The Kal-Haven Trail is 33.5 miles long, connecting Kalamazoo to South Haven in southwest Michigan.
How long is the Kal-Haven Trail from Kalamazoo to South Haven?
The Kal-Haven Trail is a 33.5-mile linear, multi-use trail that links Kalamazoo to South Haven, making it southwest Michigan's premier rail-trail destination.
This scenic path, built on an old abandoned railroad bed, offers a really diverse journey. You'll wind through rural farmlands, charming small villages like Bloomingdale and Grand Junction, and even some serene wetlands. It all wraps up at the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, which is pretty fantastic! It's perfect for a day trip or even an overnight cycling adventure. You can find detailed maps through the Michigan DNR, and getting onto the trail is super easy from trailheads in both cities.
How much of the Kal-Haven Trail is paved?
The majority of the Kal-Haven Trail features a crushed limestone/slag surface, with only specific sections paved with asphalt.
The entire 33.5-mile route is non-motorized, primarily made up of firm crushed limestone. However, there's a notable 4.8-mile paved asphalt section that offers a smoother ride for those who prefer it.
Can you ride a road bike on the Kal-Haven Trail?
Honestly, the trail is super smooth and easy to ride, no matter what kind of bike you've got. Even skinny-tire road bikes should be okay on this trail, though it's absolutely perfect for mountain, hybrid, or cyclocross bikes. Just be ready to give your trusty two-wheeled companion a good wash after your ride; they definitely get a little dusty on the Kal-Haven.
Can you snowmobile on the Kal-Haven Trail?
Yep, you can! The old railroad bed has been converted into a trail with a limestone/slag surface, which works for non-motorized bicycles, hiking, and snowmobiling. You can even go geocaching along the trail, too. Snowmobilers can enjoy the Kal-Haven Trail as long as there's a 4-inch base of snow.
Can you camp along the Kal-Haven Trail?
Absolutely! There are campgrounds along the Kal-Haven Trail. The main campground is open from May 15th through October 15th. You'll find spots for primitive tent camping, and there's room for RVs as well. If you're looking for a unique place to stay a bit outside of town, the Kal-Haven Outpost is a really great option.
Is North Beach South Haven Open?
North Beach is a really popular spot in South Haven, located just north of the pier and lighthouse. The beach itself is open until 11 pm. Just so you know, the parking fee is $7.00 per car.
Can you drink on South Haven beach?
The beaches are open all year round, which is nice. But, heads up: no animals and no alcohol are allowed.
Which beach is better in South Haven?
When it comes to the main beaches in South Haven, South Beach and North Beach are definitely the most popular choices. Both are fantastic, really. You'll find the iconic South Haven Lighthouse at South Beach, and you can walk right out to the end of the pier where it stands.
Can you swim at South Haven today?
Yes, you can swim! South Haven's North Beach is open year-round, typically from 8 am to 10 pm. Visitors can enjoy swimming, strolling along the pier, grabbing a snack from concession stands, using the playgrounds, and even doing some excellent fishing. Just remember, pets aren't allowed on the beach.
Can you have beer on Michigan beaches?
Generally speaking, most public beaches in Michigan are alcohol-free. For example, alcohol is prohibited on Silver Beach, and also on Tiscornia and Jean Klock beaches across the river. (Though, full disclosure, we've had wine at sunset at Jean Klock before and didn't realize it was prohibited, and nobody seemed to be checking.)
Where do you park at South Haven beach?
One great option for parking is Packard Park & Beach. There's a $10 per trip parking fee there (you can pay with credit card or cash). If you're looking for a free alternative, you can often find parallel parking spots on North Shore Drive.
