Proud Lake Campground Trail and Hickory Glen Connector

You can typically park at the Proud Lake Recreation Area campground itself, which serves as a central access point for many trails. For the Hickory Glen Connector, parking is also available at the Hickory Glen park area, which links to the connector trail.

Yes, the Proud Lake Recreation Area, including this route, is generally dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

Spring is particularly beautiful for wildflowers like hepatica, marsh marigold, and violets, and to hear spring peepers. Fall offers vibrant foliage. While generally accessible year-round, be prepared for mud, especially near water bodies, and potential flooding in spring. Winter hiking is possible but may require ice cleats.

Yes, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Proud Lake State Recreation Area. This can be purchased annually when renewing your license plate or at the park entrance.

The route winds through diverse landscapes shaped by glaciers, featuring rolling terrain, dense hardwood forests, and expansive wetlands. You'll experience riverside paths along the Huron River, and the Hickory Glen Connector section is a 'fast and flowing' singletrack through wooded areas. Expect well-maintained boardwalks in wetland sections.

Yes, you'll encounter diverse habitats, including wetlands that are particularly vibrant with wildflowers in spring. The route also features a Wooden boardwalk, which helps navigate wetter areas and offers unique views. The Huron River is a central scenic feature, and from the campground, you can often get good views of Proud Lake itself.

Yes, this route integrates sections of several other trails. You will hike along parts of the Lakes Community Trail, the Chief Pontiac Trail Conventional Hike, and significant portions of the Hickory Glen Connector. It also uses the MTB connector (#6-#7) (Campground Trail).

This hike is rated as moderate. While many trails in Proud Lake Recreation Area are easy-going with minimal elevation changes, this combined route covers a longer distance (12.7 km) and includes varied terrain. The Hickory Glen Connector section is generally easy to intermediate, featuring winding singletrack. Be prepared for potentially muddy or flooded sections, especially after rain.

The overall length and moderate difficulty might be challenging for very young children. However, sections of the Proud Lake Recreation Area offer shorter, easier loops suitable for families, such as the 1.25-mile Marsh Trail. Families could consider hiking only parts of this longer route, particularly the flatter sections accessible from the campground.

If you're looking to hike soon after a rainstorm, the Hickory Glen Connector trail system is known for being one of the fastest trails to dry out. This can be a significant advantage for avoiding excessive mud compared to other trails in the area.

Yes, the trail can be hiked in winter. However, be prepared for cold conditions, potential snow, and ice. Sections near water bodies can become very muddy or icy, so carrying ice cleats is advisable for better traction.