Novi Tree Farm, Michigan - mountain bike trails

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Novi Tree Farm mountain biking guide

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WARNING: Mountain Biking is Potentially Dangerous!

Introduction
Lakeshore Pakr (formerly known as the Tree Farm) has was a project trail for several years and is now a fun exciting trail for everyone from the beginner to the expert. With around 10 miles of single track the MMBA has re-biult this trail system after much of it was plowed over in 2001. Working closely with the city it was a joint effort to re-develop and make the park a great destination trail system. Many people will even say the trails are better today than prior to 2001. We now have more fun, and safer trails...as well as a stronger working relationship withthe City of Novi. With this said, The tree farm is on a 400-acre parcel bought by the City of Novi, complete with XC Ski, hiking, and biking trails. The park also has a playground, pavilions, and soccer field.

The MTB trail follows the yellow arrows and is mostly singletrack with a few small areas that utilize some wide XC Ski/'hiking trails. You'll find some twisty single track through the dense hardwoods and abandoned evergreen orchards. As well as several log piles, rock gardens and "The Crater" all of these features have by-passes for the beginnner as well. As of 2004 the Boy Scouts have even added some new bridges and the city has made some great new maps signs throughout the park.

Hunting is not permitted, making the Tree Farm a great place to ride in the fall and winter. Never really considered a technical trail the "New Improved" tree farm adds several log crossings, a rather tough "rock garden, and a few other natural features to elevate your riding level. Many of these sections have a bi-pass as well. Access is through Lakeshore Park, parking is free between Labor Day and Memorial Day. The rest of the year non-residents mut pay a small fee. There is a regular weekely group MTB ride every Tuesday at 6:30 PM for all levels of riders. The weekly group ride is a safe fun way to learn the trail system. It is no Drop (which means no one gets left behind) and runs all year long. The group ride is organized every week by the "Team Tree Farm" group.

Click HERE For current weather conditions and the five day weather forecast.

Season
All year long. The spring and fall are the best times to visit the tree farm. Summer can be hot and the area has several nearby lakes and swamps = mosquitos. Temps are usually in the high 70's & 80's. Wear bright breathable clothing, bring some form of bug repellent and as Dr. Lisa always says "Wear Sunscreen".

Amenities
The park has modern bathroom facilities, (2) play structures for the kids, a soccer field, and (2) covered pavilion. Running water can be found at the bathrooms in season. The bathrooms close during the winter.

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

Directions & Maps

Carlos, Jeff, Bob, Kevin, Scott,and Lucy the dog
pose after cutting the Pines section circa 2001. Photo taken by Myself

Edward, Chris and Dave (MMBA Novi Trail Coordinator) take a break
during a fall workday

Support The MMBA

Plea for Responsibility: With the growing number of new Mountain bikers, trail erosion has become very evident at several popular trails. 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 somthing. 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.