Paint Creek Trail: Michigan's first nonmotorized rail-trail

Paint Creek Trail is an 8.9-mile path between Rochester and Lake Orion, following the former Penn Central line through northeast Oakland County. Four communities formed the Paint Creek Trailways Commission in 1981. In 1983, the commission bought 10.5 miles of railroad corridor for $450,000 and opened Michigan’s first nonmotorized rail-trail.

That last word matters. Michigan DNR calls the Haywire Grade Trail the state’s first rail trail overall; it became a recreation trail in 1970 and allows motorized uses. Paint Creek was the first specifically nonmotorized rail-trail. The Hart–Montague trail, opened later on the west side of the state, was Michigan’s first paved rail-trail. Three different claims can all be right once the comparison is clear.

Paint Creek is easygoing, but it is not an asphalt bike path. The commission says 98% of the route is crushed limestone, with a grade of about 2% from south to north. Larger-wheeled strollers and wheelchairs can use the surface; tiny stroller wheels, rollerblades, and skateboards are a poor match. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed, while Class 3 e-bikes are generally not allowed.

The trail runs through Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, Orion Township, and the Village of Lake Orion. It follows Paint Creek, which DNR calls a premier cold-water trout stream. At the south end, Rochester’s River Walk connects toward the Clinton River Trail. Farther north, a connector reaches the Polly Ann Trail, with another route toward Bald Mountain Recreation Area. A short ride can become a much longer one if your legs agree.

For a first visit, Rochester Municipal Park is the simplest starting point. The commission also lists parking at Tienken Road, several Oakland Township crossings, Clarkston and Kern roads, and Lake Orion. The trail is open year-round from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset. The official map marks parking, restrooms, and drinking fountains; some facilities are seasonal.