Gandy Dancer State Trail

The southern trailhead of the Gandy Dancer State Trail is the junction with East Arm Road, which is the southernmost point where ORV traffic can travel on the Gandy Dancer State Trail.

A potential dispersed campsite sits directly beside the road. It is flat and large enough for a few vehicles with ground tents.

Trout Brook is a side trail for street-legal vehicles. After 1.5 miles, the trail turns into an ATV-only trail. Continue straight to follow the Gandy Dancer.

Markville is one of the small, unincorporated towns along the Gandy Dancer State Trail. On the north side of the road resides an old stop, most likely for the train that once ran through here. Additionally, a dated sign points out the blowdown of trees from the major wind storm on July 1, 2011, with winds over 100mph that created an impassable situation. Winds still rush through the area. Bringing a saw with you is advised, as blowdowns can happen after any wind event.

The rail grade becomes obvious on several sections of the trail, with the road raised and sloping down on both sides. These sections are typically in open areas still revegetating after the storm of 2011.

The route crosses several main arterial roads, such as Rutabaga Road. Continue following the Gandy Dancer north or south, depending on your chosen direction of travel.

Driving across the single-width bridge, you can hear the wooden boards below your tires creek and crack. However, the construction is sound, with the lower portion being steel with hefty timbers above that.

This intersection is confusing with a turn and a fork. The Gandy Dancer is clearly marked. However, if the signs are removed, say to the west of the fork. From this point until the Black Lake Bog, anticipate sections with downed timber.

Field signage labels the side road as Rash Road. However, maps and other documentation call it the Park Truck Trail, which is legal for street vehicles.

An example of the type of blowdown that can occur after a wind event, which can be often. As recommended, have the saw handy to prune back potentially vehicle-damaging overhang.

The marshland is impressive but brings the flies and mosquitos! There is ample opportunity to see wildlife, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, red foxes, porcupines, beavers, and muskrats. One might spot coyotes, timber wolves, weasels, minks, bobcats, or black bears on a lucky day. Birds include northern harriers, redtailed hawks, sandhill cranes, bald eagles, osprey, and warblers.

On the western side of the road is a large, flat area for a quick night of camping or pulling over for lunch.

The bog and Black Lake form the headwaters of the Black River. The stone structure was once a pump house. Wildlife is abundant with waterfowl, great blue heron, beaver, and a short-eared owl that may nest in the bog.

The northern end of the bog provides a better view of open water. Many people canoe or kayak into this area from the Black River.

The street legal portion of the Gandy Dancer quickly turns. Follow the posted signage.

The Gandy Dancer intermixes with a network of ATV trails. Continue straight to reach the end.

There is a large parking area for ATV trailers and haul rigs with plenty of space to prepare for or end your trip on the Gandy Dancer.