Find Michigan’s First Rail-to-Trail Adventure
The Paint Creek Trail is Michigan’s first rail-to-trail conversion, offering 8.9 miles of scenic outdoor recreation through northeast Oakland County. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning jog, a weekend bike ride, or a place to walk your dog, this National Recreation Trail delivers year-round access to nature just outside Detroit.
Quick Facts About Paint Creek Trail:
- Length: 8.9 miles (14.3 km)
- Surface: Crushed limestone (8 feet wide) with a 1/4-mile paved section
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, year-round
- Activities: Biking, hiking, jogging, horseback riding, cross-country skiing
- Location: Connects Lake Orion, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, and Orion Township
- Trail Type: Non-motorized, gentle grade (2% slope)
- Visitors: Over 100,000 annually
This historic trail opened in 1983 on a former railroad corridor. It follows Paint Creek, a designated trout stream, through beautiful natural scenery. The trail earned National Recreation Trail status in 2006 and became a Pure Michigan Trail in 2023.
For traveling professionals like nurses on extended assignments, the Paint Creek Trail offers an easy escape into nature without leaving the metro area. You can bike the full trail in about an hour or take a leisurely 3-hour walk while your dog explores on leash. The crushed limestone surface works well for most bikes, though all-terrain tires make the ride smoother.
An In-Depth Guide to the Paint Creek Trail
The Paint Creek Trail offers 8.9 miles of natural beauty that feels worlds away from city life, even though it’s right in Oakland County’s backyard. As you walk or bike the crushed limestone path, you’ll follow Paint Creek—a designated trout stream—through lush greenery, wetlands, and woodlands where you might spot deer or herons. This linear park connects communities while protecting a vital natural corridor. If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures in the area, discover Detroit’s great outdoors for additional trail options.
From Railroad to Recreation: A Historic Journey
As Michigan’s first rail-to-trail conversion, the Paint Creek Trail opened in 1983, pioneering a movement across the state. The original rail line dates to 1872, serving as a busy corridor for the Michigan Central and later Penn Central Railroads. The community purchased the right-of-way, changing it from a path for trains to one for cyclists, runners, and walkers. Along the trail, historical markers tell stories of its railroad past, while the Prairie Restoration Art Project highlights the area’s restored native ecosystems. In 1999, it received the Millennium Legacy Trail designation, recognizing its role in the Southeast Michigan Greenways Trail concept. You can learn more about the trail’s background at the official Paint Creek Trail website.
Trail Specs: Length, Surface, and Scenery
The Paint Creek Trail stretches 8.9 miles from Lake Orion to Rochester with a consistent 8-foot width. Most of the trail is crushed limestone, which is firm enough for most bikes but comfortable for walking. A quarter-mile paved asphalt section is at the northern end in Lake Orion. The elevation change is minimal, with a gentle 2% grade that makes it accessible for all ages and abilities.
Drawing over 100,000 visitors annually, the trail follows Paint Creek through a protected corridor of diverse habitats. You’ll pass through meadows with native prairie plants and dense woodlands. The scenery is beautiful year-round: spring brings wildflowers, summer offers a shaded canopy, fall features brilliant colors, and winter is perfect for cross-country skiing.
Planning Your Adventure on the Trail
The Paint Creek Trail offers something for everyone, from cyclists and runners to families looking for a peaceful walk. The trail is wonderfully versatile for activities. Biking and jogging are popular, and horseback riding is allowed on the northern section. When winter arrives, the trail transforms into a beautiful route for cross-country skiing. The diverse ecosystem also makes it fantastic for bird watching, geocaching, and fishing in the designated trout stream. If you’re planning to explore more on two wheels, check out our guide to the Top 10 Bike Trails of Detroit to find even more great routes.
Rules, Regulations, and Hours for the Paint Creek Trail
To keep the trail safe and enjoyable, please follow these guidelines. The trail is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., year-round. Pets are welcome but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, and owners must clean up after them. Trail etiquette is simple: travel on the right and announce “On your left!” when passing. The trail is strictly non-motorized. Horseback riding is permitted only on the section north of Dutton Road. Before fishing in Paint Creek, check with the Michigan DNR for current regulations.
