The 33 mile former railroad bed has a limestone/slag surface. Linking the city of South Haven to the city of Kalamazoo the trail crosses over bridges, passes through small towns and by points of historical interest.

To reach the Kalamazoo trailhead, take US-31 west of Kalamazoo to M-43. Go west on M-43 a quarter mile and drive north on 10th Street two miles. To reach the South Haven trailhead, take I-196 to exit 22 (North Shore Drive) and go west to the Blinking light (Blue Star or A2) go south on Blue Star (A2) for about 1 mile, turn right (west) on Wells Street for a quarter mile, then right (north) on Baily Street to the park entrance.