Frequently Asked Questions
General
Is Tioga Recreation Area Free?
Yes, accessing Tioga Recreation Area is and always will be free for everyone. Permits are required for special events. Inquire with the City of Cohasset for more information.
Is the rec area always open?
There are no closing hours, however trails can be closed due to weather during all seasons. Please review the 'Trail Closures' section below. Understanding closures is important to help us maintain quality trails!
Do I need to pay for parking?
Parking is free at all parking areas within the recreation area.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are allowed. It is recommended that pets be leashed at all times. Be aware that biking with your dog is a hazard to other riders.
Are there bathrooms?
Yes, there are bathrooms at the trailhead and at Tioga Beach.
Is drinking water available?
No, there is not drinking water available at the trailhead or beaches.
Can I camp in the Rec Area?
No, there is no camping at the trailhead, parking areas, or beaches.
Is there a lifeguard?
There is no lifeguard on duty at either of the beaches. Swim at your own risk.
What trails can I hike on?
Hiking is allowed on all trails, but hiking on designated bike trails is inherently dangerous as cyclists are moving at high speeds. Hiking on haul roads is recommended. Obey all wrong way signs.
What trails can I snowshoe on?
Snowshoeing is allowed and encouraged on all trails and helps pack the trails for winter biking.
Why do you need donations?
We need funds to pay for equipment for our volunteer maintenance crew and for professional builders to keep the trails maintained.
Where can I learn about volunteer opportunities?
The Grand Rapids Itasca Mountain Bike Association maintains the trails, hosts events, and raises funds for the trails. Learn more at www.grimba.org.
Mountain biking Rules & ettiquette
What are the trail rules?
- Helmets are required.
- Ride open trails only.
- Always ride in control and be aware of your surroundings.
- Respect the landscape.
- Share the trail and respect all riders and hikers.
- Obey trail signs and wrong ways.
- Do not do anything that degrades the trail.
- Call out ‘behind’ or ‘pass’ if you want to pass.
- If someone wants to pass, pull over when safe to let them.
- Do not brake suddenly in the middle of the trail.
- Do not stop in the middle of the trail and watch or wait for people.
- In addition to these rules, please review the rules of the trail as ascribed here by the International Mountain Bicycling Association.
What ages and skill levels are the MTB trails suitable for?
Tioga has trails for all ages and skills levels, from kids and entry-level riders to experts looking for big jump lines and double-black diamond trails.
Where should I report trail maintenance needs?
Please send any trail issues to grimbamn@gmail.com or log them on Trailforks.
Trail Closures
How do I know if the trails are closed for biking or hiking?
- If your tires or boots leave a mark, THE TRAILS ARE CLOSED.
- If there is standing water, THE TRAILS ARE CLOSED.
- For rain events of less than 2” wait 24 hours before riding.
- For rain events of more than 2", wait at least 24 hours and check for trail reopening reports.
- We use the Trailbot app to post trail updates and recommend checking conditions before arriving at the trailhead. It is essential to the quality of our trails that we all obey trail closures.
Are the trails open now?
Check current trail conditions and get notifications on trail openings and closures with the Trailbot App.