melvin family hiking and biking trails
All dogs must be on a leash!
And please clean up after your pooches while using the trails. Learn More
Size
150 acres
Land Description
Nearly all forested rolling terrain dominated by oak, beech trees, aspen and regenerating red maple in the understory. Western sections have pockets of red pine. Mullet Lake can be seen from a ridge on the east side. The reserve includes approximately 650ft of frontage on Bennett Road.
History
Generations of the Melvin family have loved Burt Lake and the work of Little Traverse Conservancy. When Mark Melvin discovered the 150-acre parcel tucked in between Burt and Mullett lakes for sale, he had a vision of creating mountain bike trails. His daughter Kathleen had recently introduced him to mountain biking, and he discovered that this part of northeastern lower Michigan could benefit from trails. His vision was to not only protect land, but to include enhanced outdoor recreation for the community. A total of 128 donors joined Mark to make the vision come true.
Trail Description
A total of 8.5 miles were designed and constructed by Rock Solid Contracting, LLC, one of the highest quality mountain bike trail building companies in the country. The Melvin Family Hiking and Biking Trails include: 1} Opportunities for all skill levels; 2) Unique trail features like gravity trails, sidewinder segments; 3) skills features, rollers, berms, and more! NOTES: The trails are currently closed to e-bikes as we collect initial use data and monitor the durability of the trail. This reserve is open to bow hunting only.
Directions
ADDRESS: 3151 Bennett Road, Topinabee From Indian River, head north on S Straits Hwy for 2.8 miles, continue north on M-27N for 2.5 miles, turn left onto Beeson Street which quickly turns into Bennett Rd and continue for 1.4 miles. The property's main entrance is on your left.