Beginning at Waller Rd. and US 31 and ending at Kosequat Park, Little Traverse Wheelway is a picturesque 23.7 mile trek through Charlevoix and Emmet Counties. Paved except for a .6 mile wooden boardwalk over wooded wetlands, the trail takes you through several state and city parks, including Petoskey State Park. Along the way there are three replicas of historic arches inscribed with the words  “No Teaming or Driving,” reminiscent of the horse and buggy origins of the path. There are also several popular tourist attractions along the way; the tunnel under U.S. 31 connects to the quaint shopping district of Petoskey and the path connects to Little Traverse History Museum. From the wonderful views of Lake Michigan to the smorgasbord of cultural activities, Little Traverse Wheelway is a can’t-miss.

Detroit’s former industrial riverfront has been transformed into a promenade where residents and visitors can now access the water. Detroit Riverfront Conservancy has raised $121 million toward a $140 million goal of ensuring all components of the riverwalk are constructed and maintained. Their efforts have not been in vain: the 3.5 mile trail is pegged to have had an economic impact of $43.7 million, thus far. The riverwalk is not just economically positive, though, it has also displayed immense cultural and social benefits. It has revitalized the area by spurring such developments as the Math and Science High School, Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, Presbyterian Village and Manor and many restaurants and breweries. Also, the River Days Festival (which attracts 150,000 visitors) and Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront are popular events held on the riverwalk. Check out the revitalization of Detroit’s downtown with a Michigan bike vacation today.

This 17.8 mile trail through Bay County boasts an extensive boardwalk system across the Saginaw River as well as wide sidewalks throughout the city, with helpful way-finding signs. The path takes you to the Bay State Recreation Area as well as the Fred Andersen Nature Trail, where you can hike or visit the nature center. The trail also features the best of Bay City- you’ll encounter shops, numerous parks, a marina, the farmers’ market, a community theater and a community center.

This 34 mile trail is Michigan’s first state-owned rail-trail and its second rail-trail conversion. It is the introductory segment of the Great Lake to Lake Trail a 250 mile trek from South Haven to Port Huron; Kal-Haven is a great way to experience some of the highlights of the longer trail. The path features beautiful scenery, popular beaches, rustic campgrounds and a limestone surface for most of the ride.

Enjoyed by snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and road and mountain bikers, this 47 mile pathway highlights the prettiest sights in Marquette County. Crossing the Marquette Iron Range, the trail is a perfect way to experience quintessential Upper Peninsula sights and culture.

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