Area Trail Guide and Key
Trail Key
The following key is used to designate the activities you can pursue on each trail:
IS = In-line Skating
RB = Road Biking
MB = Mountain Biking
H/W/R = Hiking/Walking/Running
Trail Rating System
Use the rating system below to find a trail best suited to your needs:
Thigh Burner***Steeper, longer hills, resonable fitness and some technical cycling skills required. Warning: You'll encounter serious athletes on this trail!
Just Do It**Some hills, but only moderately strenuous for most abilities. Suitable for both older children and fit, mature adults.
No Sweat*An easy hike or a good beginner's ride. Kid friendly.
Boardman Lake Trail
Traverse City, MIBrown Bridge Pond Natural Area/Nature Preserve*
(MB, RB, H/W/R, IS)- The east-side trail was complete in October 2005. The trail extends from Hull Park (behind the Traverse Area District Library) to Medalie Park (off South Airport Road). The nearly 2-mile trail is paved for the northern mile and is crushed limestone for the southern mile. Parking is available at both parks. A complete loop around the lake is in the planning stages. For more information, contact TART Trails at (231) 941-4300.
Traverse City, MI
(MB, H/W/R) - One of the area's best kept secrets, this city quiet area surrounds Brown Bridge Pond, a small scenic lake created by a dam on the Boardman River. The trails on the north side of the property offer serene stands of oak, several large viewing platforms that jut out precipitously over a steep lakeside bluff, and a wonderful section of tail that parallels the Boardman River. River and lake access are won by negotiating either of two very long sets of stairs -- climbing them is a great workout, but the risers are short enough to make the incline doable for just about anyone if you take is slow (there are benches midway). The water, swans gliding by and a mix of hardwood and evergreen trees on the southern shore of the pond make this one of the places to enjoy fall color. Take Garfield Avenue south to Hobbs Highway to Brown Bridge Road. There are two parking area on the right.
Grass River Natural Area*
Traverse City, MI
(H/W/R) - The 3.5 miles of foot paths and boardwalk winding through an 1,100-acre preserve of forests, swamps, bogs and river shoreline provide access to this unique and beautiful section of the Chain of Lakes. Eagles and other wildlife can be seen here. There are two viewing platforms overlooking the Grass River and a beautiful sedge meadow. Naturalists are often on-site during the summer months offering classes and interpretive programs. This is an interesting hike for the whole family. Located off CR 618, four miles north of Alden.
Lake Ann Pathway (Chain of Lakes)* - ***
Lake Ann, MI
(MB, H/W/R) - The trails at the Lake Ann Pathway are divided into two distinctly different loops. The longer series of loops on the west side of Reynolds Road are the more strenuous. Covering a total of 3.5 miles, with several shortcut options to choose from, you'll pass both Shavenaugh and Mary's Lake and a short section of the Platte River on your way up and down this roller coaster ride of a trail. The outer section of the trail between markers #7 and #9 is the most advanced with several large hills between #7 and #8. The eastern portion of the trail is 1.8 miles long and meanders gently along the Platte and the Lake Ann Shoreline -- it makes a great cool down loop after you've conquered the other side. Keep your eyes peeled -- if you're lucky you'll see some pink lady's slippers; they're rumored to be abundant in and around this trail. Take US 31 west from Interlochen and turn left on Reynolds Road.
Peninsula Township Park (Old Mission)*
Traverse City, MI
(MB, H/W/R) - This pretty little park, located smack dab on the 45th parallel at the tip of the Old Mission Peninsula, has several miles of developed trail and about 40 acres of forest and abandoned orchards that can be explored. Most of the marked trail is flat and hard for easy riding. If you go off on your own on some of the farm lanes, you'll find a few small climbs. This trail system has the added benefit of being adjacent to one of the area's most beautiful beaches. The shallow waters off the point warm up faster than the rest of Grand Traverse Bay, so be sure to pack your suit for a refreshing swim after enjoying the trails.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive***
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(RB, IS, H/W/R) Not actually a trail, nonetheless, ambitious cyclists can test their quads and their lungs on this 7.1-mile paved drive that winds through beautiful hardwoods up to the dune plateau some 450 feet above Lake Michigan. Yet another amazing view awaits at the Main Dune Overlook. Take a Gatorade break at the view platform before embarking on what has got to be one of the area's most hair-raising downhill rides. Check your breaks before you start down! Entrance to the drive is on M 109 between Glen Haven and Empire in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park's trails. Also, the park collects visitor's fees of $10 per vehicle or $20 for an annual pass.
