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Days River Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 107 Google reviews · Running trail in Gladstone, Michigan · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 9 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Days River Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Days River Trailhead
“Would definitely come back as the trails were very well maintained and I’m sure I’ll learn the lay of the land at some point.”
“The perfect balance of long, fast, and beautiful for any outdoor enthusiast.”
“Easy to follow and lots of things to look at so many kinds of mushrooms along with the trail!”
Awesome place to hike with the dog. There are a few different options for distance which is great. I hiked the shortest and the longest loop and both are great! The trail is well-maintained all the way and there are some moderate elevation changes but nothing major or long.
Lots of tough climbs, but the downhills were excellent payoffs! Another good thing about Days River is that all the trails loop together so you can cut over and turn back whenever you've had enough. Lots of beautiful and changing scenery!
Beautiful views! Trails could have been marked more clearly or have a map at the trail head. Would definitely come back as the trails were very well maintained and I’m sure I’ll learn the lay of the land at some point. :)
Nice place for easy running. Little rolling hills (15 miles has ~1200 ft gain), soft, nothing technical. Clean. Not like the trashdump trails in Manistique. Haven’t seen a single syringe, vape thinger, or beer can. Amazing. Has some pretty views.
Trail conditions & character
“The perfect balance of long, fast, and beautiful for any outdoor enthusiast.”
“Another good thing about Days River is that all the trails loop together so you can cut over and turn back whenever you've had enough.”
“The trail is well-maintained all the way and there are some moderate elevation changes but nothing major or long.”
“My preference is mountain biking so the single track combined with the longer trails makes for an easy justified drive.”
“Parking permits are available at the trailhead lot for $9/day.”
“The trail is completely clear and fairly flat, easy terrain to navigate even if you aren't in very good shape.”
“The trails are loops and give you options less than a couple miles to 9 miles.”
Plan your run at Days River Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance9 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitewww2.dnr.state.mi.us
- Phone+1 906-786-2351
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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