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🚴 Biking Trails Near the Campground

Northern Michigan is biking country — rail trails, forest loops, paved lakeside paths, and serious single track. Whether you brought a cruiser or a mountain bike, there's a perfect ride waiting for you.

5–15 miles away · Right from Camp

North Central State Trail

~5–15 miles to access Waters to Mackinaw City

Widely considered the best rail trail in the Midwest — 75 miles of flat, crushed limestone stretching all the way to Mackinaw City. Hop on near Waters and ride as far as you like. Perfect for all fitness levels. This one alone is worth planning your whole day around.

Easy 75 miles total Crushed Limestone All Ages

~20–30 miles away · Grayling Area

Hartwick Pines — Grayling Bicycle Turnpike

~20 miles Grayling, MI

A dedicated 10-mile paved path connecting Hartwick Pines State Park directly to downtown Grayling. Ride to the old-growth pines and back, or end with lunch in town. A beautiful, scenic out-and-back that feels like a real adventure.

Easy 10 miles Paved Scenic

Hartwick Pines Biking Loops

~20 miles Grayling, MI

Three loop options — 3, 5, and 7.5 miles — winding through the towering pines of Hartwick Pines State Park. Beginner to intermediate terrain with plenty of shade. A great choice for those who prefer loops over out-and-back rides.

Beginner–Intermediate 3 / 5 / 7.5 mile loops

Hanson Hills Recreation Area

~30 miles Grayling, MI

The mountain biking destination in northern Michigan. Over 20 miles of single track through rolling hardwood forest — technical in places, but with options for intermediate riders too. If you brought a mountain bike, this is your place.

Intermediate–Advanced 20+ miles single track Mountain Biking

~25 miles away · Gaylord

Aspen Park

~25 miles Gaylord, MI

A relaxed, family-friendly paved trail right in Gaylord. Easy riding through a pretty park setting — great for a casual morning ride before heading into town for breakfast or shopping.

Easy Paved Family Friendly

35–60 miles away · Worth the Drive

Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve

~38 miles Johannesburg, MI

An 800-acre preserve with 14–20 miles of trails open to biking. Remote, beautiful, and uncrowded — a great escape for riders who want serious mileage in a natural setting.

Moderate 800 Acres 14–20 miles

Boyne Valley Trail

~55 miles Boyne City, MI

A paved trail winding through the scenic Boyne City area. Pair it with lunch in Boyne City on the lake for a full and memorable day trip.

Easy Paved Scenic

Little Traverse Wheelway

~60 miles Petoskey, MI

One of Michigan's most scenic bike paths — 26 miles of paved trail hugging the shoreline of Lake Michigan's Little Traverse Bay near Petoskey. Stunning water views the entire way. A bucket-list ride worth the drive.

Easy 26 miles Paved Lake Views Bucket List