Timeline for the Project
Construction of the main trail system was completed in August 2017 & the trail is NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Come ride with us!
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LocationMarkin Glen Park
5300 N. Westnedge Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49004 Markin Glen County Park was originally the estate of Morris Markin, the founder of Checker Motors corporation of Kalamazoo. The Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County was responsible for leading the fund raising drive that allowed the Westside of Markin Glen to open as a County Park in 1994, after the County acquired the property from the City of Kalamazoo. |
Project Description
The Maple Hill Trail is a project of Kalamazoo County Parks and the Southwest Michigan Mountain Biking Association (SWMMBA). The approximately 5.5 mile mountain bike specific trail will be located on the west side of Markin Glen Park and utilize approximately 80 acres of undeveloped park property. This trail is intended to provide a bicycle riding area for the public designed for cyclists of all ages and skill levels – beginner through advanced. This trail system complements the existing Kalamazoo River Valley Trail (KRVT) and together will further enhance the bicycling recreation and fitness communities. While the KRVT provides a wide, paved multi-use trail through the greater Kalamazoo Valley area, the Maple Hill Trail will provide a natural surface, single-track experience for mountain bikers looking for more challenge and effort. Connectivity between the two trail systems will exist within the Markin Glen County Park which further enhances the accessibility of the Maple Hill Trail and will encourage frequent park visits.
Trail Design
SWMMBA has over 25 years of trail building experience and will work with professional trail builder during the construction phase of the trail. This mountain bike trail will be approximately 5.5 miles in length and feature many elevation transitions due to the geological lay of the park. This trail is also designed to allow bi-directional riding to increase the rider experience. Throughout the design and build process, rider safety is of utmost concern and a signage and by-pass plan will be put in place before the trail is opened to the public.
Gallery
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