McGregor Hiking Trail

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This trail works great in conjunction with the Marquette evacuation route to traverse the bluff separating the two cities, enabling longer runs that loop in Bloody Run, Effigy Mounds, or Pike's Peak.

Trailheads are near the top of Center Street and at the bottom of Cemetery Street; only the Cemetery Street Trailhead has dedicated parking.

If driving to the trailhead on Cemetery Street, look for signs and cross an old bridge to find the parking area; the parking area and bridge is an easement through private property so please stay on route until you get into the woods!

From Cemetery Street, the trail begins with a short climb before following contouring along the hillside and up an old road bed. A nice grassy area carries users to the top of the ridge, along which the trail heads for another few hundred feet. It then drops down to the right (east) side of the ridge, passing through a scenic old pine plantation before crossing the first ravine; usually the water flow is gentle enough to keep the feet dry. Once across the ravine, a series of switchbacks keeps the grade mellow before approaching the end.

About 0.1 miles before the end, there is one more ravine to cross; stepping stones help you keep out of the muck, but they can be slippery, so use caution.

Shortly thereafter, users will pop out at the top of Center Street; turn left to head towards the Marquette Evacuation Route, or right to head back to the parking area, or just turn around and enjoy the descent of the climb you just completed!

This trail travels through a woodland that has been protected as flood mitigation since the 1940's. The timber is diverse in terms of age, size, and number of species. A staggering number of deer are packed into the small acreage, and wild turkey are common as well.