Kalamazoo River Valley Trail | Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo River Valley Trail (KRVT) is a scenic, non-motorized, multi-use trail system in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, designed to connect the region’s urban, suburban, and natural landscapes. It stretches across more than 24 miles of paved surface and is envisioned as part of a 140+ mile regional trail network linking Kalamazoo to surrounding communities like Battle Creek, Galesburg, and Portage.

Trail Concept and Design

The trail was developed to promote healthy living, environmental conservation, and alternative transportation. It follows the Kalamazoo River corridor and winds through a variety of landscapes—wetlands, parks, wooded stretches, and downtown Kalamazoo. The trail has a consistent 10-foot-wide asphalt surface, making it safe and accessible for walking, running, biking, skating, and wheelchair use.

Major Trail Segments

10th Street to Westnedge Avenue

Begins near the Kal-Haven Trailhead on 10th Street and stretches eastward.

Passes through lightly forested suburban neighborhoods.

Serves as a connection between the rural western parts of the county and Kalamazoo’s urban core.

Downtown Kalamazoo Segment

This part routes users through the heart of the city.

Connects to Arcadia Creek Festival Place, Bronson Park, and numerous shops, galleries, and eateries.

Designed with wayfinding signs to guide trail users through a shared space with local traffic and sidewalks.

Verburg Park to Kalamazoo Nature Center

A popular and scenic route along the Kalamazoo River.

Features interpretive signage, river overlooks, and wildlife observation points.

Leads into the Kalamazoo Nature Center’s trail network, merging recreation with environmental education.

River Oaks County Park to Galesburg

Eastern section connects to open green spaces and recreational fields.

Offers rest stops, restroom access, and picnic areas.

Link to Mayor’s Riverfront Park

A brief but well-used connector passing through wooded areas and urban edges.

Provides access to stadiums, public transit stops, and riverfront facilities.

Recreational Features and Activities

Cycling and Running: The smooth, uninterrupted surface makes the KRVT an ideal venue for both casual riders and serious cyclists. Runners and marathon trainers often use long segments for distance work.

Walking and Hiking: Frequent rest benches, gentle elevation, and shaded areas make the trail accessible for all age groups.

Nature and Birdwatching: Especially near the Kalamazoo Nature Center, the trail offers abundant flora and fauna, including herons, turtles, songbirds, and deer.

Fishing and Water Views: Portions of the trail run parallel to the Kalamazoo River, offering serene water views and occasional fishing access points.

Trail Amenities

Rest Areas: Equipped with benches, water fountains (seasonal), and shaded shelters.

Trail Signage: Includes mile markers, interpretive historical/environmental signs, and maps at key intersections.

Bike Racks and Fix-It Stations: Located at trailheads and major parks.

Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash (under 6 feet); pet waste stations are installed in high-traffic zones.

Restrooms: Available at adjacent parks and larger trailheads.

Accessibility

The entire Kalamazoo River Valley Trail is ADA-compliant. The trail’s gentle grades, wide surface, and minimal road crossings make it suitable for people with mobility devices, parents with strollers, and elderly walkers.

Connections to Other Trails

Kal-Haven Trail: A major westward link that stretches 33.5 miles from Kalamazoo to South Haven on Lake Michigan. Ideal for long-distance cycling and touring.

Portage Bicentennial Park Trail: Connects via side routes, allowing a seamless journey south into Portage’s trail system.

Battle Creek Linear Park (planned future connection): Part of the county's regional trail plan, this would enable eastward continuity.

Environmental Stewardship and Community Involvement

The KRVT incorporates environmentally conscious design. Bridges and boardwalks preserve sensitive wetlands, and native plants are used for trail landscaping. Regular clean-up days, volunteer maintenance crews, and donor-supported amenities reflect the community's investment in the trail.

Current and Future Improvements

Downtown Detour (2024–2026): A re-routing project through the Michigan Avenue cycle track is under way due to infrastructure upgrades. Trail users are redirected around construction zones via signed bike routes.

Planned Extensions:

Extend the trail northeast toward Augusta and Fort Custer.

Complete the trail loop along the east riverbank to enhance city-to-nature transitions.

Upgraded Amenities:

Installation of more shaded rest stops.

Improved directional signage and digital trail map integration.

Conclusion

The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail stands as a model for sustainable, accessible urban greenways. It weaves together outdoor recreation, environmental appreciation, cultural points of interest, and active transportation. Whether for fitness, commuting, nature exploration, or family outings, the KRVT offers a year-round resource that reflects Kalamazoo County’s commitment to health, connectivity, and quality of life.