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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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Michigan
Northwest Region
Fife Lake State Forest
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FIFE LAKE STATE FOREST
FIFE LAKE STATE FOREST
Fife Lake State Forest, located in northern Michigan, is a scenic and diverse natural area that offers visitors a true escape into the beauty of nature. This expansive forest encompasses vast stretches of woodlands, cascading rivers, and serene lakes, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. With its vibrant array of flora and fauna, including towering trees, wildflowers, and various species of wildlife, Fife Lake State Forest is a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Whether one seeks solitude amidst the peaceful surroundings or engages in activities like camping, fishing, or canoeing, this forest promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Michigan's natural splendor.
History of the Area
Fife Lake State Forest is a forested area located in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It was established in 1928 and encompasses over 5,000 acres of land. The forest was named after the nearby Fife Lake, which is a popular recreational destination.

The history of Fife Lake State Forest traces back to the early 20th century when the land was primarily used for logging. The forests in Michigan were rich with timber resources, and logging was a vital industry in the region. Many trees, including white pine, red pine, and hardwoods, were harvested from the area during this time.

After years of intensive logging, the state government recognized the need for conservation and reforestation to secure the future of Michigan's forests. In 1928, the Fife Lake State Forest was established as part of the state's efforts to manage and protect its natural resources. This designation aimed to restore the forested areas that had been previously cleared due to logging activities.

Throughout the following decades, Fife Lake State Forest has been managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to maintain the health and sustainability of the forest ecosystem. The DNR has implemented various practices such as selective logging, forest regeneration, and wildlife management to ensure the long-term viability of the forest.

Fife Lake State Forest offers a range of recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. The forest features numerous trails that traverse through its diverse landscapes, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore the area's natural beauty.

Fife Lake State Forest in Michigan has a history rooted in logging and the subsequent efforts to conserve and restore the forested areas. It has since become an important recreational destination, highlighting the significance of sustainable forest management and preservation in the region.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Camping
1. Fife Lake State Forest Campground: This campground offers 25 sites for tent and small trailer use, some of which can accommodate a vehicle length up to 40 feet. It is located on the southeast corner of scenic Fife Lake.

2. Spring Lake State Forest Campground: Located within the forest area, this rustic campground has vault toilets and potable water from well hand pump.

3. Pickerel Lakeside Campground & Cottages: Although not directly in the state forest, it's nearby offering full hook-up RV Sites as well as cabins available for rent with lake access.

4. Kalkaska RV Park & Campgrounds: Another option close by that provides both camping facilities along with amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry etc.

5. Shoreline Camping Area: A primitive campsite near North Country Trailhead suitable only for tents or hammocks.

6. Manistee River Bridge Primitive Camping Site: Only accessible via hiking trails but perfect if you're looking forward to backcountry experience.
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Location
Fife Lake State Forest is
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Trails
1. Fife Lake Loop: This 21-mile trail is a combination of the North Country Trail and State Forest pathways, offering hikers an immersive experience in Michigan's wilderness. The loop takes you through hardwood forests, along riverbanks, past wetlands and offers stunning views of Fife Lake.

2. Spring Brook Pathway: A shorter option at just under five miles long that winds its way around several small lakes within the state forest area. It features diverse terrain including marshes, pine plantations and deciduous woods making it ideal for bird watching or wildlife spotting.

3. Manistee River Trail/North Country National Scenic Trail Connector: An approximately eight mile stretch connecting two major trails - this section traverses rolling hills with breathtaking overlooks on the Manistee River valley as well as dense woodland areas teeming with local flora & fauna.

4. Boardman Valley Nature Preserve Trails: These are series of interconnected loops totaling about four miles which offer scenic vistas over meadows filled wildflowers during springtime while also passing by old-growth cedar swamps providing unique opportunities to observe rare species like Northern Flying Squirrels or Pileated Woodpeckers up close.

5. Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding/HikingTrail: Although primarily designed for equestrian use, these multi-use paths spanning across entire length from Empire (on shores Of lake Michigan) till Oscoda(on banks Huron), cross right through heartland thus giving ample chances explore different sections according your preference.

6. North County National Scenic Hike/Bicycle Route: Partly overlapping aforementioned connector route but extending much beyond towards either direction thereby forming part longest continuous footpath United States stretching nearly 4600 miles total!

7. Forks Campground Accessible Fishing Pier/Pathways: Located near confluence AuSable East Branch South branches rivers where they form 'Fork' before flowing into main body water, these pathways lead to an accessible fishing pier which is a popular spot for anglers.

8. Lost Lake Pathway: A 6.3-mile loop trail that takes you through beautiful forest areas and around the serene Lost Lake, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching along with scenic views of the lake itself.

9. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Trails: These are series interconnected loops totaling about ten miles taking hikers deep into heartland while passing by several pristine lakes making it ideal choice those seeking solitude or wishing engage in quiet contemplation amidst nature's bounty.

10. Fife Lake Foot Trail: This approximately five mile long footpath offers stunning vistas over Fife lake as well as surrounding woodland area teeming local flora & fauna thus providing ample photo ops throughout journey.

11. Kalkaska County Equestrian/Hiking/Bike Trail: Another multi-use path designed primarily equestrians but also open bikers walkers alike traversing diverse landscapes including meadows filled wildflowers during springtime old-growth cedar swamps home rare species like Northern Flying Squirrels Pileated Woodpeckers among others.

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Directions
1. Start by heading north on US:131 N.
2. Continue for approximately 20 miles and take exit 176 toward Manton/Fife Lake.
3. Merge onto MI:113 E/Mesick Avenue and continue straight for about 10 miles until you reach the town of Fife Lake.
4. In Fife Lake, turn left onto S Morey Road/County Hwy:605 (you will see signs indicating the state forest).
5. Follow this road for around 6 miles as it winds through beautiful wooded areas until you arrive at your destination: Fife Lake State Forest.
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Michigan State Parks

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