The Paint Creek Trail is well-loved and well used. I bet that most locals have been there. Here are some quick facts about the trail that you might not know.
- The Paint Creek Trail was THE FIRST non-motorized rail-to-trail in the State of Michigan.
- In 1983, 10.5 miles of railroad was purchased for $450,000. HALF of the money came from the MICHIGAN LAND TRUST (now Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund) and the OTHER HALF came from the FOUR ORIGINAL TRAILS COMMUNITIES, prorated based on mileage in each community.
- The developed portion of the Paint Creek Trail is 8.9 miles long and runs from Rochester to the Village of Lake Orion.
- 98% of the Trail is surfaced with crushed limestone, however, approximately 1/4 mile of the Trail is paved with asphalt. There are no plans to pave anymore of the trail.
- There is a Cider Mill which is known as the Paint Creek Cider Mill and it is open from April 1 through December 31 during business hours: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm. It is located near the halfway point of the Trail, at the corner of Gallagher and Orion Roads.
- You will also find near the halfway point of the Trail, the Wyndgate Golf Course, and Gatehouse Grille. They are both located west of the Trail on Gunn Road.
- In July 2010, the official Friends of the Paint Creek Trail group was launched, and on September 30, 2010, a Board of Directors and Executive Board was elected. (Visit the Friends website for further information.)
- There is a National Trails Day which is held on Saturday, June 2, 2018. According to the American Hiking Society, This year, due to the bridge construction in Oakland Township, the celebration will be held in the northern section of trail and at Children’s Park in Lake Orion.
- Horses and dogs are allowed on the trail with certain restrictions. See the website for further info.
- There are JOBS for anyone looking to become a paid part of the Paint Creek Trail system.
Now that we have the facts, here is a video which explains the interesting history of the trail. Hope you’ve enjoyed this spotlight on a gem in our community!
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