View of Lake Michigan – Bear River loop from Sandford Nature Preserve

Mountain biking trails

United States

Michigan

Emmet County

View of Lake Michigan – Bear River loop from Sandford Nature Preserve

Easy

2.7

(17)

riders

View of Lake Michigan – Bear River loop from Sandford Nature Preserve

01:30

27.2km

150m

Mountain biking

Easy mountain bike ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: October 28, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.28 km

S.A. Bissell Nature Preserve

Nature Reserve

2.77 km

Kalman Nature Preserve

Highlight • Forest

The Kalman Nature Preserve, owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy, stretches to the shoreline of Little Traverse Bay, containing valuable wetland habitats.

Tip by

4.03 km

View of Lake Michigan

Highlight • Viewpoint

Wonderful views of Lake Michigan through the trees. The water is remarkably blue and it's very tempting to stop for a swim!

Tip by

4.99 km

Menonaqua Woods Nature Preserve

Highlight • Forest

The Menonaqua Woods Nature Preserve welcomes dogs on a leash, and hikers can explore this untrailed area. There is no designated parking area, and these protected woods are located 5.2 miles from Petoskey.

Tip by

7.59 km

Mud Lake

Highlight • Lake

Mud Lake is 217 square acres in size and is home to panfish and bass. The best views of Mud Lake are from the North Western State Trail.

Tip by

10.9 km

Bay View Association and Historic Cottages

Highlight • Historical Site

The Bay View Association is a collection of historic Victorian cottage homes. It operates for six months during the summer and offers educational programs for adults and children, including a music college, a weekday kids club, and a women's council. The neighborhood remains unoccupied from October to March.

Tip by

11.3 km

Lake Michigan view

Highlight • Viewpoint

A lovely spot to take a break off the bike and admire the impressive view of Lake Michigan. Perfect on a summer's day.

Tip by

13.7 km

Bear River

Highlight • River

Starting as the outflow of Walloon Lake, the upper 13 miles offer calm, flat water flowing through wetlands and marshes. It's ideal for peaceful canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

Tip by

14.0 km

Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater

Highlight • Structure

The Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater, located in Michigan, serves as a protective barrier for the harbour. It has played a vital role in facilitating commerce and ensuring safe navigation along the Great Lakes, preserving the region's maritime heritage.

A great spot to walk the bikes up to and take a break.

Tip by

27.2 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types