The best road cycling routes around Traverse City

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Traverse City, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.

Traverse City's road cycling routes feature a mix of urban greenways, scenic waterfront paths, and routes winding through forests. You'll also find rolling hills, particularly on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, providing varied elevation for different skill levels.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families and beginners. The Boardman Lake Trail – West End Beach loop from Traverse City is an easy 14.5-mile (23.3 km) trail that encircles Boardman Lake, offering a flat and accessible ride. The broader TART Trails network also provides many paved, multi-use paths ideal for all ages.

For stunning views of lakes, vineyards, and quaint towns, consider the Old Mission Lighthouse – Mission Point Lighthouse loop from Traverse City. This moderate 41.6-mile (67.0 km) route takes you through the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula, known for its orchards and wineries. The Leelanau Peninsula Loop also offers beautiful vistas of forests, farmlands, vineyards, and small lakes.

Yes, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain, especially on the Leelanau Peninsula. While the Leelanau Peninsula Loop is rated moderate, its 46.9 miles (75.6 km) and over 460 meters of elevation gain provide a good challenge. Exploring the rolling hills of the peninsulas will offer more demanding rides.

Many routes offer access to the region's natural beauty. You can cycle along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, explore areas near the Boardman River, and pass by numerous smaller lakes. While not directly on all road cycling routes, the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a significant natural feature nearby, and the Traverse Area Recreational Trail (TART) connects to many scenic spots.

Many trailheads and access points for the TART Trails network, including sections like the Boardman Lake Trail, offer dedicated parking. For example, you can find parking at Woodland Sweets, Playground and Trail Parking, which provides convenient access to local routes.

The spring, summer, and fall months are ideal for road cycling in Traverse City. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant autumn colors, especially along routes through the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. The weather is generally pleasant, making for enjoyable rides.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. The Leelanau Peninsula Loop and the Old Mission Lighthouse – Mission Point Lighthouse loop from Traverse City are excellent examples of longer circular routes. For an easier option, the Boardman Lake Trail – West End Beach loop from Traverse City provides a shorter, flat circuit.

Yes, Traverse City's extensive trail networks, particularly the TART Trails, are designed to connect to urban areas and charming towns. This means you'll often find cafes, restaurants, breweries, and accommodation options conveniently located near or directly accessible from many road cycling routes, especially in downtown Traverse City and along the peninsulas.

Traverse City stands out for its diverse and picturesque landscapes, extensive paved trail networks like the TART Trails, and a wide array of natural features. The combination of urban greenways, waterfront paths, forests, and rolling hills on the peninsulas provides varied terrain for all skill levels, complemented by numerous amenities for cyclists.

Beyond the natural beauty, routes often pass through charming towns and offer views of local landmarks. The Old Mission Lighthouse – Mission Point Lighthouse loop from Traverse City, for instance, leads to the historic Mission Point Lighthouse. Many routes also provide access to West End Beach and other points of interest within Traverse City itself.