By tartanbiker on August 29, 2010
Aug. 26,2010 My wife and I rode this trail from Magnus Park in Petoskey to downtown Charlevoix and back. It was the most enjoyable trail we have been on this year. The only minor complaints were a few driveway crossings were a little rough. The views from the trail when near the water were fantastic. Looking foward to bringing friends up to ride it again.
By dtroll on August 10, 2010
This trail is among the most scenic in the country. It offers numerous staggeringly beautiful views of the picturesque Traverse Bay. It begins on the eastern edge of the quaint town of Harbor Springs, proceeds to loop around the bay, passing through the equally picturesque and quaint town of Petoskey. There are a few overlooks around Bay Harbor. As it proceeds east, it leaves the lake shore for a while, only to return to the lake as one approaches Charlevoix.
For sightseeing, this trail rates an A+. Purely as a trail - if you plopped this trail down in the middle of nowhere, you wouldn't give it better than a C. A serious cyclist can't just get on & crank out 20 miles in an hour, turn around, & crank it back in less time. Parts of it are essentially riding on sidewalks. Numerous road crossings are potential rim busters. The surface varies mile to mile. At points, as it winds through populated areas, its twists & turns make it impossible to really get cranking. This is more of a trail for a tourist/vacationer than a cycling enthusiast. If you go into it with that understanding, you will love it. Slow down & enjoy the views.
By gkdeel on April 12, 2010
Rode all but about 2 miles of the trail. A lot of fantastic views. Liked the fact that there were plenty of places to stop and take a break. It is a safe trail that does not require road crossing that made me feel safe with my 11 & 12 year old boys. Highly recommend. There are not any steep climbs so folks like me who only ride a few times a year can enjoy it. The segment around bay harbor is especially pretty so if you are not going to do the whole trail, make sure you do that segment.