10/26/23 - WCSG Travelin' Together Series - Waterloo State Rec Area / Bonfyre Trail Fest

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Waterloo State Recreation Area - largest park in lower Michigan - image: shoreline visitors guide

Posted by: Becky Carlson | Thursday, October 26th, 2023 ( 6:00am)

Waterloo Recreation Area is the largest park in the Lower Peninsula.

At more than 20,000 acres, the park boasts two modern campgrounds, a rustic campground, an equestrian campground, a swimming beach, several picnic sites, 11 excellent fishing lakes, eight boat launches, 12 miles of interpretive nature trails, 47 miles of hiking trails, three rustic cabins, numerous equestrian trails and the Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center.

The Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, located on Bush Road and is open year-round. It introduces visitors of all ages to the world of geology and the diverse natural wonders found at the Waterloo Recreation Area. Groups can schedule a guided experience by calling 734-475-3170. The center is located on Bush Road between Pierce and McClure roads in Chelsea. To get there, take I-94 to exit 157 (Pierce Road) and go north to Bush Road. Take Bush Road west to the center. The center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday and closed Mondays except for Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

A variety of trails are available for hiking, skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding and nature study can be found in the recreation area. The Trails of Waterloo's Discovery Center can help guide your exploration of all the natural features to be found.

Waterloo-Bicycle Trails Trail Length: 5.00 (Miles)Mountain Biking

Waterloo-Bridle Trails Trail Length: 12.00 (Miles)Equestrian

Waterloo-Discovery Center Trail Trail Length: 14.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Waterloo-Dry Marsh Trail Length: 0.50 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Waterloo-Hickory Hills Trail Length: 1.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Waterloo-Pinckney Trail Trail Length: 22.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

-Mountain Biking trails can be accessed from Katz and Glenn roads.

-Cross country ski trails start at the Discovery Center. Trails are not groomed

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*The 2023 Bonfyre Trail Fest! ,  November 4, 2023 for a day of trail running and hiking at the DTE Energy Foundation Trail in Waterloo State Recreation Area. Race distances of 5M, 10M, and 18M. Stick around post-run for a roaring bonfire, live music, and s'mores! Sign up at https://runningfitevents.redpodium.com/2023-bonfyre-trail...

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