Van Buren Trail State Park, Rail trail in Van Buren County, United States
Van Buren Trail State Park is a rail trail spanning roughly 14 miles between Hartford and South Haven in southwestern Michigan. The route passes through dense forests of tall pines and hardwood trees, along with open agricultural land and fruit farms.
The trail follows a former railroad corridor that once carried trains through Van Buren County before being converted to a state park in 1994. This transformation allowed the old route to become accessible for walkers and cyclists instead of locomotives.
The trail connects multiple communities, passing through agricultural lands where local farmers maintain commercial fruit operations, including blueberry fields and grape vineyards.
A recreation passport is required for vehicle entry, with parking available at both trailheads and additional spots along Alyworth Avenue. The trail is easy to navigate thanks to clear signage and well-maintained surfaces throughout.
The northern section starting near mile 8 at Covert transitions between wooded stretches, open fields, and working fruit farms with blueberries and grapes. This changing landscape gives visitors a firsthand look at the region's farming heritage.
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