Introduction:
At first glance Paint Creek Trail seems to be a flat, straight line between Lake Orion, MI and Rochester, MI. Once on the trail you will notice the pleasant, natural feel the trail surrounding have to offer. Banked by the Clinton river this crushed limestone trail is 8.4 miles from Rochester to Lake Orion. The trail has an extremely slight incline as you head towards Lake Orion. There are several fun and interesting stops along the way, and even some real challenges.
First is the large park at the trails head in Rochester, complete with pond, ducks, river, shelter, playgrounds, and facilities. Along the trail there are several small nature trails, which branch off to access the river or take you off the main trail. There are also several benches along the way to sit relax and enjoy. The raspberry bushes along the trail add can add some flavor to your ride, or you can hit the ice cream stand in Lake Orion.
If you are looking for a challenge try your luck on Dutton Hill…Along the trail you will cross "Dutton Road" head across the river (east) on Dutton and you will soon see the Dutton Hill Climb. This climb is long, steep and oh yea…long! A frequent training ground for many local mountain bike racers this hill will leave you gasping with cramped legs and empty lungs.

Paint Creek Trail is enjoyed by walkers, anglers (fishermen), cyclist, runners, XC-skiers, and equestrians. There is also a little known speed limit on the trail…Please keep this in mind when using the trail. The other benefit of Paint Creek Trail is that it is located in the center of 3 very good mountain bike trails and parks. Stony Creek Metropark, Bloomer Park, and Bald Mountain all offer outdoor recreation as well.

Feeling adventurous? There are additional trails, which run south of Rochester and through Bloomer Park. This section of trail is accessible via roads and walkways. To get to Yates is a little tricky so make sure you have time and supplies to find you way the first few times. Starting at the city park in Rochester head out to the trail and turn right (East). Follow this to where the trail turns to concrete and goes under the main street bridge. The trail will follow the creek to University Rd., turn left and head uphill to Elizabeth street. Turn Right onto Elizabeth Street and continue to 2nd street, go left till you locate a path heading off to your right. Follow the path, which will lead rail road track, cross the tracks and continue on the path. Cross the wooden bridge and go straight on the trail to the end. The will get you to 23 mile rd. go all the way to the fence, find a faint trail to the left of the river and locate the opening in the fence (this has been know to get closed up occasionally). If this works you should be able to go over the bridge and see Yates Cider Mill across the street. The trail continues past Yates (just behind it) for another mile or more.

NOTE:
Please be aware of your surroundings, the trail crosses roads in several places. look for automobile traffic and be cautious of other trail users. The crowds on weekends tends to be larger the closer you are to Rochester.

Season
All year long, The trail doesn't actually close, but the park in Rochester has limited hours of use. The summer is great temps are usually in the high 70's & 80's. Wear bright breathable clothing, bring water, tubes, tools, pump, and any food or supplies you might need.Don't forget Dr. Lisa always says "Wear Sunscreen".

Amenities:
Load up on water and food before you get on the trail because there isn't much available once you on the trail. Toilets in the Rochester city park are not always open so think ahead before trying to ride the trail. No facilities exist along the way.

Directions

Considerations:
There are a large number of enthusiast using these paved paths, from joggers, walker, bikers, inline skaters. Since the paths are designed and built as Multi-use trails, all trail users should be considerate. Remember to keep you speed in check, don't spook other trail users or wildlife, and pay attention to your surroundings. As enthusiasts we should all share the burden and use the paths sensibly. Stay in control, and on the beaten path (avoid short cuts), do not to destroy vegetation, and always throw trash in the garbage cans.