Kal-Haven Trail

Kal-Haven Trail is a paved pathway stretching roughly 35 miles through woodlands, wetlands, and small towns that connect the two communities. The crushed limestone surface works well for walking, biking, and other outdoor recreation.

The land was originally a railroad line built in the 1870s that served the Kalamazoo & South Haven Railroad and later Michigan Central Railroad. In the 1990s, the abandoned rail corridor was converted into a public recreation trail.

Small towns along the path have preserved old railway stations and a red caboose that show how trains once shaped the region. These reminders help visitors understand the connection between transportation and community life.

The path has several entry points with parking and restroom facilities, making it easy to start your visit from different locations. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, as milder weather and full trail access make travel easier for most visitors.

The route crosses the Black River over a covered wooden bridge that visitors pass through while traveling. Another highlight is a 1920s bridge with a distinctive arch in the middle, designed to strengthen the structure against the weight and stresses it faces.

Location: Van Buren County

Website: http://dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=353&type=SPTR

GPS coordinates: 42.38250,-85.95750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:44