Michigan Islands, Trails & Dunes Bike Tour

Northern Michigan is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cyclists alike. Boasting hundreds of miles of shoreline around two of our Great Lakes with coastal dunes on the west, State Forests filling the interior landscape, large shimmering inland lakes and streams, and miles and miles of winding backcountry roads to cycle, you will quickly discover why this area has folks adventuring here year after year.

Shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago, the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan offers endless opportunities to hike and bike, and it’s rolling hills are spotted with fantastic wineries and farmlands. Whether you prefer hiking excursions, strolling through small towns, lounging on the beach, touring historic sites or enjoy fine dining and wine tastings, Northern Michigan is the perfect destination for your next cycling adventure!

Come “Up North” with us on our Michigan Bike Tour and discover why so many, including Ernest Hemingway, were and are still drawn to Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula. This tour is a mix of road and bike path cycling.

Day 1:  Meet the group in Traverse City, Michigan, then shuttle to the start of our cycling adventure in Indian, Michigan. From here, we will hop on our bikes and ride north to Mackinaw City. Pedaling along the North Central State Trail, you will travel nearly 45 miles of downhill, car-free riding. There’s really not a better way to begin our Michigan Bicycle Tour! Upon arrival in Mackinaw City, we will have some time to explore before ferrying over to Mackinac (pronounced ‘mack-in-awe’) Island. Please note: this trail surface is a hard-packed crushed limestone surface.

Day 2:  Today is all about Mackinac Island. The major draw to Mackinac Island is the absence of vehicles. Residents and visitors may only travel the island by horse, bicycle or on foot. We will spend the day exploring this remarkable vehicle-free island, discovering all the pristine cycling routes and tranquil beaches it holds. You will also have time to explore some on your own in the evening, and really experience the island for yourself. No motorized vehicles are permitted on the island. *E-bikes are not permitted on Mackinac Island. However, we still allow e-bikes on this tour. Island rentals will be available for the day in substitute for the e-bike.

Day 3: To say ‘hello’, one must start by saying ‘goodbye’ .. so we bid farewell to Mackinac Island today. After a ferry ride back to Mackinaw City, we will hop on our bike saddles and pedal along the shoreline of Lake Michigan to Petosky, Michigan. Riding on quiet country roads along the shore, we will ride through the famous tree tunnel where you have the opportunity to take a break from those bike saddles once again to stretch your legs with beautiful views. You will ride directly to your lodging in Petoskey.

Day 4: The morning begins from your hotel as you head out to the Little Traverse Wheelway. This is always a highlight! The trail ends in Charlevioux – home to the Mushroom Houses. We will take a driving tour of the houses before heading to our afternoon ride just north of  Traverse City. You’ll enjoy a ride to Glen Arbor – home of the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Everyone will enjoy two nights here and have the chance to explore.

Day 5: Pedal right out of last night’s lodging, and head for Sleeping Bear Dunes. You will be riding around the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore today. Shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago, this narrow lakeshore area offers 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a few inland lakes and streams to explore as well as the dune area. Standing roughly 400 feet above Lake Michigan, you will have the opportunity to try the “Dune Climb” if you’re up for it.

Day 6: Today you will be riding south out of Glen Arbor to Beulah. Riding along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, your ride today will include three different trails: The Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail, the Betsie Valley Trailway & The MI Northern Railway Trail. You will have time to stop at the Point Betsie Lighthouse today. We will enjoy a final lunch together, before shuttling back to Traverse City for our final departures.