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Pine Haven Trails
4.5 ★★★★★ 76 Google reviews · Running trail in Sanford, Michigan · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Pine Haven Trails' 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.
Wooded park featuring hiking and biking trails that range from short loops to an extensive trek.
What runners say about Pine Haven Trails
“Well-kept and challenging with some great hills.”
“Well, it isn't Tennessee, but for around the tricities it has some very nice trails and beautiful scenery.”
Very hilly for this part of Michigan. Great trails, from a short loop to an extensive hike through the Mud creek valley all the way back to the Salt river. All wooded with a only a few open areas. Beautiful trees, some old and big. Hike to the back area along the Salt river for a quiet and beautiful place to pause.
The trail is about 5 miles loop. It's great for mountain bike and cross country skiing. It's fairly flat in the beginning but when you get to the back side by the Salt River it gets hilly. If you get lost or disoriented, every junction has a map. Plus a two tract escape route. I recommend it.
I've lived in Sanford for years and only recently discovered Pine Haven. What a gem! Miles and miles of beautiful woodland trails suited for folks of all physical levels. I walked my dog for over 4 miles and have hardly touched it. Highly recommended.
This place is a hidden gem in Sanford. If you're into the outdoors you won't be disappointed. The trails are in good shape, not muddy. Who knew we were all ready up north in our own back yard
Trail conditions & character
“Well, it isn't Tennessee, but for around the tricities it has some very nice trails and beautiful scenery.”
“5/2/26 did single track clean up with CMMBA.”
“It's fairly flat in the beginning but when you get to the back side by the Salt River it gets hilly.”
“Suggestion for walkers and their dogs WEAR ORANGE it's November rifle deer season in Michigan!”
“Great trails, from a short loop to an extensive hike through the Mud creek valley all the way back to the Salt river.”
“Huge parking lot, and handicapped size portatoilet.”
Plan your run at Pine Haven Trails
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
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Sanford
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Pine Haven Recreational Area
4.3 ★★★★☆ 131 reviews
Large, scenic park featuring marked trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, plus a creek.
Pere Marquette Rail Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 151 reviews
Long rail-trail used for hiking and biking that stretches from Clare to Baldwin.
Riverview Natural Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 75 reviews
Wooded trails, some along a river, through a natural area.
Manitou Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 70 reviews
Quiet park offering river access along with picnic tables and trails, plus kayak and tube launching areas.
Midland City Forest Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 719 reviews
Multi-use, tree-lined park offering walking and hiking trails, plus toboggan runs and an ice rink.