Highbanks Hiking & Ski Trail System
A backcountry hiking and ski trail alng the south shore of Cooke Dam Pond
Near the Tawases, the Highbanks Trail is one of the most scenic trail routes in the Midwest. Backcountry ski touring and snowshoeing is very enjoyable here because of the exceptional natural beauty of the Highbanks setting. The ungroomed trail follows a high bluff overlooking the historic AuSable River Valley, and the views are unparalleled. From such sacramental spots as Largo Springs or Lumberman’s Monument, you can see clear across Michigan’s most famous river valley and watch snow storms advancing 20 miles away. The grounds of these sites are open in the winter, but the sites are not maintained and no toilet facilities are available.
The trail is not groomed but is maintained by the US Forest Service and Corsair Trail Council – this means the trail is well-marked and cleared of fallen trees.
Points of Interest: Largo Springs Interpretive, Canoer’s Memorial, Lumberman’s Monument, Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center, Sid Town and Sawmill Point.
Download the US 23 Trails Map to access trails along the entire US-23 Sunrise Coast!
Things to Do: Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking, Snowshoeing
Open: Year Round
5761 N. Skeel Ave., Oscoda, MI 48750
GPS: 44.43639, -83.62355
