Introduction:
      Highland State Recreation Area is about 15 miles west of Pontiac, off M-59. One of the newer trails in lower Southeast Michigan, It was designed and built as a handling challenge. This trail is 100% single track with many gradual climbs and descents. It is very difficult to sustain any speed because of the technical and tight nature of this trail. You will find off camber sections, roots, rocks, logs, etc. With the technical nature of this course you will have to stop, shift, turn, brake, and balance for hours, this is guaranteed to make you mentally exhausted and fatigue your upper body, rather than your legs. By the time you reach the D loop you will be listing names of people to buy your bike, and wondering how much further till its over. Once you finish the reward will settle in as you reminisce with pals about a near death experiences, and cleaning seemingly impassable sections. You will look at it as a challenge to for the next time,

       The entire trail will take 2 ½ - 3 hours so bring plenty of water and food. There are NO provisions for water here, bring what you will require and then some. There are 4 loops you can attempt, A,B,C, and D, for a total of 16 miles. B and D loops are linked to the A loop, while C loop is accessed from the B loop. This is definitely NOT a beginner course and should not be ridden alone or after dusk (without a headlamp). Keep in mind if you have a mechanical or are just too weak and sickly to finish, there are no bail spots. Once on the trail the only way back is forward, the best you can do is find your way back to A loop and return. Make sure to carry extra provisions (tubes, food, water). The state does require a parking permit, if you need one they can be purchased by filling out the envelope (with money) and placing it in the daily registration canister. We hope you will remember the Guidelines for safety and etiquette.

Note: Michigan DNR asks that you don't use trails during wet weather or during spring thaw, this will damage the trails and hurt mountain bike DNR relations.

Organizations:
Metro South Chapter of the MMBA
President: Joe Foy
Vice President: Frank Bean
More information about the MMBA mmba.org

Amenities
There is absolutely NO WATER available, on the trail or in the parking area. There is a grocery store at Duck Lake and M-59. along with gas stations restaurants, and fast foods.
The only toilet is this outhouse don't let the exterior fool you into thinking it's clean! It can get pretty ripe during the summer.

Trail Description

Alex demonstrates his "no-foot"
approach to the C loop Entrance

Plea for Responsibility: With the growing number of new Mountain bikers, trail erosion has become very evident at several popular trails (Pontiac Lake, and Poto). The weekend traffic has grown heavier and less concerned, This has taken its toll. Trails that were handling challenges, have become speedways for the out of control masses. Even Highland, which is only a few years old is showing signs of misuse, I could barely ride A and B loops in 1996, now they are easily traversed. The many chapters of MMBA do a fantastic job on maintenance and access, but as riders we should share the burden and ride sensibly. Stay in control, ride on the beaten path (avoid short cuts), and try not to destroy any vegetation.

Also, If you see someone tearing it up with total disregard for the trail and those who maintain it, SAY SOMETHING. When taking beginners on any trail, always try to teach some etiquette. You can use following the MMBA, and IMBA's Guidelines for trail etiquette.