Southern Links Trailway
The “thumb” area of Michigan is sometimes
called, the “forgotten digit” of the mitten. Amid the broad fields
of this vast agricultural region, are trails and treasures, unlike
any in the rest of the state. Those looking for a place to take a
walk, and enjoy the wildlife, might want to try the pathway known as
the Southern Links Trailway.
While
there are water trails and bicycle routes in the region, the
Southern Links Trailway has a lot to offer for hikers, bikers and
walkers on snow shoes of all skill levels. This rail-trail runs
10-miles through the communities of Columbiaville, Otter Lake, and
Millington, just south of Caro. The trail is paved with smooth
asphalt, an adjacent path is offered for those who prefer to travel
on horseback. On a bicycle, you could just coast from Otter Lake to
Millington because of the gentle incline from the old railroad days
when this was the Detroit and Bay City Railway.
The ten foot wide paved surface is especially suited to groups who
like to ride bikes together. A variety of deciduous trees line the
trail and the colors are spectacular in the fall months. Trail users
will pass through a mixed rural landscape, including fields,
wetlands, forests and farmland. Local wildlife is plentiful
including rabbits, chipmunks, woodchucks, frogs and turtles.
Encounters between the animals and trail users are not uncommon. The
southern section of the trail is popular with bird watchers.
The Southern Links Trailway is a multi-use trail, so walkers may be
sharing the pathway with bikers, skaters, and even horses.