In Clare County, the City of Clare is a starting point for exploring the Pere Marquette Rail Trail. The paved trail runs for more than 30 miles from downtown Clare to Midland. The 13-mile Green Pine Lake Pathway offers a different view of the landscape, with lakes, fields, forests, and wetlands in its surroundings.
Cycling trails with different characteristics
The two routes can be compared by several features: the Pere Marquette Rail Trail is defined by its length and paved surface, while the Green Pine Lake Pathway connects several landscape types with a wider range of uses. It is suitable for hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
The Green Pine Lake Pathway is characterized not only by its varied landscapes, but also by the range of activities available in different seasons. Before riding the Pere Marquette Rail Trail, it is a good idea to check current trail conditions.
Winter on trails and slopes
In winter, the Green Pine Lake Pathway is also open to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Snow Snake adds to these options with a 40-acre area suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. The area also offers six miles of groomed winter fat-bike trails. Since seasonal operations may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your trip.
Snowmobile trails are also part of the winter offerings: the Fur Farm Snowmobile Trail begins north of Harrison and connects to the Leota Trail. Winter conditions and access rules may change, so check them before setting out. For larger ORVs, the Leota ORV Trailhead offers more than 55 miles of trails.
Water, forest, and open landscapes
At the north end of Budd Lake, Wilson State Park covers 36 wooded acres. The park brings forest and lake together in a named natural area. Access to the water also matters elsewhere: 18 lakes in Clare County have public boat launches for fishing, boating, and other water sports. Some lakes are privately reserved, a distinction to keep in mind when planning water activities.
History, festivals, and local food
The Clare County Historical Society Historical Complex preserves artifacts and records documenting the county’s history. Traditional blacksmithing demonstrations are held there on Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m.; the offering may be seasonal. Live theater performances and current films are part of the program at the historic Ideal Theatre, which changes over time.
Events also offer a variety of experiences. The Clare County Fair has been held every summer in Harrison since 1883; dates vary from year to year. The Clare Irish Festival takes place annually in March in the City of Clare. During the festival, local restaurants, pubs, and cafés prepare Irish-inspired food and drinks. Participating businesses may vary.
The history of the Frostbite Winter Festival traces back to a golf event in the early 1980s on frozen Budd Lake, where a nine-hole course was laid out. The festival grew out of that event. At Yoders’ Quilt Auction and Flea Market, specialty food stalls offer baked goods and cheese; the selection may vary.
Golf and other activities
Golf courses offer further variety: Devil’s Knob is a public 9-hole course in the gently rolling hills of Hamilton Township; operations and access may change. Firefly is the oldest golf course in Clare County. For a different kind of game, the Harrison campus of Mid Michigan College has an 18-hole disc golf course. Course conditions may also change.
Discover more destinations: Clare, Emmet, Benzie County, Leelanau County, Ontonagon County, Roscommon County, Menominee County, Mackinac
For the main travel overview: Michigan.
