Big M Recreation Area
Why it’s great trail for seasoned backpacker/hiker…
Not really considered an overnight camping destination , however, with 10+ joint loops, the opportunities are nearly endless to create a complete day in the woods. The terrain varies from easy to difficult.
Why it’s great trail for mountain biking/winter fat tire biking…
Known as one of the top biking destinations in the lower peninsula, the Big-M Recreation area is known for the outer loop. A 25-mile one way single track loop. The Big-M also features one of the area’s first groomed FAT tire/winter single track.
Why it’s a great trail for the Cross Country Skier…
With 18+ miles of groomed Nordic (classic) skiing, along three difficulty levels of trails (easy, moderate and advanced) this terrain is perfect for the winter sports enthusiast. There is also the warming shelter, which is frequently open, so join your fellow winter sports enthusiasts and enjoy a break and share stories.
Trail Description
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Amenities/Quick Look:
- Natural/Hard Pack Surface (warm months)
- Groomed Classic Nordic Skiing (winter months)
- Groomed Fat Tire Loop (winter months)
- Information Station
- Trail Markers/Maps
- Warming Shelter
- Fire Ring
- Fee for parking
Trailhead Locations
Trailhead - Big M Recreation Area
Trailhead - Udell Trailhead

Unplug. Explore. Michigan's Great Outdoors.
The Michigan's Great Outdoors collaborative consists of five Northern Michigan counties all working together to promote tourism in the region. With so many hiking, biking, winter sports, and ORV trails in the region that dynamically connect these counties, this site is devoted to educate the first-time visitor to the region looking to explore the great outdoors for the first time. We welcome you to browse this site and explore all this region has to offer.