The Macomb Orchard Trail is named after the many historically-significant orchards that dot the surrounding landscape. Once completed, the 23.5 mile trail will provide users with a safe pedestrian friendly environment where they can exercise and explore the scenic urban and rural landscapes of Macomb County, free from cars and other motorized vehicles.

The trail is located in the abandoned Canadian National Rail Road (CNR) corridor. The trail will be 10 foot wide and will have asphalt in suburban and city areas and crushed limestone in the rural areas. The corridor will also contain amenities such as restrooms, benches, covered picnic tables, and water fountains. The trail is open to walkers, joggers, bicyclists, and rollerbladers. Certain areas will allow equestrian.

The Macomb Orchard Trail will be developed in two separate phases. The first phase, completed in the summer of 2004, stretches from Dequindre to 29 Mile Road. Phase 2 will stretch from 29 Mile Road to Main Street in the City of Richmond.

The surrounding communities and rural landscapes make the Macomb Orchard Trail a unique and noteworthy resource for Michigan residents. It will allow citizens to experience Macomb County’s mix of rural and urban living, historic architecture and community festivals, seasonal specialties of apples and pumpkins, and beautiful natural resources. The opportunities for non-motorized transportation and connections across the County, between adjoining counties, and across the State will make it a critical link for residents through the southern tier of Michigan. Locally, it will connect residents to parklands, downtowns, businesses, schools, residences, and open spaces. Regionally, it will provide a connection from St. Clair County to Oakland County. And on a state-wide basis, it will become a leg of the interconnected trail system that will ultimately link Lake Huron to Lake Michigan.