DTE Energy Foundation Trail

The DTE Energy Foundation Trail is a new project  that will consist of  five distinct, singletrack loops totaling approximately 20+ miles of trail in Waterloo Recreation Area. In addition, we have the long-term goal of providing a connector trail open to bicycle use to the well-established Potawatomi Trail at nearby Pinckney Recreation Area. The resulting epic “flow trail” system will consist of over 50 miles of no-repeat singletrack trail.

Trail Conditions:
Trail conditions are regularly updated on the DTE Energy Foundation Trail Facebook page.

Please check conditions before riding, because the trail does close during erosive conditions.

Daily Trail Directions:
Trail Direction alternates depending on the day. Below are the days for bike traffic and foot traffic is opposite.

Signs are posted at the Trail entry points.
M/W/F/Su is Clockwise for bikes.
Tu/Th/Sa is Counter Clockwise for bikes.
Opposite for foot traffic.

DTE Trail Parking Lots:
M-52 Parking Lot / Green Lot – 17819 Stockbridge Chelsea Rd, Chelsea, MI 48118
Cassidy Road Parking Lot – 16500 Cassidy Road Chelsea, MI 48118
McClure Road Parking Lot / Sugar Lot – 16701 McClure Road Chelsea, MI 48118
Lyndon Township Hall – 17751 N. Territorial Road, Chelsea, MI 48118

DNR Recreation Passport info:
A DNR Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into the Waterloo Recreation Area and to park at the DTE Energy Foundation Trail parking lots.

Michigan-registered vehicles, a resident Recreation Passport can be purchased at the time of annual license plate renewal via the Secretary of State for $11.

On-site self registration is available in the M-52 and Cassidy lots for $16 (Cash or Check only).

Credit Card processing is available at the Waterloo Recreation Area Headquarters.
Waterloo Recreation Area Headquarters
16345 McClure Rd, Chelsea, MI 48118

For more information about the DTE Energy Foundation Trail, the building project, trail maps and more – visit our website.