The Poto is a trail with contradictory reputations.

“It’s the best trail in Lower Michigan!” This statement often comes from people who probably have not ridden some of the best trails in Lower Michigan, and many of Lower Michigan’s trails have fans who say this about their favorite trails.

“It’s okaaaaay, very eroded. You’d like such-and-such better.” Of course, every trail also has a group of riders that don’t appreciate that trail.

Hm.

A cool rocky section near the beginning of the Poto.

Glen, Ali, and I rode the Poto, Sunday. I have a few comments.

• The Poto was nothing like what I expected;
• The Poto was hard-packed with minimal loose areas from erosion;
• Really, the only obvious evidence of erosion were the root steps;
• There is a significant [enough] number of Lower Michigan mountain bikers who don’t like real mountain biking, but prefer trails that are likened to paved bike paths;
• This trail was frickin’ awesome!

Ali and I discussed the trail after our ride and we both had the same reaction: after what we had heard about the Poto, we didn’t expect much, but were shocked—in a good way—by how fun and well-built this trail was.

Zack, Glen, and Ali.

The Poto is an intermediate trail (big surprise, there ) with much different characteristics than the other intermediate trails I’ve ridden. This trail is >>>FAST and flowy. In fact, there are plenty of opportunities to gain crazy speeds only to have an “oh shit” moment because of root placements or sand; from my experience, this is more prevalent on the second half of the trail. As I said, it is an intermediate trail, but certain trail features cause it to lean towards advanced. Experience and good bike-handling skills are useful with this trail.

The climbs are fun. They hurt. They’re steep. Some of them require great, tight steering ability while climbing. Some of them require that you be able to pop your tire up onto a root and not spin out when the rear tire hits it.

Turtle playing on the Poto.

I can see how sand can become an issue with this trail throughout the summer. I think this is from where the bad reputation comes. Having said that, the Poto may be more similar to Yankee Springs in the sense that it is best for early-season and post-rain rides.

The Poto is the type of trail that always keeps you thinking. If you get too comfortable, something will pop up that will take you down.