Hoist Lake Loop Trails

Starting near Alcona County, Michigan, the Hoist Lake Loop Trails offer a captivating 24 km (approximately 15 miles) journey through the Huron National Forest. With an elevation gain of around 400 meters (1,312 feet), this loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive to the nearest significant landmark, which is the town of Glennie, Michigan. From Glennie, head east on Bamfield Road for about 10 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area. Unfortunately, public transport options are limited in this rural area, so driving is the most practical way to get there.### Trail Overview The Hoist Lake Loop Trails meander through a diverse landscape of dense forests, serene lakes, and rolling hills. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but it's advisable to use HiiKER for navigation to ensure you stay on track.### Key Sections and Landmarks#### Initial Ascent Starting from the trailhead, the first 3 km (1.9 miles) involve a gradual ascent through a mixed hardwood forest. This section gains about 100 meters (328 feet) in elevation, providing a good warm-up for the rest of the hike. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and wild turkeys, which are commonly seen in this area.#### Hoist Lake Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll reach Hoist Lake, a picturesque spot perfect for a short break. The lake is surrounded by towering pines and offers a tranquil setting for birdwatching. Look for loons and herons that frequent the waters.#### Historical Significance Continuing on, you'll come across remnants of old logging camps around the 8 km (5 miles) point. These camps date back to the early 20th century when the area was heavily logged. Informational plaques provide context about the logging history and its impact on the region.#### Midpoint and Elevation Gain At approximately 12 km (7.5 miles), you've reached the midpoint of the loop. Here, the trail climbs another 150 meters (492 feet) over the next 4 km (2.5 miles), offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This section can be challenging, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.#### Return Descent The final 8 km (5 miles) of the trail involve a gradual descent back to the trailhead. This section passes through a series of small lakes and wetlands, home to beavers and a variety of waterfowl. The trail can be muddy in spots, so waterproof boots are recommended.### Wildlife and Flora The Hoist Lake Loop Trails are rich in biodiversity. In addition to the larger mammals and birds, you might encounter smaller creatures like chipmunks and various species of frogs. The forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers in the spring and summer, including trilliums and lady's slippers.### Practical Tips - Water: There are several natural water sources along the trail, but it's advisable to bring a water filter or purification tablets. - Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed, and there are several established campsites near the lakes. - Weather: The trail can be hiked year-round, but be prepared for snow and ice in the winter months.Using HiiKER for navigation will ensure you have the most up-to-date trail information and can make the most of your hike through this beautiful and historically rich area.