The Best Bike Trips and Tours in Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City is home to some of the most picturesque bike trails in northern Michigan. These trails wind their way through lush green forests, sparkling lakeshores, and scenic boardwalks in natural habitats. From historic trailheads to thrilling bike tours, beginner cyclists and expert riders alike can discover fun and adventure pedaling around the Traverse City area. Try these top recommendations for self-guided bike trips, adventure cycling tours, and family outings. 

Adventure Cycling 

Along the shore of the beautiful Crystal Lake and the banks of the Betsie River is the 22-mile Betsie Valley Trail, a local favorite for adventure-seeking cyclists. Take the trail to Frankfort, a charming town with stunning sunsets over North Breakwater Lighthouse. For downtown Traverse City views, look no further than the TART Trail, which offers a convenient access point to the VASA Pathway, home of a series of mountain biking loops through scenic state forest land. 

Cyclists who love good climbs and fast descents can hit Palmer Woods Forest Reserve on the border of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Glen Arbor for 18 miles of trails, while road cyclists can pedal down 28 miles of iconic sights at the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. 

Easy Scenic Trails 

Travel south of downtown Traverse City to find the four-mile paved Boardman Lake Loop, an easy ride that circles Boardman Lake with breathtaking views of swans, water birds, and eagles. The 17-mile Leelanau Trail is another local favorite with unbeatable views of Traverse City and Suttons Bay, where it runs through picturesque forests, farms, vineyards, lakes, and ponds. 

Self-Guided Cycling 

Planning a self-guided bike trip? Cycle at your own pace with Grand Traverse Bike Tours and soak in the beautiful scenery of northern Michigan. Leisurely cycle along the Leelanau Trail on self-guided E-bike tours, complete with GPS navigation, local recommendations and curated routes from the Grand Traverse Bike Tours team. Explore the region’s award-winning wineries with their popular Wine Trail Bike Tours for a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence. Or craft beer lovers can check out Kayak, Bike & Brew, a three-hour self-guided cycling tour that stops at local breweries along the way. Best of all, both tours offer convenient bike rentals. 

City Bike Tours 

A number of downtown Traverse City establishments also offer bike rentals, allowing you to enjoy the city at your own pace. Brick Wheels, City Bike Shop, and Pedego Electric Bikes make it easier than ever to spend an afternoon exploring downtown Traverse City and its many restaurants and shops. Bike rentals come with helmets, locks, and maps, so you only need to bring yourself.  

No matter how you choose to explore Traverse City by bike, you’ll quickly understand why the Wall Street Journal named it one of the 10 Best Places to Go in 2025. It’s the kind of place where every ride leads to unforgettable memories.