Nine ways to utilize Michigan trails this summer
Guest Blogger
| 3 min read
Did you know Michigan is the top trail state in the nation? There is no better way to experience your pure Michigan summer than on our 2,444 miles of multi-use trails.
For Michiganders who enjoy more urban views, the Detroit RiverWalk is the perfect way to take in breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Detroit River. The 3.5-mile trail offers easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment, and links to the Dequindre Cut Greenway, taking trail users to the Eastern Market. Learn more about Detroit’s Riverfront at: www.detroitriverfront.org Photo credit: CJ Peters
Gallop, canter or walk the beautiful trails of Michigan on horseback. With hundreds of miles of multi-use trails, horseback riding is a fun, family-friendly way to experience Michigan summers. For a list of equestrian trails in Michigan, visit: www.michigan.org/equestrian Photo credit: vastateparkstaff
Biking to and from work is not only a great way to get your exercise in, but you will be more productive throughout the work day and while reducing your carbon footprint. Trails in Michigan are expanding, with 2, 444 miles of existing trails and many more miles to come. Trade in your keys for your bicycle and participate in smarter commuting! Photo credit: Sean_Marshall
Paddle your way through Michigan’s freshwater coastline and hundreds of miles of water trails. Water trails throughout the Great Lakes offer countless channels, coves, bays and shorelines to explore. More information about water trails in “the Mitten” can be found at www.michiganwatertrails.org Photo credit: Julie Falk
Explore the Silver Lake Sand Dunes with nearly 2,000 acres of rolling sand dunes that allow ORV and other motorized access. To learn more about testing your vehicle on the Dunes, visit www.thinkdunes.com Photo credit: Justin Hofmann
Connecting America’s “red plaid nation”, the North Country Trail stretches across seven states, 4600 miles and is the longest National Scenic Trail. Wandering from New York through Michigan and up to North Dakota, this is a trail hikers dream! To begin your adventure, visit www.northcountrytrail.org Photo credit: JimFlix
Experience Michigan from a bicycle seat on the Michigander Bicycle Tour this July 12-18. The 2-, 6- or 7-day ride will carry riders through the picturesque town and attractions of northern Michigan, including Leland, Traverse City and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The ride includes baggage transport, snack and water stops, two meals a day and evening entertainment at campsites. To register for the Michigander, visit www.michigantrails.org Photo courtesy of Steve Dennis and www.michigantrails.org
Located in the Upper Peninsula, the climb up the trail to Sugarloaf Mountain offers magnificent views of Lake Superior and Marquette. Two different foot-trails offer varying degrees of challenge and both lead you to the breathtaking views. Visit www.travelmarquettemichigan.com to learn more about the trails at Sugarloaf Mountain. Photo credit: Xray10
Known as the Napa Valley of the Midwest, the Grand Traverse area delivers breathtaking views of vineyards, orchards and the Grand Traverse Bay. Experiencing the area by bike allows riders to experience the wine country and the winemaking process from “vine to wine.” To book your tour, visit www.grandtraversebiketours.com Photo courtesy of Steve Dennis and www.michigantrails.org
Alyssa Sturm studies advertising and public relations at Michigan State University and works at the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance at the Michigan Fitness Foundation.
