Pontiac Lake MTB

Photo Above is from annual Pontiac Lake Turkey Roll
MTB ride, Thanksgiving Morning 2002

Welcome to Trail's Edge Outdoors
Pontiac Lake Mountain Biking Section
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WARNING: Mountain Biking is Potentially Dangerous!

Notice:
The trails are in the process of being labeled as horse-only, bike-only, or horse-bike. This is an interim change until the new master trail plan can be finalized and implemented. Please obey all trail markings and be courteous to other trail users. Some of the specific user trails cross each or combine for short distances. You may encounter hikers or equestrians (horses), BE NICE! do not run anyone over and avoid spooking the horses. Updated maps are available at the park office or on our trail description page.

Introduction
Pontiac Lake is located in southeast Michigan 11 miles from downtown Pontiac, and 38 miles from downtown Detroit. This recreation area offers more than 10 miles of novice/expert level technical mountain biking. You will encounter Roots, Rocks, and Logs all on challenging terrain. There are several tough climbs starting with the newest lung buster which leads to the overlook. this was added in 2000 to replace the old washed out climb, it also ended up being 2 times as long...uhhh! The trail is technical and sometimes a little choppy due to overuse. The climbs are leg burnings which quickly make you realize why your bike has so many gears. The downhills will make you appreciate suspension forks, good brakes, and aggressive tires. There are a few good bail points onto old dirt roads in case of emergencies, but its best to be prepared for anything. Bring water, food, tools, and tubes (a first aid kit if possible). You can ride year round, the park is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.. State land permits game hunting of all types so wear bright colors during hunting season!

Other activities include boating, camping (reservation), canoeing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, water skiing, cross-country skiing, snow mobiling. For more information contact:
Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
7800 Gale Rd., Waterford, MI - 48327
(810)-666-1020

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

Season
All year long, watch out for snowmobiles in the winter and hunters in the fall. The summer is great the humidity can be unbearable, but if you are going to sweat anyhow have fun doing it. 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".

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

Organizations
Metro North Chapter of the MMBA
President: Nick Shue
Vice President: Mike Moss

More information about the MMBA
mmba.org

A rider enjoys the NEW "Bowls" section at PLRA
Photo by Tom Lining (Visit Tom's Site)

Directions & Maps
Trail Description

2003 Work Days
Trail workdays to be announced

Amenities
At Pontiac Lake the DNR has provided clean drinking water, and clean bathrooms in the parking lot. About halfway around the trail is a water pump station, it is located just off the riding trail once you reach the campground road (paved). Turn right and head down to the small organized group parking lot on the left. Go straight through the lot and foolow the trail straight to the pump. It's really cold water too, feels great to stick your head under it on a hot summer ride.

Plea for Responsibility
Of the mountain bike trails in Lower Michigan Pontiac Lake (AKA PLRA, or Pontiac) is among the most popular. Unfortunately this means more traffic and hence more trail damage, the heavy weekend traffic of newbies has taken its toll. The trail has grown wider and studder bumps have made it rougher. The Pontiac Lake chapter 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 do not destroy 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.

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