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Print Friendly MapThe White Lake Pathway provides an important connection between two neighboring towns that face each other across the beautiful White Lake. The trail traces a former railroad bed for just over 3 miles, offering picturesque views of the water and natural woodland and wetland settings along the way.
The trail begins in Montague, where those interested in quirky and unique attractions can visit Ellenwood Park to check out the world's largest weathervane, which sits 48 feet tall and weighs 3,500 pounds.
From Montague, trail-goers will cross a bridge over the White River and come to Covell Park, a favorite fishing spot with a boat launch and grassy picnic areas. History buffs may take interest in the park's World War I memorial and an interpretive marker describing the old saw mill on which the park was built. A little further south and you will reach Goodrich Park, the site of the White Lake marina and local events such as the Maritime Festival and Boat Show. The trail continues to its end in downtown Whitehall, with plenty of places to stop to eat or enjoy the sights.
To extend your journey, pick up the Hart-Montague Trail State Park in Montague to travel another 23 miles north through scenic rural landscapes. Or, in Whitehall, you can take the tree-lined Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail nearly 7 miles south to the town of Dalton.
To access the northern trailhead from the north: Take US 31 southbound to Fruitvale Road (Exit 131). Turn right (west) on Fruitvale Road for 0.2 mile to Old US 31. Take a left on Old US 31 for 1.6 miles to Stanton Boulevard. The trail is on the left.
To access the southern trailhead from the south: Take US 31 northbound to White Lake Drive (Exit 126). Turn right (west) onto White Lake Drive and continue 2.1 miles to the trail crossing. Parking is available about a mile further west along this road at the White Lake Community Library (3900 White Lake Drive, Whitehall).
Additional parking options include Covell Park (124 Hanson Street) and Goodrich Park (100 N. Lake Street).
Picked up the trail in Whitehall/Montague and connected with the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail. This trail is paved and goes through town and a small park.
I run on this path and really enjoy it. It is all uphill to the library then sort of flattens out a bit. The run/ride back down is much quicker. It seems very safe.
Lovely route, connects Berry Junction trail with Hart-Montaque Trail. Wooded and shaded, good asphalt conditions. More pedestrian traffic to be aware of.
Pathway trail is located in an through Whitehall MI. On the North end, the trail connects to the Hart-Montague trail at the White Lake Chamber of Commerce and on the South end it connects with the Fred Meijer Berry Junction trail. The connections are seamless.
This pathway trail is approx 3 miles in length and travels through residential areas, business areas and a wooded forest. There is also a lovely flower garden along the trail. The trail is well marked with map signs along the route.
The wooded area of the trail is through the Alcoa Howmet Woodland Gardens.
Parking is available at the Hart Montague end of the trail and at the Whitehall public library.
Be sure to stop and see the World's Largest Weathervane on the North end of the trail in Montague, located 1/2 mile from the trail. There are places to eat and shop along the trail in Whitehall.
If you have time, drive out to the White River Historic Light Station.
quiet little walk, never too busy!! :)
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