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4.7/5 (29 reviews)

6-Day Michigan Lakes & Trails Scenic Exploration Bike Tour

Northern Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is one of the best Midwest cycling destinations. Enjoy lakes, trails, and sights like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, local vineyards, Mission Point Lighthouse, plus, bike on car-free Mackinac Island.

Start - End: Traverse City - Traverse City

Total trip: 6 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 2

from USD 4,199/pp including taxes and fees

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Trip Inquiry - 6-Day Michigan Lakes & Trails Scenic Exploration Bike Tour

Gallery

Michigan Lakes & Trails Bike Tour Vineyard
Michigan Lakes & Trails Bike Tour stones found near Petoskey
Michigan Bike Tour - Lake Huron Day 6
Michigan Bike Tour - Tunnel of Trees Day 4
Michigan Bike Tour - Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail - Day 1
Michigan Bike Tour - Mackinac Island Day 5
Michigan Bike Tour - Charevoix Houses Day 3
Michigan Bike Tour - Old Mission Peninsula Day 2
Guests pausing on the Michigan Bike Tour - Tunnel of Trees trail -  Day 4
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Bike Northern Michigan’s Lakes, Trails and Scenic Shores

Nestled between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, northern Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is made for exploring by bike. Over six days, you ride scenic trails and quieter roads through forests, along sparkling lakes and into welcoming waterfront towns, with minimal shuttle time and plenty to discover along the way.

Follow the Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail through the spectacular landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with time to explore historic Glen Haven Village. Ride among vineyards and cherry orchards on Old Mission Peninsula on your way to Mission Point Lighthouse. Farther north, you pedal through Charlevoix, where you discover Earl Young’s wonderfully whimsical “Mushroom Houses,” before continuing to Petoskey and the landscapes that inspired a young Ernest Hemingway. From here, follow Little Traverse Bay toward Harbor Springs and pedal beneath the leafy canopy of the famous Tunnel of Trees.

There’s more to look forward to as you travel north. Ride a peaceful rail-trail to Mackinaw City, then take the ferry to car-free Mackinac Island for an overnight stay. With historic places to explore, beautiful Great Lakes views and memorable riding from start to finish, this tour lets you experience the many sides of northern Michigan at a relaxed pace.

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Trip Highlights

Biking

Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail

Pedal through forests and dunes on this scenic trail through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Nature

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Take in sweeping views of Lake Michigan from the spectacular dunes and shoreline of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Explore

Old Mission Peninsula

Ride among vineyards and cherry orchards on this beautiful peninsula surrounded by Grand Traverse Bay.

History

Mission Point Lighthouse

Discover this historic lighthouse in a picture-perfect setting at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula.

Culture

Charlevoix’s “Mushroom Houses”

Marvel at Charlevoix’s wonderfully whimsical stone “Mushroom Houses,” designed by Earl Young from 1918 through to the 1970s.

Culture

Hemingway Country

Discover the beauty of the northern Michigan landscapes that inspired Ernest Hemingway’s early writing.

Biking

The Tunnel of Trees

Pedal beneath a leafy canopy on this memorable ride along northern Michigan’s Lake Michigan coast.

Explore

Mackinac Island

Explore charming, car-free Mackinac Island by bike, with beautiful views across Lake Huron.

History

Glen Haven Village

Step into northern Michigan’s past at this historic village on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Biking

North Central State Trail

Enjoy easygoing miles on a peaceful rail-trail through the forests and small towns of northern Michigan.

Day by day tour

See where each day takes you, with scenic rides, memorable stops and plenty to discover along the way.

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Arrival Day: Sleeping Bear Dunes

After brief introductions, shuttle one hour to the start of today’s route. After your bike fitting, take off on your first ride. Pedal along Crystal Lake, the first of many lakes on the tour. Stop in Empire for a tasty lunch and visit the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center to learn about your upcoming visit to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

After lunch, cycle along the Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail, and shuttle the gorgeous 8-mile loop around Pierce Stocking Drive. Crossing forests and dunes, this roadway is well-known for its scenic vistas, gentle curves and fascinating landscapes. Visit the Glen Haven Historic Village before a shuttle back to Hotel Indigo.
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo, Traverse City
Meals: Dinner

Biking: 33 miles (53.1 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 713 feet (217 meters) ascent, 729 feet (222 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier to Intermediate

Grand Traverse Bay

Today you explore the Old Mission Peninsula via a picturesque ride through vineyards and cherry orchards. At the tip of the peninsula is the scenic Mission Point Lighthouse, where you enjoy a picnic lunch. Though the lighthouse has been decommissioned for nearly 90 years, it offers a historical view into the lives of lighthouse keepers at the turn of the century. After visiting the lighthouse, pedal south along the peninsula back to Traverse City. Those opting for extended mileage begin and end their day at the hotel and pass a number of wineries along the route. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the town or relaxing at the hotel’s rooftop bar. You’re on your own for dinner tonight.
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo, Traverse City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Biking: 43.7 miles (70.3 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,132 feet (345 meters) ascent, 1,131 feet (345 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier to Intermediate

Charlevoix & land of Hemingway

After a morning shuttle to Charlevoix, you cycle along the Little Traverse Wheelway. Early in the ride you will tour Charlevoix’s famous “Mushroom Houses,” also known as “Gnome Homes” or “Hobbit Houses.” Built by Earl Young, the more than two dozen homes are made mostly of stone found throughout northern Michigan and were built to blend in with the surroundings. Then you head north into Petoskey, with a beautiful overlook of Lake Michigan where you have your choice of spots for lunch. After lunch, cycle the remaining miles to Stafford's Perry Hotel.
Accommodation: Stafford's Perry Hotel, Petoskey
Meals: Breakfast

Biking: 26.7 miles (43 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 695 feet (212 meters) ascent, 647 feet (197 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier

Petoskey & Tunnel of Trees

Today you pedal north from Petoskey to Harbor Springs along the Little Traverse Wheelway, with Little Traverse Bay glittering to the west. After some urban riding through Harbor Springs, around mile 19.5 you reach the famous Tunnel of Trees — where branches intertwine overhead to create a stunning natural canopy.

