McDonald Lake loop from Yankee Springs Recreation Area
McDonald Lake loop from Yankee Springs Recreation Area
4.8
(5108)
9,019
riders
00:55
10.7km
110m
Mountain biking
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 4.35 km for 199 m
After 4.62 km for 102 m
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.83 km
1.12 km
685 m
Surfaces
8.69 km
1.12 km
731 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (290 m)
Lowest point (230 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 25 June
23°C
15°C
51 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a straightforward and enjoyable mountain biking experience in Michigan, the McDonald Lake loop from Yankee Springs Recreation Area is a solid choice. This easy 6.6-mile (10.7 km) mountain biking route, with a modest 353 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 54 minutes, making it perfect for a quick ride or a gentle introduction to the area's trails.
What to expect on McDonald Lake loop from Yankee Springs Recreation Area
The route winds through classic Michigan landscapes, offering a pleasant journey past McDonald Lake and through diverse hardwood forests and wetlands. While the broader Yankee Springs Recreation Area is known for more rugged terrain, this specific McDonald Lake loop provides a more accessible ride. You'll encounter rolling terrain with varied elevation, but without the extreme technical features found elsewhere in the park. Expect a mix of surfaces, including singletrack, with some natural obstacles like roots and occasional sandy patches, but nothing overly challenging for an easy-rated trail.
Planning your visit
The trails at Yankee Springs are known for shedding water well, meaning they can often be ridden even after rain, though heavy downpours or spring thaw can lead to muddy conditions. Optimal riding conditions typically span from late spring through fall. It's important to note that the mountain biking trails in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area are directional, with the direction changing daily, so be sure to check the current flow before you head out.
Trail details
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