City of Battle Creek issued the following announcement.
Breathe in the crisp air of autumn while biking on one of the area’s nature trails. Whether you only want to go a mile or two and get a beer or if you’re ready for a long ride, we have something for you.
From Riverwalk to Dark Horse
Enjoy a beer after traveling beside the Kalamazoo River on your bike.
During your ride, you can stop at viewing areas for the river. The path is lined with trees.
If you start at the Marshall Recreation Department, it takes .75 miles along the Riverwalk to get to Dark Horse Brewing Co. There’s outdoor seating in the beer garden, along with sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas.
Linear Park Trail
If you’re familiar with the North Country and Iron Belle trails, then you should know that an important piece of that is the Linear Park Trail. It is 26 miles of paved trail through Battle Creek.
It’s easy to find a parking spot along the trail, so you don’t have to bike all 26 miles. One of the most colorful rides you’ll find is at Leila Arboretum, which has a one-mile trail around the park (but be prepared for hills). There’s a variety of cultivated tree groves and gardens. The park is also home to the Fantasy Forest sculpture garden.
Calhoun County Trailway
If you want a trip through the woods, try the Calhoun County Trailway. It’ll take you through Ott Biological Park and Kimball Pines. It’s 5.6 miles long altogether and you’ll be surrounded by fall colors.
The trail doesn’t loop around, so be prepared to double back on any distance you travel. We suggest parking at Historic Bridge Park, where there’s also a playground, kayak launch and picnic tables.
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Want to take your fat tire bike out for a spin? The mountain bike trails at the Fort Custer state park are popular. The Green Loop is not for beginners. It’s going to take you through the woods around Eagle Lake. The Red Loop will give you a smoother ride, past ponds and wildlife. If you’re looking for something easier, and shorter, try the yellow or blue loop. MTBproject.com has some excellent information on all of the trails at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up