Merrell - Mountain Bike Trail

If you love rollercoasters and you want to have such an experience riding your bike, then Merrell Trail is just where you need to be. It is quite popular for its rollercoaster-like design, which is often fun for riders of various skills and levels.

Conveniently situated in Rockford, Michigan, the trail is 11.3 km long and is often regarded as the best flow trail since it amazingly provides top-notch fun even with its small space. Continue reading to know more about this exciting trail. 

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

Often regarded as the best mountain biking trail in West Michigan, Merrell Trail is open to intermediate and advanced riders. One thing that makes this trail special is its unique design. It opens up to smooth rolling trails with man-made obstacles strategically positioned perfectly for riders with little skills and experience. However, the course gets harder as you progress with several tabletop jumps, fast descents, roots, elevated bridges, rocks and elevated structures. 

Another special feature of Merrell Trail that sets it apart is its rollercoaster-like trails, Phaser and Siren, which wind down into the valley. Each trail features large banked turns and twists which advanced riders often find interesting since it allows them to defy gravity and maintain fast speed. Also, most segments of this trail are designed for intermediate, with Sawtooth being the only advanced section. 

Finally, there are large flat rocks and wood plank bridges where bikers can ride across small creeks. To make it easier to ride through, the trail is littered with well-marked arrows and intersection posts, which riders find quite directional. With an elevation gain of 215 up and 216 down, this trail is bound to offer an amazing riding experience. 

Additional Trail Features

Mountain bikers are not the only users of this trail; the smooth trail also attracts trail runners. Like most trails in West Michigan, it is usually sandy during dry spells. Also, the trail becomes a cool spot for snowshoeing when snow is allowed to accumulate during winter. 

Recommendations/Precautions

Before riding on this trail, you should be certain of the weather condition as it holds water when it rains. You should carry enough water before setting out. Also, a first aid kit would come in handy for emergencies as the topological nature of the trail may delay emergency responses.

Sights of Interest

This route does not have impressive and picturesque views. However, the biker likes that the trail goes through the forest and the trees provide shade in hot weather. When you drive along this trail, you feel secluded and take a break from the bustle of the city.

Conclusion 

Merrell Trail is a fantastic choice for intermediate and advanced bikers who want fun while showing off their riding skills. It is quite popular with intermediate riders as most sections are designed for their skill level. With fast descents, elevated bridges, rollercoaster-like trails, roots and rocks, Merrell Trail provides the right challenge for bikers regardless of their experience level.