Riverview Trail

100 West Main Street

Location & Length

The Flushing Riverview Trail is a 1.4-mile non-motorized path that begins in downtown Flushing at the Main Street Bridge and winds west through forest and wetlands along the Flint River to Flushing County Park. This paved and boardwalk trail is part of the city’s park system and was developed through a partnership between the City of Flushing, Flushing Township and Genesee County Parks using federal transportation enhancement funds.

Route & Scenery

Starting near Riverview Park and the Bicentennial Walkway downtown, the trail hugs the Flint River’s wooded banks. It crosses Cole Creek on a 72-foot pedestrian bridge and the Flint River on a 200-foot bridge, providing sweeping views of water and forest. Between these bridges, the trail passes through wetlands and forested areas where visitors can see wildflowers, birds and other wildlife. The path continues west to Flushing County Park, where it ends near park facilities and additional trails.

Features & Amenities

Rest areas & benches: The trail includes several rest-area bump-outs with benches and picnic tables made from logs cut along the trail route. These provide spots to relax and enjoy views of the river and forest.
ADA-accessible: A pedestrian bridge along the route offer opportunities for riverside viewing. All paths are low slopes, hard material and at least 10 feet wide. These features were designed to be ADA accessible, giving wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges a chance to enjoy the river.
Surface: The trail is paved with asphalt and includes boardwalk sections across wet areas. It is suitable for walking, jogging, biking and roller sports.
Riverview Park access: The downtown trailhead at Riverview Park provides picnic areas, a playscape and restrooms within a short walk. A Bicentennial Walkway connects the park to Main Street, allowing visitors to explore downtown shops before or after their trail excursion.

Trail Etiquette & Use

Hours: The Riverview Trail is generally open from dawn to dusk (in line with city park hours). Use outside daylight hours is discouraged due to lack of lighting.
Non-motorized use: Only non-motorized activities (walking, running, biking, rollerblading) are permitted. Motor vehicles and motorized scooters are not allowed.

Seasonal Use: Open year-round. Popular in spring and fall for nature viewing, summer for river access and events, and winter for walking and informal cross-country skiing.

Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash and owners should clean up after them.
Fishing: The trail’s fishing pier and riverbanks offer spots to fish. Anglers should follow Michigan Department of Natural Resources regulations and carry appropriate licenses.
Carry in, carry out: Visitors are encouraged to carry out all trash to preserve the natural beauty of the river and wetlands.

At its downtown end, the Riverview Trail connects seamlessly with Riverview Park and the Bicentennial Walkway, leading into Flushing’s historic Main Street. At its western end, the trail terminates in Flushing County Park, where users can access park amenities and additional walking trails. You can continue through the park and access city sidewalks where you can complete your journey back downtown.

Why Visit?
The Riverview Trail offers a quiet escape into nature just steps from downtown Flushing. Its paved, accessible path with boardwalks, rest areas, scenic river crossings and ADA-friendly fishing opportunities make it a valuable asset for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re out for exercise, a leisurely stroll, bird-watching or fishing, the Riverview Trail invites you to enjoy the Flint River’s beauty in all seasons.