Now, for anyone that has seriously thought about hiking this trail, I'm sure you have come to the same frustrating conclusion that I came to in the Fall of 2010 when I first looked into backpacking the trail: there are no decent trail maps available anywhere on the Internet, and seemingly even less accounts of people who have actually hiked it. (Here is a the best write-up I have been able to find regarding the trail. It offers some first-hand insight from a hike in 2010)
The staff member from the MTRA was very nice, and mentioned that although she has talked to a lot of hikers about obtaining maps, none have come back with any information from their hike. A $10 cheque is going in the mail, and I should have a start.
If you would like to get in contact with them:
989-473-3205
Chris Rayner, Sec/Treas
Michigan Trail Riders Assoc.
5806 E. State Rd.
Hale, MI 48739
Another Option
Having spent a considerable amount of time in the Huron National Forest (basically every weekend in the summer of 2009) I got to know the forest pretty well. It's how I first heard of the trail, though at the time I did not give it much thought. However, on visits to the Lumberman's Monument visitor center, I remember coming across a small envelope of maps marking (vaguely) the course of the trail. The packet sells for $4. Looking through the maps at the time I assumed there had to be a more detailed approach and decided to save my money. I'll change my mind, and send them a cheque as well to compare between the only two options I have seen.
The Forest Service also has a webpage dedicated to AuSable portion of the "Shore-to-Shore State Horse Trail" and mentions that the trail is also open to hikers.
In about a week I hope to get the Maps in and start on the route planning... 'Till then, time to start working on the pack....
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