Murphy Lake State Game Area, part two: Murphy Lake Rd. to Millington Rd. Or, The Deceptive Part of the Trail

So, Adventurers, you made it through Murphy Lake part one and feel invigorated?  You’re starting to feel like this outdoor business is pretty excellent?  And you want more?  It’s your lucky day, my friends—there’s more!

For another bike/hike/kid/dog-friendly trail experience, try Murphy Lake State Game Area, part two.

The Trail:

This section of trail is just shy of 1.5 miles long.  We’re going to start at one of the Murphy Lake Rd. parking lots and continue south (see map here).  If you come straight from the first section of the trail, on the north side of the road, you have to hoof it west on Murphy Lake Rd. about .25 mi to pick up the trail again (this is not included in the 1.5 mile measurement—if that’s a deal-breaker, you’ve been warned).  From the south parking lot it’s a shorter walk east to pick up the trail, but you still have to walk on the road to get there.  Not ideal, but the road isn’t tremendously busy.  Use your street smarts.

On the trail itself, you will see lots of trees.  Lots.  Of trees.  And no lake—which is sad, but geography is what it is.  You will also see many hills.  This is where the trail gets sneaky, because it starts with gentle rolling hills, and you think, “Hey, this isn’t so bad.  Look, another hill!  Whee!”  And for awhile, you’re right.  But then the hills get a little bigger, and a little steeper, and before you know it you’re out of breath and wondering where those friendly little hills went.  At least I’m out of breath.  Whatever, cardio people.  Whatever.  You cross several streams, mostly on spiffy little bridges, and encounter a few wet spots, usually avoidable.  When you reach Millington Rd., you’re done!  Now you can go back.  Or not.  There’s more trail out there…

The Pros and Cons:

Pro: The trail connects to other sections of trail for a longer outdoor adventure, but also has parking lots at either end for a shorter exploration.

Millington Rd. parking lot

Murphy Lake Rd. north parking lot

 

Murphy Lake Rd. south parking lot

Con: Only the Millington Rd. parking lot provides direct access to the trail.  Both Murphy Lake Rd. parking lots require a brief traipse down the road, which is dirt and not, like, a super-highway, but it does get traffic and there is no shoulder to speak of.  So be vigilant.  Side-note: if you haven’t read Murphy Lake part one, as far as I know the parking lots do not get plowed.  If there is any respectable amount of snow, have a 4-wheel drive or a shovel.  I would love to snowshoe out here in the winter, but am not motivated enough to clear a parking spot.  Be my inspiration.

Oh look!  Another hill!

Pro: There are lots of hills.  LOTS.  This is a novelty for Mid-Michigan—enjoy it as such.  Mountain bikers, this is for you.

Con: There are lots of hills.  LOTS.  If that’s not your thing, this is not your trail.  If you’re on the fence, in my completely unscientific opinion, anyone with a moderate fitness level and a little grit can handle this.  Need to take breaks?  Do it.  No shame.  The hills in this section aren’t as long/tall/whatever as the Swaffer to Murphy Lake segment—they’re just more frequent.  And during wet weather (all spring) consider bringing a walking stick.  At least one hill becomes a super fun mud slip-n-slide.  Wheeee!

Pro: Almost all the streams have very respectable bridges.  Well, very respectable in relative terms—they’re not the Mackinaw Bridge, but they work.  Back when we crossed on logs, Son #2 slipped off into the water and went bobbing down the stream (it was spring and the water was high).  I tell you, it’s amazing how waterproof windbreakers can be!  He finished the walk with wet feet but otherwise unharmed, 

and looks back on the incident fondly.  Boys.

Is that not a delightful footbridge?

Con: Not all the crossings have good bridges.  One is still a pretty makeshift affair.  This is really only a con if you want to avoid dirt and mud, and isn’t that why we’re here?  Embrace it!

The Knitty Gritty Details

You might recognize these from Murphy Lake, part one, but if not:

• There are no bathrooms and no garbage cans.  Plan accordingly
• This is a State Game Area.  During hunting season, wear orange or avoid
• Dog friendly!  Help us keep the trail poo-free!
• Questions about state land use policies?  Read more here

The Wrap-Up

Murphy Lake State Game Area, part two, has more trees, more hills, and less lake.  Take your kids!  Take your dog!  Take your bike!  Leave your swimsuit at home!  And gird up your loins for next time, when we explore Murphy Lake State Game Area, part three: Turkey Knob.

What in Blue Blazes?  It's a hairpin tun, Batman!  Good thing someone left these handy marks on the trail!