Sand Lakes Quiet Area**
Traverse City, MI
(MB, H/W/R) - All motorized vehicles are banned in this serenely beautiful preserve just east of Traverse City. This hilly property offers almost 10 miles of interconnecting trails and is dotted with several small fishing lakes. The outer loop is about eight miles around and winds through a variety of terrain. There are some good hills on this part, but most are pretty negotiable even for beginners. You can shorten your trip by taking any number of sections that bisect the main trail; however, several of these have some really steep hills, especially between markers 7 and 13. Take M 72 east to Broomhead Road, turn right. The trailhead is four miles south on the left.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Alligator Trail**-***
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - Three loops of 4-5K (2.5-3mi.) each plus a spur trail of 1.3K (.8 mi.) located off the first loop. These hilly trails wind through a beech-maple forest, brushy fields and a pine plantation. There is a view of Lake Michigan along the first loop and a view of Glen Lake at the end of the spur trail. Both views are somewhat obscured by trees. Horses are permitted on this trail. Trailhead: From M 109, 1.6K (1 mi.) north of the Dune Climb, turn onto Day Farm Road. At Stocking Road turn left. Or take Stocking Road south from M 109 just east of D.H. Day Campground. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Bay View Trail**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - An 11K (7 mi.) hilly trail divided into several shorter loops through a beech-maple forest, old farm fields and a pine plantation. The Lookout Point on the loop north of Thoreson Road provides a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. Trailhead: Northbound vehicles take the second Thoreson Road junction off M 22, (5.6K [3.5 mi.] north of Glen Arbor). The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Cottonwood Trail***
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 2.4K (1.5 mi.) loop of moderately rolling dunes with grasses, shrubs and wildflowers of the dunes along the path. Part of this trail is through loose sand and is strenuous. Trailhead: Stop #4 on the Pierce Stocking Drive. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Sleeping Bear Point Trail***
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 4.5K (2.8 mi) loop through moderately rolling dunes. The path is adorned with grasses, shrubs and wildflowers of the dunes. A short spur near the beginning of the trail leads out to Lake Michigan. If you plan to walk the entire loop, go prepared with water, sturdy shoes, a hat, suntan lotion and sunglasses. Much of this trail is through loose sand and is strenuous. Trailhead: Take the gravel road 1.2K (.7 mi.) west from the Maritime Museum in Glen Haven. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Dunes Trail***
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 5.6K (3.5 mi.) round trip to Lake Michigan requiring approximately 3-4 hours to complete. The path is adorned with grasses, shrubs and wildflowers of the dunes. The terrain is steep and is strenuous with rugged dunes and loose sand. Drinking water, sturdy shoes, suntan lotion, a hat and sunglasses are recommended. Trailhead: The Dune Climb off M 109 (8.1K [5 mi.] north of Empire). The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes - Duneside Accessible Trail*
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - A 2.9K (1.8 mi.) round trip through a field and moist woods, this trail is designed for use by all park visitors including those using wheelchairs and persons with visual impairments. The terrain is flat. Signs along the trail interpret trees, bird life and other aspects of nature. This information is available on cassette tape which can be borrowed along with a cassette player at the park visitor center in Empire. Mosquitoes are abundant along the wooded half of the trail during warm weather. Be prepared. Trailhead: North end of Dune Climb off M 109 (8.1K [5mi.] north of Empire). The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Empire Bluff**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 2.4K (1.5mi.) round trip through a beech-maple forest, open fields and dunes with a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. The terrain is hilly. Stop at the trailhead for a self-guiding brochure describing the scenery. Trailhead: Wilco Road off M-22, (2.7K [1.7mi] south of Empire). The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Good Harbor Bay*
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - A flat 4.5K (2.8mi.) loop, this trail is mostly wooded with a short section of low dunes near the start. It is wet in places. Trailhead: Take M-22 to County Road 669 (13K [8 mi.] north of Glen Arbor). Follow 669 toward Lake Michigan. Turn right on Lake Michigan Road and follow it to the trailhead. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Old Indian Trail*
