The Kal-Haven Trail in Southwest Michigan

Once a railroad line connecting nine towns between Kalamazoo and South Haven, Michigan between 1870 and 1970, the Kal-Haven Trail in Southwest Michigan is now a State Park.  The 34.5 mile Kal-Haven Trail is an active park all along its distance, even though some of the towns along this route have faded into the past. 

I began my adventure exploring the Kal-Haven Trail in Southwest Michigan last Saturday, where I parked at the 10th Street trailhead in Kalamazoo, and bicycled 3.5 miles to the first town on the map.  The trail head features a red caboose as the information center. Being that I got a late start, and I am still building my endurance on my mountain bike, this was enough for me on this 7 mile round trip. 

I must say that this trail is beautifully maintained, and is one of the best bike rides in the area.  The trail is mainly crushed limestone for a majority of the ride, and the grade is not too steep.  It passes through the backs of some residential areas, and through some fields, farmland and woods along the way.  The section I traveled was very beautiful and a nice quiet ride.

One of the things I like about this trail is the fact that there are benches along the way if you want to take a break, while either walking or riding.  There are also restrooms at very spots as well.  The trail is also well marked at each mile and 1/2 mile section of trail, so it is always easy to keep track of where you are and how far you have come. 

Farther down the trail from where I traveled are covered bridges, old plantations and even a museum at the Bloomingdale Depot which is the halfway point of the trail.  During the various seasons you can take in the colors of fields of flowers, summer honeysuckle and fall leaves along the way, depending on what time of year you go.  The trail is also open to snow mobiles with the proper Michigan permits, as well as cross country skiing.

To reach the trail at the Kalamazoo end, take Interstate 131 to Exit 38B.  Once off the exit, go to the 10th street and turn right.  Then go two miles, and the trail head parking will be on your left.  To access the South Haven trail head, take Interstate 196 to exit 20.  then take Phoenix Road West to Bailey Road. Turn Right on Bailey Road and then left onto Wells Street, and the trail head will be on your left.

Here is my self-portrait while taking a break on the Kal-Haven Trail in Southwest, Michigan.