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Platte Plains Hiking and Ski Trails

The Platte Plains Trail traverses pine-hardwood forest with occasional open fields. The 14-mile trail is laid out in a series at loops so that skiers can choose an appropriate portion of the trail based on their time and energy. The 4.5 mile Otter Creek Loop is mainly flat with a few gentle slopes. Part of the trail follows county roads and is shared with snowmobiles. This loop affords views of Otter Creek and Otter Lake. The 3.6-mile easy loop follows a winding course across gently rolling hills and affords access to Deer, Bass and Otter Lakes. A .7-mile intermediate trail leading from the M-22 trailhead to the 3.6-mile loop has an equal mix of short uphills and downhills, giving a roller coaster feeling. This trail cuts across ancient dunes, now forested, that formed when Great Lake levels were higher. The 6-mile loop contains a .8-mile advanced section with steep hills and sharp curves. The remainder of the trail is rated easy, having only gentle hills and curves. This loop also affords access to a Lake Michigan overlook.

Click for Map of Platte Plains Hiking and Ski Trails

Photo: DSC_0034 by jsorbieus

America's Lakeshore: The Comprehensive Guide to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was developed by Michigan Alive in conjuction with Leelanau.com. It is designed to be the premier guide to the Lakeshore.

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