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - There are two scenic loops of flat to gently rolling trails, each about 4K (2.5 mi.), through a forest of evergreens and hardwoods. The trail leads to a view of Lake Michigan and a wide expanse of low beach dunes. The trailhead is located on M-22 just north of Sutter Road. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Platte Plains Trail**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This trail consists of three loops totaling 23.6K (14.7 mi.) of mostly flat terrain through pine plantations, open fields and, near Lake Michigan, some low beach dunes. There are some short, steep hills on the Lasso Loop that leads to the White Pine Backcountry Campground. Two trailheads are available. For Otter Creek Trailhead: Take M-22 to Esch Road, (6.5K [4 mi.] south of Empire), turn west and proceed almost to Lake Michigan. Park on wide shoulder and walk south on unpaved road to trailhead. This also provides access to the Otter Creek Loop. Trail's End Trailhead: Drive to the end of Trail's End Road off M-22, (9.7K [6 mi.] south of Empire). This also provides access to Otter Creek Loop and Bass Lake Loop. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Pyramid Point**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This trail leads to a high, panoramic view of Lake Michigan half a mile from the trailhead. One of the best views of the waters of the Manitou Passage and the Manitou Islands which lie five miles offshore. For a quick jaunt, head back the way you came. For a longer hike with some extended uphill heart-pumpers, turn east from the dune overlook for a winding walk through some meadows and hardwood forests. Trailhead: Take M-22 to Port Oneida Road (6K [3.7 mi.] north of Glen Arbor). Follow Port Oneida Road until it ends at Basch Road. Follow Basch Road east to trailhead. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Shauger Hill**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 3.9K (2.4 mi.) loop of hilly terrain through a beech-maple forest with a few small clearings and pine plantations. Trailhead: Parking lot at entrance of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
Sleeping Bear Dunes -- Windy Moraine Trail**
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Empire, MI
(H/W/R) - This is a 2.4K (1.5 mi.) loop of hilly terrain through a beech-maple forest, old farm fields and a pine plantation. From a high point along the trail, you can view Glen Lake, Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Stop at the trailhead for a self-guiding brochure, with the theme of bio-diversity, that describes the scenery. Trailhead: Welch Road just east of M-109 (5.6K [3.5 mi.] north of Empire). The National Lakeshore charges a visitor's fee of $10 per vehicle for a seven day pass or $20 for an annual pass. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.
TART*
Traverse City, MI
(RB, MB, IS, H/W/R) - A popular cross-town route for cyclists, in-line skaters, walkers and joggers; this 9.7-mile-long, paved, non-motorized trail runs from Carter Road east to Bunker Hill Road in Acme, passing West End Beach, Clinch Park and the Traverse City State Park along the way. It's easily accessible at several points. A new 2-mile TART trail extension was completed in August 2005 that goes from Lautner Road to M-72 East in Acme Township. Bicycle and in-line skate rentals are available at Brick Wheels on Eighth Street. A number of restaurants, miniature golf courses and other attractions are adjacent to the trail. On warm, sunny days, trail users are out in force, particularly along the lakefront section. For more information on TART trails, call 231-941-4300.
The Leelanau Trail
Traverse City, MI
(MB, IS, H/W/R) - This rail-trail conversion now connects with the TART trail via a paved trail connector that extends from M-72 to Carter Road and goes behind businesses and restaurants. The actual Leelanau Trail begins at Carter Road in Greilickville and runs north through gently rolling Leelanau County farmland. About 6 miles are paved on the southern end and half a mile is paved in the Village of Suttons Bay. Because it is on an old rail bed, the trail is pretty firm in most places. Gravel has been laid in sandy spots. Bring your binoculars -- there's some great bird watching on this trail. A good place to pick up this trail going south is the old railroad depot in Suttons Bay. For those driving to the trail, parking areas are on the north side of Cherry Bend Road, on the south side of Fouch Road and on the south side of Fourth Street in the Village of Suttons Bay. In the winter, the Leelanau Trail is groomed for cross-country skiing. The trail is generally grooomed on Fridays. For more information, call TART Trails at 231-941-4300.
Timberlee** - ***
10484 S. Timberlee Drive
Traverse City, MI
(231) 941-4142
(MB) - Timberlee, an abandoned downhill ski area turned real estate development in southern Leelanau County, has recently opened some mountain biking trails which have proven popular with local riders. If you make it to the top, you'll enjoy an astonishing view of the countryside and the crystal blue waters of Lake Leelanau. Timberlee hosts a weekly series of downhill races for folks with adrenaline to spare -- after your kamikaze run, enjoy a beer and a snack at the saloon at the base of the hill. Located off CR 614 (extension of Cherry Bend Road) several miles west of M-22.
Vasa Pathway** - ***
Acme, MI
(MB, H/W/R) - This trail is used mostly as a haven for cross-country skiers. The trail is groomed for skate-style skiing as well as traditional striding skiing. In the summer, avid mountain bikers flock to this trail just outside Traverse City in the Pere Marquette State Forest. Three km, five km, 11km, 25km, loops provide great scenery and plenty of challenge. A new, single tract 13 miles long parallels the main trail. The Vasa Pathway has some killer hills -- some short and steep, some long and steep and some just plain long, including one affectionately known as "The Wall." Don't despair, there are flatter sections more suitable for beginners in the eastern and southern parts of the trail which are accessible off Supply Road. The main trailhead is located in Acme Township Park on Bartlett Road, off Bunker Hill Road in Acme. A large parking lot, indoor restrooms and trail maps are available there. For more information, call TART Trails at 231-941-4300.
