Avalanche Preserve

Wilson Street Trail: A Dynamic Blend of Climbs and Descents in Boyne City, Michigan

Quick Facts

• Distance: 6 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• Location: Boyne City, Michigan

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Boyne City, the Wilson Street Trail offers riders an intermediate-level course that truly tests both uphill stamina and downhill skills. This trail combines all the elements you'd seek: dynamic terrains, rewarding viewpoints, and just enough technical challenges to keep you engaged.

How to Get There

To start your adventure, head to 1129 Wilson Street in Boyne City. With a large parking lot, it's hard to miss. The trail kicks off to the east of this parking area.

Trail Experience: What to Anticipate

Starting Slow and Ramping Up

Initially, Wilson Street Trail lures you in with relatively flat terrain interspersed with minor elevation changes and gentle twists. However, don't let this serene start fool you; a challenging climb awaits after the first mile. The trail features a mix of moderate inclines that'll get your heart pounding, punctuated by flat zones and minor descents.

The Summit and Technical Challenges

Once conquering the climb, do yourself a favor and soak in the magnificent views of Lake Charlevoix. It's also here that the trail presents one or two short but intricate technical challenges. A few roots and rocks await, requiring finesse and skill.

The Rewarding Descent

The last half-mile of the trail promises an enjoyable downhill ride, featuring various twists and turns. While the descent isn't exceedingly steep, be prepared to feather your brakes as the winding nature of the trail demands it.

Amenities and Trail Conditions

• Facilities: Public restrooms are available at the trailhead.
• Winter Riding: Fat biking is allowed, and the trails are groomed.
• Night Riding: Allowed for those who prefer nocturnal adventures.
• Maintenance: The trail is generally in good shape, although recent wind storms have left some fallen trees and leaves.

Additional Tips and Warnings

• Be cautious when going downhill due to the multi-directional nature of the trail.
• The trail markings could be improved; pay close attention to avoid getting lost.
• There are some soft spots on the edges of the path, so maintain your line to avoid any spills.

Final Thoughts

The Wilson Street Trail is a fulfilling 6-mile loop that offers a bit of everything: challenging climbs, exhilarating descents, and beautiful vistas. While the trail could benefit from clearer markings, the sense of adventure it offers, along with the quality of the ride, makes it a worthy pick for any mountain biker looking for an engaging workout.