Black Mountain Recreation Area

Developed by the Michigan DNR as a Nordic sports complex, Black Mountain Pathway offers over 30 miles of interconnected cross-country skiing trails, including a 5.9-mile skate-skiing loop. The trail system forms a series of loops, allowing you to choose the trail loops that best suit your skill level. These nicely designed two-way trails are extra wide with a firm grassy surface. Each intersection is numbered and includes a map showing you where you are, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. 

The trails are well maintained. Parking lot, toilet and informal bulletin board with maps.

Skiers may find themselves gliding under majestic pines, taking in views of Black Lake and, under the right conditions, even getting a glimpse of Lake Huron. Trail users travel through a number of forest types and can see what a managed forest looks like in its various stages of regrowth. Four separate parking lots provide skiers and hikers access to the pathway loops which best suit their abilities or interests.

For grooming information, visit the Black Mountain Facebook page.

Black Mountain is groomed for classic and skate by volunteers. Home of the Annual Black Mountain 30Km Nordic Classic Ski Race, a Michigan Cup event!

Travel Directions to DNR Parking area - Twin Lakes:

From Onaway (13 miles NW of Onaway):
Take M-211 north to County Road 489.
Right on Country Road 489 to Town Hall Rd.
Straight on Town Hall Rd. to DNR parking lot.
(Town Hall Rd. becomes Twin Lakes Rd. at Cheboygan county line).

From Rogers City (20 miles NW of Rogers City):
US 23 north to County Road 646 (Town Hall Rd.)
Left on Country Road 646 to stop sign.
Right on Country Road 646 (Town Hall Rd.) to DNR Parking Area.
(Town Hall Rd. becomes Twin Lakes Rd. at Cheboygan county line).

From Cheboygan (12 miles SE of Cheboygan):
M-33 south to Orchard Beach Rd.
East on Orchard Beach Rd. to Black River Rd.
Right on Black River Rd. to Twin Lakes Rd.
Left on Twin Lakes Rd. to DNR parking lot.