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Hanson Hills Bike Trail
8 reviews
4 of 5
The trail is fairly new, it has some nice singletrack and really great downhills. It is a pretty short loop, not more than 4 miles.
Get off I-75 at the Four Mile Road Exit, take 4 Mile Rd. west to intersestion at Military Rd., turn left and a few miles ahead is M93, turn left there and withhin 2 miles you will see a big sign for Hanson Hills Ski Park on your left.
Summary: I spent a weekend in this area and rode several different trail systems. Hanson Hills was easy to find and the trail was VERY well marked (once I found the MTB system, see below). It's impossible to get lost here. MMBA has done a great job with signage.
That said, the trail is rather boring. Yes, there are some climbs, but overall it's not too technically challenging. After about five miles I was thinking, "Okay, had enough, where's my car?".
I have since learned that local riders familiar with the trail know of several unmarked loops that promise a better ride, but as a visitor I stick with the map and the signs. If the facility has more and better trails to offer, put them on the map!
Recommended Route: Take M-93 southwest out of Gaylord. You'll see a huge Hanson Hills sign a few miles out of town. Once in the parking lot, the trailhead starts next to the red building next to the pond (not the main ski lodge). Building has a MMBA sign hanging in the window. Follow the trail around to the right, staying on the wide section, about 1/2 mile until you come to a clearing. The well-marked MTB trail seems to start there, really. You'll see the sign.
Other recommended trails in the same area: Boyne Mountain, Aspen Park (Gaylord), Hanson Hills, Shingle Mill Pathway. Recommend in that order. Shingle Mill definitely not worth the effort to get there, if you ask me.
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Summary: I am writting this to update the reviews. It is now a 10 mile loop that is fast flowing and well maintained. Much of it is single track with a few climbs that are not too draining. The last mile has some fun downhill. Very fun, fun ride that everyone should try. Also there is a mogul that splits two trees that should be marked on the downside of a fast hill---if it isn't then god bless!
Recommended Route: enter the trailhead at the parking lot and always stay left.
Other recommended trails in the same area: get to Alpena/ossineke area and ride Chippewa Hills
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Summary: Just raced at Hanson this weekend. The trail is very nice - especially the new singletrack. It is now 8.5 miles in length, with most of the two track being replaced by new singletrack.
There are some nice climbs and some FAST downhill sections (short and smooth - don't want to get the DH guys excited).
If you haven't ridden it this year, take another look.
Recommended Route: Counter-clockwise fron ski hill parking lot.
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Review Date April 23, 2002
Overall Rating 5 of 5
Ridden Trail: Every few months
Reviewed by: DanO
, from Midland, MI
Summary: Great trail! long steady uphills followed by some fun downhills. not a very technical ride, but still very fun. great trail for the whole family. Very hard to find though, it is somewhat of a secret trail in the area. to get to the trail once you are at Hanson Hills, get on the main 2-track and start off taking the path furthest to the right, and a sandy 2-track should lead you to the trail. About 6 miles in length because more trail has been added recently. At the top of a large hill, the trail splits in 2, take the left for the 6 mile loop and right trail for the 4 mile loop. Fun ride and a great workout. The trail is marked with small white diamonds on various trees, just follow those and you should be all set. Have fun riding!
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Review Date June 29, 2001
Overall Rating 3 of 5
Ridden Trail: Ridden Once
Reviewed by: Ted Schlaack
, from McKinney, Texas
Summary: I rode this trail for the first time a few weeks ago while on vacation at my parents. A4.5 mile loop with a couple of long but smooth and graduated climbs. It also has some sandy, single track and sandy downhills. This is that breakaway type of deceiving sand. You know the type that appears to be solid until you stand out of the saddle and spin out. My daughter and I raced the FUN Promotions race on June 3 and had a ball. A very pretty Michigan trail, unlike some of the Texas trails that are challenging but not as scenic. This is a great beginner trail with a wide single track and no technical areas at all. Short, Easy but fun! Thanks for all of the Michigan hospitality, and when in Dallas check out "The Breaks at Bar H or Erwin Park! Three Flamers
Recommended Route: I 75 to Grayling M72 then go ask someone. Because I will get you lost
Other recommended trails in the same area: Sorry all I can rate is Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston Texas.
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