This paved rail-trail stretches for 22.5 miles over 225 acres between Hart and Montague. Opening in 1991, a local citizen bought the old railroad corridor for trail use and donated most of it to the State. The trail is popular because of its close proximity to Lake Michigan, and offers a safe, peaceful passage without the worry of motorized vehicles.

The entire trail is accessible for hiking, biking, in-line skating, skiing—and if there's 4+ inches of snow, snowmobiling. South of Rothbury, it is also marked as a dog-sledding route. Throughout the trail, you can appreciate the beauty of Oceana County and its many crops of apples, cherries, and asparagus. Perhaps the most scenic stretch is between Mears and Shelby, where you can enjoy views from two rest stops, one of which features a deck that overlooks East Golden Pond.

Take a historic glimpse into the Hart-Montague Trail, which is the former route of the Grand Rapids and Lakeshore RR Company. Both the Shelby and New Era Trailheads have information about the formation of the railroads and an 1894 train wreck.

Picnic tables, restrooms, and water are available along the way, at the Shelby Trailhead, New Era at milepost 12, Montague, and at the Rothbury Community Park. Benches and shady areas are also found at various points throughout the trail. For a longer stop, venture into any of the villages along the way, which offer restaurants, campgrounds, and hotels/motels. You can rent a bicycle in both Mears and Shelby, and there are 20 exercise stations along a one mile stretch of trail in the village of Shelby.

Fresh, clean air, fishing, wildlife watching, and great exercise—the Hart-Montague Bike Trail is just what the doctor ordered for a stress free day!