Amenities and Accessibility Features
The Paint Creek Trail is designed for comfort and convenience. Parking lots are available at various access points along the route. You’ll also find benches and picnic tables at scenic spots. Restrooms and water fountains are typically available in nearby parks and businesses in the towns along the trail.
For accessibility, the northern end in Lake Orion has two designated accessible, van-accessible parking spaces. The trail’s gentle 2-3% grade and 8-foot width make it manageable for wheelchairs and strollers, though all-terrain tires are recommended for the crushed limestone surface. Key access points with parking include Lake Orion (northern end), Orion Township, Oakland Township (near Goodison), Rochester Hills, and downtown Rochester (southern end).
A Trail of Distinction: Awards and Management
The Paint Creek Trail is a nationally recognized treasure, earning prestigious accolades for its contributions to outdoor recreation. In 2006, it was designated a National Recreation Trail (NRT) by the U.S. Department of the Interior for meeting high standards of quality and accessibility. This honor makes it part of a national network and provides access to technical assistance and funding. You can learn more about its NRT status here: Learn about its National Recreation Trail status
Adding to its honors, the trail was designated a Pure Michigan Trail in 2023. This recognition highlights it as a prime example of Michigan’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The successful operation of the Paint Creek Trail is thanks to the Paint Creek Trailways Commission (PCTC), an intergovernmental agency responsible for its management and maintenance, ensuring it remains a vital resource for over 100,000 annual visitors.
Connecting with the Paint Creek Trail Commission
The trail is managed by the Paint Creek Trailways Commission (PCTC), an intergovernmental agency with representatives from the local communities. The PCTC holds public meetings, typically on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. For the most up-to-date schedule and locations, check the official Paint Creek Trail website. To get a free map and guide, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:
Paint Creek Trailways Commission
4393 Collins Road
Rochester, MI 48306
The PCTC’s work, along with volunteers, makes the trail a beloved resource. Exploring local resources like the PCTC can also lead to finding community activities, such as those promoted by local Detroit Running Clubs.
Exploring Beyond the Trail: Connections and Attractions
One of the most wonderful aspects of the Paint Creek Trail is how it serves as a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the entire region. This isn’t just an isolated path through the woods—it’s woven into the fabric of northeast Oakland County, connecting vibrant communities and leading us to even more outdoor adventures.
As we travel the trail’s 8.9 miles, we pass through five distinct communities, each with its own personality and attractions. At the northern end, we find ourselves in the charming Village of Lake Orion, where the trail meets small-town hospitality and lakeside beauty. Moving south, we journey through Orion Township and Oakland Township, where the historic hamlet of Goodison offers a glimpse into Michigan’s past. The trail then winds through Rochester Hills before reaching its southern terminus in downtown Rochester, a delightful destination brimming with local restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques. After a morning on the trail, there’s nothing quite like strolling through Rochester’s tree-lined streets or grabbing lunch at one of its many inviting eateries.
But the adventure doesn’t have to end where the Paint Creek Trail does. At the southern end in Rochester, the trail connects seamlessly with the Rochester River Walk, extending our journey along the scenic riverfront. This connection opens up even more miles of beautiful pathways to explore. For those of us who love long rides or walks, the trail also links to The Clinton River Trail, creating an extensive network of greenways that can keep us busy for hours—or even days if we’re ambitious!
Nature lovers will be thrilled to know that the trail passes near the Bald Mountain Recreation Area, one of Michigan’s treasured natural preserves. This sprawling area offers everything from rugged hiking trails to peaceful fishing spots, giving us countless ways to extend our outdoor experience. Whether we’re bird watching, geocaching, or simply enjoying the diverse landscapes, the connections from the Paint Creek Trail make it easy to craft the perfect day—or weekend—in nature.
