Electric mountain bikes are changing the way riders explore the outdoors. Whether you’re looking to tackle more climbs, ride longer distances, or simply enjoy more miles of singletrack, an e-MTB can open the door to some incredible adventures. If you’re planning a mountain biking getaway in West Michigan, Dragon Adventures Base Camp (DABC), near Hardy Dam in Newaygo County, makes a great home base for exploring the region.
But before you hit the trails, there’s one important thing to know: Not every mountain bike trail allows electric bikes. We’ve put together a guide to help you find e-bike-friendly riding opportunities, understand local regulations, and plan your next adventure.
1. Mosquito Creek Trails – Twin Lake, Michigan
Best for: Flow trails, wooded scenery, and riders of varying abilities
If you’re looking for a great singletrack experience on your electric mountain bike, Mosquito Creek Trails deserves a spot near the top of your list. Located in Muskegon County near Twin Lake, this trail system features nearly 12 miles of trails through rolling terrain, wooded ravines, and the beautiful Mosquito Creek valley.
What makes Mosquito Creek special?
- Professionally designed singletrack with flowing turns and enjoyable elevation changes
- Trails suited to different skill levels
- A scenic forest setting with plenty of variety
- An excellent place to enjoy the climbing assistance of an e-MTB
E-bike access: Class 1 pedal-assist electric mountain bikes are permitted, according to the trail association’s published authorization.
Trail information: https://www.mosquitocreektrails.org/
2. Hungerford Lake Trails – Big Rapids, Michigan
Best for: Scenic forest riding, rolling terrain, and shorter Class 1 e-MTB adventures
Located just west of Big Rapids in the Manistee National Forest, Hungerford Lake offers a beautiful setting for mountain biking, with wooded singletrack, rolling hills, and a peaceful atmosphere. While the larger Hungerford Lake trail system features approximately 10–12 miles of mountain biking trails, Trailforks identifies two loops totaling approximately 3 miles of Class 1 e-bike-friendly riding.
Why ride Hungerford Lake?
- Two loops totaling approximately 3 miles identified for Class 1 e-bike riding
- Beautiful wooded terrain and natural scenery
- Rolling hills and enjoyable singletrack
- A great option for a shorter ride while exploring the Big Rapids area
Hungerford Lake is a great addition to a West Michigan e-MTB getaway, particularly for riders who want to enjoy a shorter trail experience surrounded by nature.
E-bike access: Trailforks identifies approximately 3 miles across two loops as supporting Class 1 e-bikes. Since these trails are federally managed, confirm current authorization with the U.S. Forest Service before riding. Do not assume the entire Hungerford Lake trail system is open to e-bikes.
Trail map: View Hungerford Lake on Trailforks
3. Merrell Trail – Rockford, Michigan
Best for: Fast-flowing singletrack, berms, jumps, and exciting descents
Merrell Trail, located near Rockford, is one of the Grand Rapids area’s most popular mountain biking destinations.
This professionally built trail system features approximately 8 miles of singletrack designed to keep riders smiling from start to finish.
With its flowing corners, rolling terrain, tabletop jumps, and fun descents, Merrell offers an exciting riding experience for intermediate riders while providing opportunities for newer riders to build their skills.
Why ride Merrell Trail?
- Approximately 8 miles of purpose-built singletrack
- Flowing berms, jumps, and fast descents
- A great mix of climbing and descending
- A fun destination for riders looking to improve their skills
One unique feature of Merrell is that the riding direction changes depending on the day of the week. Be sure to follow the posted directional arrows.
E-bike access: Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted under Plainfield Township’s applicable trail rules. Check current signage, trail conditions, and restrictions before visiting.
Merrell makes an excellent addition to a West Michigan mountain biking getaway, especially for riders who enjoy flow trails and a little extra excitement.
4. Gravel and Forest Road Adventures Around Newaygo County
Best for: Longer scenic rides, exploring backroads, and mixed-surface adventures
Not every great e-bike adventure has to take place on traditional singletrack.
The Newaygo County region offers a beautiful mix of rural roads, wooded landscapes, and forest scenery. For riders who enjoy exploring, a properly planned gravel or forest-road route can make for an excellent e-bike outing. These adventures can be particularly appealing to riders who want to enjoy the outdoors without the constant technical demands of mountain bike singletrack. We can help you create a great route!
Are E-Bikes Allowed on Michigan’s Dragon Trail?
We get this question often at Dragon Adventures Base Camp.
Electric bicycles, including Class 1 pedal-assist e-MTBs, are currently prohibited on the Dragon Trail.
The Dragon is managed separately from Michigan DNR state trails, and its official regulations specifically prohibit all variants of e-bikes. If you’re bringing an electric mountain bike, you’ll want to plan your riding on other approved trails. For riders bringing traditional mountain bikes, the Dragon remains an unforgettable adventure and one of the main reasons to visit our area.
Official trail rules: https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/faqs/
Understanding Michigan’s E-Bike Classes
Before planning a ride, make sure you understand which category your bike falls into.
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with motor assistance ending at 20 mph. This is the class most commonly permitted on approved natural-surface mountain bike trails.
- Class 2: Includes a throttle, with motor assistance up to 20 mph. These are more restricted on Michigan DNR-managed trails, where a special mobility permit is required.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph. These are not permitted on Michigan DNR-managed trails.
Always check the rules of the individual trail system. Local parks, private property owners, and trail managers may have different policies.
Don’t Have an E-Bike? Rent One at Dragon Adventures Base Camp!
Want to experience the fun of electric mountain biking without purchasing your own bike? We’ve got you covered!
Dragon Adventures Base Camp now offers electric mountain bike rentals!
Whether you’re curious about trying an e-MTB for the first time, traveling without your own bike, or simply want to see what all the excitement is about, renting an e-bike is a great way to experience the trails of West Michigan. Electric mountain bikes provide pedal assistance that makes climbing more enjoyable, helps you cover more ground, and gives you the confidence to explore new terrain.
Why rent an e-MTB from DABC?
- Experience the fun of pedal-assist mountain biking without the commitment of buying.
- Explore e-bike-friendly trails like Mosquito Creek, Merrell Trail, and the designated Class 1 loops at Hungerford Lake, subject to current trail rules.
- Get local trail recommendations and help planning your riding adventure.
- Make it a complete getaway with camping or cabin accommodations at Dragon Adventures Base Camp.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just discovering the sport, we’re here to help you find your next adventure.
Contact Dragon Adventures Base Camp to learn more about our electric mountain bike rentals, availability, and recommended riding destinations.
Trail access rules can change. Always verify current e-bike permissions, trail conditions, and seasonal closures with the managing organization before riding.
Keep Exploring!
Mark and Amy
