The Michigan Shore to Shore—A Newbie’s Perspective

by Jeanette Henderson

The idea of crossing the entire state of Michigan on horseback is a daunting proposition, to say the least. Yet, like many riders I’ve met across the country over the years, it had been on my bucket list for awhile now. This year, 2023, it finally came to fruition. And not just one crossing, but two!

The first began at a camp called Stoney Creek, in northern Michigan, and heads south until it meets the East/West trail at

Luzerne Camp. Then it heads east to Oscoda, until you can get your horse’s feet wet in Lake Huron. Technically, we didn’t get to the lake on the north end because of some issue with their camp up there, but they (the Michigan Trail Riders Association) are working on it. Eight straight days of riding about 25 miles a day with no layovers. Needless to say, it was technically and physically challenging for both me and my horse, Flash, a 19year-old Paso Fino, whom I had been conditioning for a couple of months, but nowhere near enough!

The second ride began at the same location, Lake Huron in Oscoda, and moved west over the course of 15 days, with layovers every couple of days or so. Again, the typical ride was about 25 miles, though occasionally it would be shorter, one was an option day of 31 miles (option meaning you would still be able to qualify for a trophy if you opted out, because the length of the ride was longer due to a temporary detour) and the last day to Lake Michigan, less than ten miles. The layovers were very welcome after the previous ride, and there was ample time to rest, socialize, stock up on supplies and generally wind down before it all started up again for the next leg.

As I learned more about the history of this organization, my admiration grew. Stories of volunteers on the ground clearing the initial trails, being guided from the air by a private plane spotting their progress. Countless months and years dealing with multiple bureaucracies, federal, state and local, both to build the trail 60 years ago, and to maintain it and grow it now. It was and is a vision that is generational, with many families intrinsically involved with this national treasure. Having camped with horses in all 48 contiguous states, I have seen the efforts of many groups to create and maintain horse trails, but I can honestly say, none are more impressive than this dedicated group of volunteers. While the Shore-toShore was the most grueling fun I’ve ever had, it is an experience I would highly recommended. If it isn’t already, most definitely put it on your bucket list!

If you’re not quite ready for a full-on immersion experience, you can test the waters at their Family Ride Aug. 5-12. You’ll meet many of the same people that ride the Shore-to-Shore, and perhaps begin to admire the MTRA as much as I do now. And don’t worry, there are plenty of adult activities during the Family Ride. See you there!