For those of us planning a longer stay in the Detroit area, these interconnected trails and parks create endless possibilities for exploration. We can easily spend weeks finding new routes and hidden gems. To help plan your adventures, we’ve put together guides on other fantastic nearby trails like the Macomb Orchard Bike, Running and Walking Trail. And if you’re looking for even more green spaces to explore throughout the region, our comprehensive guide to the Best Parks to Visit in Detroit: Top 15 Amazing Green Spaces is a must-read.
The Paint Creek Trail truly is more than just a trail—it’s a doorway to experiencing the best of what Michigan has to offer, from charming small towns to expansive natural areas, all connected by paths that invite us to keep exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Paint Creek Trail
Planning your visit to the Paint Creek Trail? Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you prepare for your adventure on Michigan’s first rail-to-trail.
How long does it take to bike or walk the Paint Creek Trail?
The time it takes to complete the 8.9-mile Paint Creek Trail depends on your pace and activity.
- Walking or Running: Plan on about 3 hours to cover the full length one-way at a comfortable pace. A round trip is a solid 6-hour adventure.
- Biking: Most cyclists complete the 8.9-mile route in 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on speed and stops.
The trail’s gentle grade means you won’t face challenging climbs, allowing you to enjoy the journey at your own pace.
Is the Paint Creek Trail suitable for all types of bikes?
While most bikes can be used, your experience will vary based on tire type due to the crushed limestone surface.
- Recommended: Bikes with wider, all-terrain tires (mountain, hybrid, or gravel bikes) provide the best traction and a smoother ride.
- Challenging: Traditional road bikes with thin, smooth tires may find the surface difficult. Road bikes with wider tires (28mm or more) will fare better.
The trail’s gentle grade is manageable for any bike type, and electric bikes are also welcome.
Are dogs allowed on the Paint Creek Trail?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Paint Creek Trail. To ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone, please follow these simple rules:
- Keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
- Clean up after your pet. Please bring waste bags and dispose of them properly.
Following these guidelines helps keep the trail clean and welcoming for all visitors.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about the Paint Creek Trail. As Michigan’s very first rail-to-trail conversion, it represents more than just a path through the woods—it’s a testament to what communities can accomplish when they preserve natural spaces for everyone to enjoy. Over the past four decades since opening in 1983, this 8.9-mile treasure has welcomed millions of visitors, each finding their own connection to its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
From early morning joggers catching the sunrise over Paint Creek to families spending sunny afternoons exploring on bikes, the trail continues to bring people together in the outdoors. Its recognition as both a National Recreation Trail and a Pure Michigan Trail confirms what locals have known all along: this is one of the finest places in southeast Michigan to experience nature without leaving the metro area.
The gentle crushed limestone path makes it easy for almost anyone to enjoy, whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a quick workout or someone simply wanting a peaceful walk with your dog. The trail’s thoughtful design and year-round accessibility mean there’s always a perfect time to visit, from vibrant autumn colors to quiet winter snowscapes.
For traveling professionals staying in the Detroit area—nurses on assignment, consultants on extended projects, or anyone needing a temporary home—having access to places like the Paint Creek Trail transforms a work trip into an opportunity for genuine exploration and rejuvenation. After spending your day finding the trail’s historic markers, watching for wildlife along the creek, or connecting to nearby paths like the Clinton River Trail, you’ll appreciate coming back to a comfortable, fully-equipped space that truly feels like home.
That’s exactly what we provide at Detroit Furnished Rentals. Our centrally located apartments give you the perfect home base for exploring Detroit’s incredible network of trails and green spaces. Whether you’re here for a few weeks or several months, you’ll have everything you need to relax after your outdoor adventures—comfortable furniture, full kitchens, and yes, pet-friendly options so your four-legged hiking companion can join you.
The Paint Creek Trail awaits, offering its quiet beauty and endless possibilities just a short drive from the city. And when you’re ready to return from your adventures, we’ll have a welcoming space ready for you.
Explore Detroit’s biking and running paths from your perfect rental
