Van Buren Trail

Van Buren Trail State Park is a linear trail park stretching approximately 14 miles through Van Buren County in southwestern Michigan. Built on a former railroad corridor, the trail connects the communities of South Haven on Lake Michigan to Hartford, passing through scenic rural landscapes of orchards, vineyards, and farmland in Michigan's fruit belt.

The trail corridor passes through agricultural and natural areas supporting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds. The edge habitats along the trail attract butterflies and other pollinators. Hawks hunt over the adjacent fields.

The trail passes through Michigan's fruit belt, where cherry orchards, blueberry fields, and vineyards line the route. The corridor itself features shade trees and native plants. Wetland areas along the route support marsh vegetation.

The trail follows the gentle glacial terrain of southwestern Michigan's coastal plain. The soils are ideal for fruit production, having been deposited by glacial processes and moderated by Lake Michigan's influence.

Lake Michigan moderates the climate, creating ideal conditions for fruit growing. Summers are warm, and the lake-effect climate extends the growing season.

The Potawatomi inhabited the region. The railroad that the trail follows was built to serve the agricultural communities and connect them to South Haven's harbor. The fruit industry has been the economic backbone of the area since the late 19th century.

The Van Buren Trail was converted from a railroad corridor to a recreational trail, one of many rail-trail conversions across Michigan.

The 14-mile trail serves hikers, cyclists, and in winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. The route passes through scenic fruit country. South Haven's Lake Michigan beach and harbor are at the western terminus.

Trailheads with parking are located in South Haven and Hartford. The trail surface is gravel and natural. South Haven provides full visitor services.

The trail corridor provides habitat connectivity and green space through the agricultural landscape. Maintenance ensures the trail remains usable year-round.