MAPS : Ely Lake | Pine Point | Silver Creek

The Allegan County Equestrian Trail System (ETS) is a collaborative effort between Allegan County Parks, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the volunteer group Friends of the Allegan County Equestrian Trail System (FACETS). 

Horseback riding in Allegan County has been a very popular recreational activity for residents and visitors for many years.  Most of the equestrian activity in the County takes place in the 50,000-acre Allegan State Game Area.  Up until recently this riding activity in the Game Area has been through a “dispersed” riding program, meaning there were no designated riding trails.  However, in an effort to make riding in the Game Area more user-friendly and to protect sensitive ecosystems Allegan County Parks, via a 25-year renewable lease agreement with the State of Michigan, has taken over management and ownership responsibilities for a designated equestrian trail system in the Game Area.

When complete the ETS will consist of more than 50 miles of designated riding trails that will be mapped and marked.  This will make it easier for riders, especially those that are new to the area, to enjoy this recreational opportunity in Allegan County.  The largest trail network will be connected to our popular Silver Creek Equestrian Park and Campground, which is located near Hamilton. Silver Creek Park has both day riding and overnight camping opportunities. 

Along with Silver Creek, there will also be two new trail staging areas, one of which will be located at Pine Point Campground and the other will be located at Ely Lake Campground. Pine Point and Ely Lake will also play host to additional overnight equestrian camping opportunities as well.  Both of these campgrounds are located just to the west of the City of Allegan.   

Most of 2009 will be spent marking, mapping and creating the designated ETS, as well as closing off old trails which will not be part of the new system.  We expect to have work on the trails completed by the fall of 2009 and we anticipate having the additional camping opportunities at Pine Point and Ely Lake in place for the spring of 2010.  All ETS trails that are part of the Game Area will be closed to riding from November 15 to November 30 each year.  This coincides with the firearm deer season.

It is important to note that this ETS opportunity would not be possible without an active and dedicated volunteer group in FACETS.  If you are interested in being a volunteer with FACETS or would like to contact them for further information please contact the Allegan County Parks Office.

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