Mountain Biking in the
Ottawa National Forest,
Western Upper Peninsula
Ottawa National Forest
Forest Supervisors Office
Ironwood, Ml 49938
(906) 932-1330
TTY:(906) 932-0301
(Map of Ottawa National Forest)
The Ottawa National Forest provides a wide variety of mountain biking opportunities ranging from well maintained and signed loops to more challenging cross country travel. Besides wilderness and specifically designated hiker only trails (including the North Country National Scenic Trail), the entire Forest is open to mountain bikes. This includes closed, gated and blocked roads unless the road is specifically closed to bicycles. Many of the designated mountain bike trails are also open to other uses including, motor vehicle travel, ATV's, ORV's, snowmobiles, hikers, and horses so please be careful and share the trail.
The main designated Mountain Biking Trails in the Ottawa National Forest are the Ehlco Biking Complex, the Henry and Pomeroy Lake Mountain Bike Complex and the Agonikak Mountain Bike Trail from Watersmeet to Land O' Lakes Wisconsin.
Mountain bike trails travel through a variety of management areas across the Forest. These areas are managed for a wide range of multiple use activities including recreation, threatened and endangered species, fish and wildlife, water quality, and wood products.
All closed and gated gravel roads are open to all motorized and nonmotorized uses unless otherwise specified. To help prevent erosion, please stay on the roads and trails. Please do not block any gates.
Carry the 10 essential items on all backcountry trips: 
* Whistle (3 blasts for help)
* Map and compass
* First aid kit
* Waterproof matches and candle
* Flashlight
* Sharp knife
* Nylon cord
* Extra food
* Warm clothing
* Rain gear
Leave all valuables locked in your trunk orout of view. Do not leave messages on your windshield or elsewhere that would be of interest to thieves.
SAFETY TIPS
Always let someone know where you are going, what route you are taking, when you expect to return, and what to do if you don't.
Check the weather forecast Be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for all potential weather conditions.
Don't push yourself beyond your limits. Keep an eye on each other.
Plot your progress on the map as you travel. Know where you are at all times.
Prepare for your trip with the expectation that you may have to spend an extra night or two in the forest.
MOUNTAIN BIKE CODE OF ETHICS:
SAFETY AND COURTESY CODE
1. Wear a helmet, eye wear, and gloves. Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it.
2. Always ride with others in remote areas and leave word of your travel plans with someone.
3. Maintain control of speed at all times and approach turns in anticipation of someone around the bend.
4. Dismount, yield, and be courteous when approaching all other trail users.
5. Greet hikers well in advance in a normal voice when approaching from behind.
6. Respect everyone's right to serenity - minimize noise.
ENVIRONMENTAL CODE
1. "Tread lightly" to avoid erosion. Carry bike over boggy or muddy areas.
2. Avoid skidding or spinning on steep grades. Carry your bike over stepping stones, water bars, and steps.
3. Stay on the established road or trail, even if wet or muddy. Leaving the trail causes more erosion and widens muddy spots.
4. Don't litter. Pack-out what you pack-in, including litter left by others.
5. Help keep trails clear for others by removing newly fallen brush or limbs.
6. Keep pets under control. It's best to leave pets home.
Trail Difficulty Levels
Each mountain bike trail on the Ottawa National Forest has been given a difficulty level. Steepness, length, and trail surface are considered. Difficulty is geared to an average biker.
EASY:
Steepness: Entire trail is less than 8 percent grade.
Length: Less than 10 miles.
Surface: Mostly flat, gravel and dirt roads.
INTERMEDIATE:
Steepness: Most of the trail is less than 20% grade.
Length: Usually between 10 and 20 miles.
Surface: Dirt roads and trails, may have stream crossings.
ADVANCED:
Steepness: Most of the trail has 20 percent grade or steeper.
Length: Usually more than 20 miles, but shorter steep trails may be included.
Surface: Dirt, mud, rocky. uneven surface and may include many unimproved stream crossings.
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS:
Baraga County Sheriff: 906/524-6177
Gogebic County Sheriff: 906/667-0203
Houghton County Sheriff: 906/482-4411
Iron County Sheriff, Ml.: 906/ 875-6669
Ontonagon County Sheriff: 906/884-4901
Michigan State Police: 906/224-9691
Iron County Sheriff, WI: 715/561-3800
Ottawa National Forest information (906) 932-1330
Mountain Biking in the Upper Peninsula
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