Spend the afternoon making sure you’ve seen every corner of Petoskey.
Accommodation: Stafford's Perry Hotel, Petoskey
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Biking: 32.4 miles (52.1 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,341 feet (409 meters) ascent, 1,316 feet (401 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier to Advanced

North Central State Trail and Mackinac Island

Today you explore a quiet inland rail trail on the way to Mackinaw City and the ferry to the ever-popular Mackinac Island. As you gather your belongings before breakfast, make sure to pack a change of clothes and your toiletries in an overnight bag that you can carry with you as you cycle onto the ferry, as vehicles are not permitted on the island.

Located on the eastern end of the Straits of Mackinac, the island is in the narrow body of water that separates the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan. The entire island is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is famous for being car-free. Instead of motorized vehicles, guests are propelled by feet, bicycles, and horse carriages. You enjoy the lovely, flat, 8-mile bike route that circumnavigates the island. Spend the afternoon taking in the sights, visiting the historic buildings, and searching the island for the best fudge. Enjoy the final night with a celebratory dinner on the island!
Accommodation: Harbour View Hotel, Mackinac Island
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Biking: 22.1 miles (35 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 222 feet (68 meters) ascent, 334 feet (102 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier

Mackinac Island

Spend the morning exploring Mackinac Island by bike and by foot. Enjoy the sunrise over Lake Huron and take in a leisurely breakfast at the Inn after your morning ride, then catch an 11 a.m. ferry back to Mackinaw City and shuttle back to the starting hotel in Traverse City by about 3 p.m. where we say our goodbyes.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast

Biking: 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 96 feet (29 meters) ascent, 90 feet (27 meters) descent
Terrain: Easier

Discovery bikers outside one of the famous "Mushroom Houses".
Sunset views over Lake Michigan

What's included

  • 5 nights’ accommodation
  • 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
  • You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
  • Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • Delicious snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to keep you fueled
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Branded top and bag
  • Gravel bikes with drop handlebars, Hybrid with flat-bar handlebars, or E-Bikes - equipped with a front handlebar bag or rear carrier, branded water bottle, mirror, and flat pedals
  • Ride with GPS for navigation along with the detailed maps and itineraries
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
  • Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
  • You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
  • “My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

Inns

Hotel Indigo on our Michigan bike tour

Hotel Indigo, Traverse City

Standing among revamped lumberyards, sawmills and canneries, Hotel Indigo® Traverse City reflects the new life and vibrant spirit of the waterfront Warehouse District neighborhood. It also pay homage to its past — with modern guest rooms featuring wood details a 19th-century white-pine lumber baron would love.

Stafford's Perry Hotel on our Michigan bike tour

Stafford's Perry Hotel

Set in Petoskey's historic Gaslight District, the Perry Hotel offers a perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern-day amenities. With breathtaking views of Little Traverse Bay and being the only hotel in downtown Petoskey, it's the ideal destination. Take a leisurely stroll to explore the delightful shops and galleries nearby or to enjoy the traverse bay.

Harbour View Inn on our Michigan bike tour

Harbour View Hotel, Mackinac Island

Immerse yourself in the historic charm that has made Michigan’s Mackinac Island famous when you stay at the Harbour View Inn, a hotel with a fascinating history of its own. Located on spacious, scenic and beautifully landscaped grounds it's only a short walk from the best Mackinac Island attractions, yet away from the bustling traffic of downtown.

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FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions and helpful details so you can feel prepared for your Michigan bike tour.

On the first morning of the tour, our two pick-up locations are Best Western Plus Traverse City at 8am or the Hotel Indigo Traverse City at 8:15am. You are welcome to book your pre-tour stay at either of these hotels directly or any other hotel in Traverse City, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Your tour ends with a drop-off at either the Best Western Plus Traverse City or Hotel Indigo Traverse City around 3pm.

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Traverse City at least the day before your tour starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your tour start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the tour, we recommend departing from Traverse City after 5pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

If you plan to drive to the tour’s pick-up location, please ensure you arrange parking for the duration of your tour. If the pick-up point is a hotel, we recommend contacting them directly to inquire about parking availability. Keep in mind some hotels do not permit non-guests to park on-site, so you may need to find alternative parking options.

Occasionally, your accommodations may differ from those featured, but they’ll always be hand-picked by our expert team with care. We’ll send your final accommodation list a month before your tour begins, so you’ll know exactly where you’re staying before you set off.

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What Our Guests Say

Photos from Michigan Lakes Bike Tour

Discovery guest riding the Michigan Lakes Trails on Discovery Bicycle Tour
Discovery Bicycle Guests on Michigan Lakes Bike Tour
Discovery Bicycle Tour guests during their bike tour in Michigan
Discovery Bicycle Guest at the beach on the Michigan Bike Tour
Guests in front

Gallery

Discovery guest riding the Michigan Lakes Trails on Discovery Bicycle Tour
Discovery Bicycle Guests on Michigan Lakes Bike Tour
Discovery Bicycle Tour guests during their bike tour in Michigan
Discovery Bicycle Guest at the beach on the Michigan Bike Tour
Guests in front

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