Lake County: Trails, Lakes and Culture

In Lake County, trails differ in both their layout and seasonal use. The Pine Valley Pathway north of Baldwin is 8.3 miles long and consists of three interconnected loops. Its middle loop follows a wooded, non-motorized trail for 4.1 miles to Lost Lake and back. In winter, all 8.3 miles are groomed for cross-country skiing; grooming depends on winter conditions. Hiking one loop and cross-country skiing the entire trail are therefore different ways to experience the area. Since trail conditions can vary seasonally, check them before setting out.

Trails and Scenery

In southern Lake County, a raised boardwalk crosses the marshland of Sterling Marsh for 1½ miles. There is a parking area and an information kiosk at its own trailhead. Seasonal road access may vary; check before driving. Another scenic landmark is Big Star Lake, in the southwestern part of the county. It covers 912 acres and is the largest lake in Lake County.

Routes with Different Highlights

The 30-mile Pere Marquette Rail Trail is paved, level and scenic. Its northern section runs from Reed City to Baldwin along US 10 and through Idlewild. Compared with the interconnected loops of the Pine Valley Pathway, this route description offers guidance between two places; check trail conditions before your trip. A 7.5-mile section of the NCT in Lake County runs from the crossing at 16 Mile Road to the 76th Street Trailhead.

Lake County has more than 300 miles of trails across four trail systems. Trailheads include parking lots and staging areas. Two State Forest Campgrounds also provide specific starting points for outdoor activities: both camping areas at Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground provide access to the Sheep Ranch Pathway. Silver Creek State Forest Campground has an unimproved boat launch accessible from the parking lot, providing river access for fishing and paddling.

Idlewild: Art and History

Idlewild About Art is a free, self-guided outdoor tour of art and history throughout the community. You can take the tour on foot, by bicycle or by car; along the way, there are views of Idlewild Lake. The Lake County Historical Museum gives visitors the opportunity to experience the region’s history and cultural heritage firsthand.

The Community House hosts free monthly programs on a range of topics, including memories of Big Star Lake and stories about Idlewild. If you’re interested in one of these topics, check the current events calendar before visiting.

Summer Dates and Local Gatherings

Troutarama is a four-day summer festival in Baldwin, held every July. The program includes rides, competitions, live music, vendor booths and community events for all ages. Exact dates and programming vary from year to year, so plan around the current festival dates.

The seasonal outdoor market Pure Markette is also held in Baldwin. There, you can meet farmers, food producers, makers and artisans from Michigan. Dates vary by year, and offerings depend on vendor availability. Along with the July festival, the market offers a different reason to visit: it focuses on local food and crafts, while the festival features a multi-day program of events.

Discover more destinations: Township of Branch, Baldwin, Luce County, Iron County, Isabella, Mecosta County, Schoolcraft County, Crawford County.

For the broader travel overview: Michigan.