Let’s Go on a Hike! Ep. 5 – Highbanks Trail

Posted on by travelovermiway

Welcome to Let’s Go on a Hike! Here I’ll have weekly reviews on hikes throughout Michigan (and maybe beyond). Questions like: Can I trail run this path? How much parking is available? How difficult is this trail? and many more will be answered!


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The Basics

The Highbanks Trail is a 7.7 mile* long trail with 282 ft of elevation change along the Ausable River near Oscoda, MI.

The trail head is located at Iargo Springs. If you’re traveling from Oscoda,

  • Travel west on River Road for 17 miles.

  • The site is located on the right. Look for a large blue sign for Iargo Springs

The trail is mainly in a forest, along the Ausable River. Occasionally in a field. Ample parking available right at the trail head. There is only a water source available at the half-way point, at Lumberman’s Monument. The trail is wide enough for 1 person, sometimes 2. Dogs are allowed (as long as they are leashed). There is no entrance fee.

*Note: this is distance is ONE-WAY.


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The Highlights

THE BEST trail in NE Michigan. Gorgeous forest views, gorgeous river views, and overlooks.

Elevation is minimal, though there are dunes, stairs, and overlook trails optional to take.


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The Warnings

This trail is 7.7 miles ONE-WAY. Lumberman’s Monument is the half-way point so if you are not able to have a car parked on each end, and don’t want to hike ~15 miles then turning around here is perfect.

Parking at the end of the trail is near Cook Dam. When traveling West on River Road, you’ll turn right onto Cook Dam Road and travel down that road until you reach the Highbanks trail head on the left side. There is a loop drive for parking.

Summary

 

Yes

Children (6+)

Dogs

Parking

Trail Running

Restroom (outhouse) – Iargo Springs

Restroom (outhouse/regular) – Lumberman’s Monument

Water (Lumberman’s Monument)

 

No

Entrance Fee


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