Little Traverse Wheelway

The Little Traverse Wheelway is the way to see Little Traverse Bay at bike speed: a paved path linking Charlevoix, Petoskey and Harbor Springs, much of it along the water with open views. Families and casual riders can pick one stretch from a park with parking and restrooms, such as Petoskey’s Bayfront Park or Charlevoix Township Park.

It is for cyclists, walkers, runners and skaters, and it is long. The official length is 23.25 miles, or 26.65 miles counting the local sidewalks and bike routes that carry it into downtown Charlevoix and downtown Harbor Springs, so pick a stretch or plan a full day.

Along the way you pass Bay Harbor, the Victorian cottages of Bay View and the entrance to Petoskey State Park. North of Charlevoix, a half-mile boardwalk crosses a wetland. Between Petoskey’s Bayfront Park and Petoskey State Park the path follows the original Wheelway of the 1880s, and a gate at the east end of Bayfront Park replicates one that stood near the same spot.

Check before you ride. The Miracle Mile in Petoskey, between East Park and Magnus Park, remains closed after erosion damage, and neither the Top of Michigan Trails Council nor the visitors bureau recommends the unofficial detour onto US-31, especially for children or inexperienced riders.

The Trails Council has worked since 1994 to expand the trail.