One of the most popular trails in the Hartwick Pines area, the Old Growth Forest Trail is an accessible, 1.25-mile paved trail loop that takes visitors through 49 acres of remaining old-growth forest and past many unique buildings. The towering pine trees, 360-410 years old, reach heights of over 160 feet, and walking along the trail visitors are taken back to a time when much of northern Michigan was dominated by old-growth pine forests. Although the famous "Monarch" is no longer living, there are individual white pines that rival the Monarch in size, age and beauty. The trail guides visitors past the Hartwick Pines Visitor Center, Logging Museum, Chapel of the Pines, Memorial Building and day-use picnic area. It can be accessed from multiple points along the route, including a short, quarter-mile walk from the visitor center. The trail is open to hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. While the trail is not groomed, the snow is typically packed down due to high use. The visitor center parking lot is plowed in the winter and can be accessed year-round, along with restrooms.
Please note that there is no biking allowed on the Old Growth Trail.
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