Shale Beach

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4.5/5 (2 reviews)
Drummond Island, Michigan (Chippewa County)
Last Updated: 07/17/2022

Trail Information

Highlights

Normally shale rock is sharp and jagged, but millions of years of natural waves against these shores have created nearly 2 miles of pebbled beach. The white round stones make a distinctive sound as the giant natural rock tumbler of waves rolls down the shoreline. This is a great place to stop for lunch or even camp as the views of Lake Huron and Canada are in the distance. The trail that is Shale Beach isn’t very long but shares traits from its neighbors. While it is mostly dirt throughout, it does have a spot with a deep mud pit and some rocks to be aware of. The trail to this isolated beach may not be that easy, but it is worth it.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.5/5 (2)
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Official Crew
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47250
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 07/17/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This was one of the more bumpy, rocky trails on Drummond Island. The view of Lake Huron at the end of the trail is worth the slow rugged ride. The island visible across the channel from the end of the trail is actually Canada. It's not that far away. The trail was quite a bit drier when we ran the trail which made the ride less stressful.
Trail Review: Shale Beach - Tim Palmer
Trail Review: Shale Beach - Tim Palmer
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Official Crew
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123000
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 11/09/2020

One of my favorite trails on the island, mostly because of the destination. This beach was something special. As we stood on the beach, the noise of the rocks as the waves worked them was hypnotic. I walked down the beach for a bit and it would be a great place to set up a small picnic on a nice day. This one is a highly recommended break from the difficult trails in this area of the island.
Trail Review: Shale Beach - JD Marshall

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