Explore the best rated trails in Traverse City, MI, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Buffalo Ridge Trail and Boyne Valley Trailway . With more than 18 trails covering 458 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
I walked, and occasionally ran, the trial northbound over four days. This is easily one of the most beautiful rail trails I've ever traveled and is one of Michigan's real jewels. The trail quickly becomes rural after leaving Grand Rapids, and then just gets steadily better and better scenery wise (this assumes that you love Northwoods). People debate where the Northwoods begin, and you can form your own opinion on your journey north. I'd argue that Big Rapids is the line. And speaking of, don't forget to celebrate 50 miles covered there at the Sawmill, right on the trailside.
The only downside to the trail is the fact that it's paved (excepting a few miles between Howard City and Big Rapids). When walking 25+ miles a day, the surface of the trail becomes a major factor. Crushed limestone is much kinder to the pedestrian body than pavement. Pavement also encourages folks to ride their ebikes at 30mph, unfortunately, making the trail more like a road near the towns. But that drawback aside, I'll certainly be back to do this trail again.
I decided to take my road bike for a trip from Cadillac down to Big Rapids where the trail is closed for paving and back to Cadillac. I agree with Cecelia's review from Sep, 23 in that the asphalt paving is old and bumpy between Reed City and Big Rapids. Also the trail was closed between Hibma Rd south to Cleveland Rd in Tustin. The detour is gravel roads that are loose sand and very difficult to navigate with 32mm or thinner tires!
With the exception of the portion of trail north of Reed City that runs along Hwy 131 the the scenery is awesome running through rivers, hills, valleys, farms and small towns.
I am wondering if there's anyone assigned to blow the trail clean from leaves, twigs and branches? There were quite a bit of that along the way. In comparison to the Macomb/Orchard trail for example which is very well maintained all year round it seemed a bit unkempt.
Overall it is an awesome trail that I hope is better maintained than what I experienced on my recent trip and look forward to returning next year when the whole trail will be paved.
Cycling between Port Oneida and Good Harbor is beautiful and less touristy. If you want to do some dirt road cycling there are a few detours you can take just off the trail. Love this trail!
I’ve ridden this trail many times from Topinabee to Wolverine and back; topinabee to cheboygan and back. Great trail for gravel bike. Well maintained, safe, and very scenic.
This trail is closed from Howard City to Big Rapids Michigan. According to the local people it will take until November of this year to finish paving. It is a 21 mile stretch of the trail. We had to turn around.
Easy parking and nice clean trail.
I have ridden my bike on this trail multiple times at different times of the year. It’s a nice easy 4 mile loop. There’s a good pizza restaurant nearby. Nice views. It’s pleasant seeing people pushing their babies in strollers, riding bikes, and walking, and enjoying this beautiful scenery.
This surprised and delighted us. It’s serene, the nature is stunning, and it’s a birders paradise. Our new favorite spot ¿¿
We started in Glen Arbor and biked to Empire & back. 15 miles one way. Challenging ride with several hills. Passes the Dune climb. Beautiful ride. Grocers Daughter Chocolates in Empire has great chocolate, Espresso drinks & gelato.
Started in East Park and rode to downtown Charlevoix & back. 15 miles one way. Mix of sun & shade. A couple of lake views. Long stretch of boardwalk. Go to the The Happy Troll for lunch. Great sandwiches. Look for the Mushroom Houses in Charlevoix.
Started at Feuch Trailhead. Rode to Sutton Bay. 12 miles one way. Very scenic ride with Vineyards & Orchards. Look for Leo Creek Preserve. Near Suttons Bay. Beautiful garden area. We stopped in Hansens Market and picked up Deli Sandwiches. Ate our lunch at the Leo Creek Preserve (don’t miss this preserve absolutely beautiful). Suttons Bay is a quaint town.
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