How the trail was built.
The Potowatomi Mountain Biking Association (PotoMBA โ www.potomba.org), an International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) Chapter, spearheaded the trail development with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). In February 2015, PotoMBA and MDNR signed an Operating Agreement to construct the Midwestโs most epic mountain bike trail system. In early 2016, the DTE Energy Foundation provided over a quarter-million dollars to fund trail construction, and the trail was rebranded from the “Waterloo Trail” to the DTE Energy Foundation Trail. The first 5.2 mile loop of the trail at Green Lake was completed in June 2016. The second loop, on “the Big Kame” was completed in May 2017. The third loop, “Winn” was completed in August 2018. The fourth loop, “Sugar” was completed in August 2019. A potential fifth loop of the trail approximating 4 miles is possible in the future, pending MDNR approval. Follow our Facebook page for updates.
How you can help.
Development of the DTE Energy Foundation mountain bike trail system was a massive undertaking requiring significant monetary and human resources. The community and mountain biking public came together to support this project. Fund raising and sponsorship development continues, to build and maintain the trail system.
You can help maintain it >
DTE Energy Foundation Trail on Facebook
Have you participated in the DNR survey for the 10-year Waterloo Recreation Plan?![]()
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What would you like to see the DNR contribute to the DTE Trails over the next decade?![]()
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Here are some ideas to consider for your survey responses:![]()
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๐๐ป๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐:![]()
โฆฟ Dedicated budget for trail maintenance.![]()
โฆฟ Dedicated full-time staff for trail maintenance.![]()
โฆฟ Expansion of more challenging trails for experienced riders (5th loop area or Cassidy Prison area).![]()
โฆฟ Development of a dedicated mountain bike skills jump park โRailyardโ style.![]()
โฆฟ Trail Hubs.![]()
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๐๐บ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐:![]()
โฆฟ Pavilion or social gathering space.![]()
โฆฟ Clean and accessible restrooms that are not vault toilets.![]()
โฆฟ More parking.![]()
โฆฟ Designated picnic areas.![]()
โฆฟ Trail art pieces.![]()
โฆฟ Bike wash stations.![]()
โฆฟ Air pump & tool stations.
Calling all mountain bikers! ๐ฃ๐ฅ๐จ![]()
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The DNR is asking for your input on the future of Waterloo Recreation Area, and they want to hear from YOU!![]()
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They're developing a 10-year plan for the park, and mountain bike trails are a key part of the discussion. Here's how you can make your voice heard:![]()
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Attend the meeting! The DNR is hosting a public meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 22nd from 5:30-7:00 pm at the Eddy Discovery Center (17030 Bush Road, Chelsea). Let them know you're in favor of building more trails at the former old gravel pit and the former Cassidy Prison.![]()
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Fill out the online survey! The survey closes on Jan. 24th. Be sure to select the checkboxes for these actions:![]()
๐ Develop a mountain bike trail loop and beginner skills course in the old gravel pit site.![]()
๐ Resolve Pinckney Waterloo trail erosion and drainage issues.![]()
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Want to see trails in the former Cassidy Prison site? The survey has a section for "Should any actions be added to the list?" Let the DNR know your thoughts!![]()
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Get more info!![]()
โญ Survey: www.research.net/r/NX5XCW8![]()
โญ Phase 2 General Management Plan info: www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources/prd/parks/mgt-plans/waterloo-recreation-area![]()
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Let's work together to make Waterloo Rec even better for mountain bikers! ๐