By Sierra Club Southeast Michigan Group Outings Leader Sudha Ganesh
The Orange Loop, described as the "crown jewel" of the Bald Mountain trail system, is a 3.6-mile loop around Graham Lakes. Commonly referred to as the Graham Lakes Trail, this loop was originally built in 1983 as a Nordic trail. The hilly unit was a natural choice for cross-country skiing with numerous, long, downhill runs. The lake-studded area soon attracted the attention of hikers and mountain bikers. There is no actual "Bald Mountain" here, or anywhere else in the state recreation area, but the trail does ascend a number of ridges and hills, climbing 60 feet at one point, to several scenic overlooks of lakes and leaving you feeling invigorated.
In spring, patches of wildflowers such as trillium, dwarf lake iris, ram’s head orchid, Virginia bluebells and evening primrose are indeed a treat! In summer, you can see vibrant pink flowers of fireweed, bright yellow marsh marigold, thistle and various sub species of goldenrod. Hikers will need a generous slathering of bug repellant during the summer months as the lakes are excellent breeding grounds for insects, attracting many bird species. Autumn’s hardwood fall colors highlight the loop’s ponds. Bring binoculars for a closeup view of raptors along the lakes. There are no toilet facilities on this trail.
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area requires the Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry. The trail is considered moderate difficulty, but it is easily hikeable by first time hikers or those with minor mobility issues. If you would like to hike the Bald Mountain Orange Loop, contact Sierra Club Southeast Michigan Group Outings Leader Sudha Ganesh at sganesh3243@gmail.com.