Unique trail marker.
Hartwick Pines is famous for its old growth White Pine forest. The story of the history of how this forest became preserved from the lumberjack's ax can be read on the Michigan DNR website here.
On this rainy Sunday afternoon of September 15th, I took a hike on the 3 mile AuSable River Foot Trail. You can find the parking area 1 mile North of the main entrance on Route 93.
A quarter mile down the trail there is a junction in which the trail markers indicate you continue straight and walk the trail in a counter-clockwise direction. Another quarter mile you come to the first bridge that crosses the infant stage of the AuSable River.
Once you cross the first bridge, the trail takes a left turn and follows the river upstream for a mile. Parts of this trail goes through a dark and dreary cedar forest before the trail turns, and you cross a second bridge. After crossing that bridge, the trail narrows as it cuts through thick undergrowth, then opens up, and you find yourself entering an impressive old growth forest of Eastern Hemlock.
Up to this point, the entire hike is flat and easy, but you will need to watch out and avoid tripping on the many tree roots exposed due to erosion. There is one steep hill climb, but there is a by-pass. Once you reach the top of the hill, you enter a Red Pine plantation.
The massive size White Pines are the main attraction at the state park. The AuSable River Foot Trail is one of many hiking trails within Hartwick Pines. Here you will learn an important part of Michigan's history.
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