The Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland Township Protects over 600 acres along the Macatawa River. Much of this area is low wetlands that are part of the floodplain of the river. There some reclaimed farmland and a large section of hardwoods on the western slope of the river valley. In this wooded area the Upper Macatawa Cycling Trail is being developed.

Trail building started in the fall in 2012 and right now (summer 2013) there are 1.5 miles of will planned single track competed. Much of the trail is bench cut into the sides of steep ravines. I was surprised to find a fairly technical ride with more up and down than I expected in this area. It sounds like there are plans for up to 6 miles of trails. Most of the trail is in clay and takes a long time to dry out in the spring. There are signs posted at the entrance when the trail is closed. The trail coordinator also said that it is best to give the trail at least 2 days to dry out after it rains.

This is the first trail designed specifically for mountain biking at an Ottawa County Park. Please respect others trail users and "no bikes" signs so hopefully this will be the first of many more new bike trails in the area.

See below for GoPro trail videos and a map.