Explore the best rated trails in Elk Rapids, MI, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Boyne Valley Trailway and Buffalo Ridge Trail . With more than 18 trails covering 423 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 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.
Do you know how much I love the white pine trail? So much! Particularly, between Cadillac and Reed City. Such beautiful woods, marshes, streams, farms, wide open spaces, snakes, turtles, frogs, birds, eagles, hawks, cows, horses, pileated woodpeckers, indigo buntings, and so many other friends. I am a cyclist, runner, and hiker. I've had some of my best runs, hikes, and bike rides on this trail. Chi miigwech ~ thank you!
Also, horses are not allowed but I have seen horse poop between Tustin and LeRoy. I supposed the Amish community use the trail but they can also use the roads. I hope this gets better enforced. As the signs note along the trail equestrian, snowmobile, and motorized vehicles are prohibited. You may see a DNR vehicle from time to time.
I agree with drwelldog's review from July 2022. The WPT from Cadillac to Reed City is heaven on earth! However, from Reed City to Big Rapids it is paved but bumpy, worn, rough, and there are some potholes. I usually ride between 13-15 mph so I had to slow down to not hit bump after bump. I know a section south is being paved but looks like this section could use an update. The bushes also need to be trimmed back so you can better see through the foliage. We want the woods to be as they are but also safety is key, especially for solo riders.
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.
July 2023 we rode from Mackinac Bridge to Petoskey. Leaving Mack City, the trail was paved for a short distance then switched to pea sized gravel that seemed freshly placed and was slightly loose in some spots until Alanson where it was paved all the way to Petoskey. We rode with 40mm tire gravel bikes and had no issues. Smooth road bike tires would likely be challenging in looser gravel and sand at some road crossings. With 25 or 28mm, with strong confidence and bike handling skills, it might be okay. Scenery was true upper MI forest with very few views of water. Petoskey Brewing at the end of the trail also has good food. Would recommend the trail!
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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