Experience Scenic Views, History and Adventure Along the Little Traverse Wheelway
Little Traverse Wheelway
Family Biking on the Little Traverse Wheelway: Why We Love It!
One impressive family-friendly bike path that has topped our list of favorites is the Little Traverse Wheelway. Specifically, we love the easy accessibility, beautiful scenery, close proximity to downtown and the convenient access from Petoskey State Park.
Stretching for 26 miles between three delightful beach towns of Harbor Springs, Petoskey and Charlevoix, The Little Traverse Wheelway follows the shores of Lake Michigan, providing stunning views along the way and tons of entertaining stops to enjoy for families with kids.
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Facts About the Trail
Biking Little Traverse Wheelway
Those seeking to explore the area or just wanting some exercise can bike, run, in-line skate or walk their dog along this non- motorized path.
Many shops and parks are directly on the trail like Kiliwins, Petoskey Brewing, Bayfront Park and Magnus Park.
Rich with history, parts of the original trail date back to the 1800s. Thanks to the efforts of the Top of the Michigan Trail Organization and local counties, it can be enjoyed today.
Popular Trailhead Parking Locations: Bay Front Park, Magnus Park, East Park, and Petoskey State Park.
Come follow along as we highlight the noteworthy features and stops on the route. Check out this online map of the trail in detail.
Our Favorite Section of the Wheelway Between Petoskey State Park and Magnus Park
In my personal opinion, if you have limited time or only plan to do a small section, the portion between Petoskey State Park and Magnus Park to East Park in Bay Harbor (East Park Section is currently CLOSED as of August 2024) is one of the most scenic sections of the entire bike trail and ideal for families.
Summary of Our Bike Ride with Kids
Sweet peas growing along the Little Traverse Wheelway
This trail segment proved to be a fun family day trip during our stay in Petoskey. We biked from Petoskey State Park, stopped several times along the route at Sunset Park, found the hidden waterfall, played at Bayfront Park, explored the downtown area of Petoskey, grabbed a treat at the Petoskey Pretzel Co., and walked out to the lighthouse by Petoskey Breakwater and skipped stones.
Don’t worry we also squeezed in some time to just sit and relax while watching the boats go in and out of the harbor as our children played at the Bayfront Park’s playground- a truly delightful way to spend a day on a sunny summer day.
Boardwalk Path from Tannery Creek Campground Loop
Before You Go
Petoskey Stones and Charlvoix Stones found at Petoskey State Park
Go ahead and air up those tires, strap on your helmet, fill up your water bottle and get ready for a day full of adventures. Whether you plan to bike the entire 26 miles or just a portion of the Wheelway, you’re bound to have a memorable time while exploring the Little Traverse Bay area along the trail.
We recommend making a whole day adventure so we’ve created a detailed guide of Petoskey area segments on the Little Traverse Wheelway, (around 9 miles), with tons of pictures so you know what to expect.
What to Expect
A predominately flat trail, this 23.5 mile trail follows the shoreline for the majority of the path, although you do go along a small neighborhood, beside a busy road through town for a bit- so children must be able to follow proper bicycle safety rules. There are also restrooms along the path.
Popular Parking Trailheads
Petoskey State Park, Bayfront Park, Tannery Creek Trailhead, (behind D & W ) and Spring Lake Park.
Mileage Breakdown of the Traverse Bay Wheelway
Charlevoix- Harbor Springs: 23.5 miles
Petoskey- Harbor Springs: 9 miles
Petoskey- Charlevoix 14.5 miles
Noteworthy Spots Along the Petoskey Segment of the Trailway
Petoskey State Park
Our adventure began at the Petoskey State Park, where we were camping for the week. Branching off from the Wheelway is a mulched path that is directly accessible from the back of the state park at the Tannery Creek Campground Loop.
This popular state park is a perfect destination for families, especially those that love the beach and searching for Petoskey Stones. This highly sought after campground is close to downtown Petoskey, home to two modern campgrounds, a day use beach swimming area and 3 miles of wooded hiking trails. Check out our trip guide for visiting Petoskey State Park.
Shortly after leaving the park we reach the Tanner Creek Trailhead and quickly noticed the colorful mural.
Little Traverse Wheelway Mural
Little Traverse Bay Wheelway Mural
Stop and view the mural on the backside of the D & W, featuring 5 panels that trace the historical stages of the Wheelway through the years. This striking mural, painted by Terry L. Dickinson, was created in 2006 and is visible from the bike path at the Tannery Creek Trailhead and the McCue-Fettis Overlook.
Continuing along the bay, here are some of the spots you’ll encounter. Feel the cooling breezes off the bay while bicycling past vibrant wildflowers, rocky shorelines and breathtaking views of the bay is hard to beat.
There are a couple stretches that take you along the road, along the scenic M-119, and through charming neighborhoods. Proper bicycle safety rules and helmets are highly advisable, especially for children.
Sunset Park
Waterfall in Petoskey Below Sunset Park
Located in the same area, climb the stairs to Sunset Park. I happened to capture this lovely view from atop the stairway and a beautiful location to watch the sunset.
Waterfall Area
Just after the restroom, cross over to find the hidden waterfall. There is a small creek that leads to the falls. Scale up the side via a hidden dirt path to the top of the falls. Additionally, you can climb the steps for a widespread view of the bay and check out the activity below at Bayfront Park.
Bayfront Park & Playground ( Fred Friedli Playground)
If your riding with children, make sure to stop at the waterfront playscape. Fred Friedli Playground will entertain kids of all ages, while letting parents stretch their legs and relax with lovely views of the passing ships and marina. This red modern play structure features a large playscape, plus a smaller toddler sized play structure and swings. Shaded benches and cool breezes sweep across the lake for a relaxing spot.
Petoskey Harbor Breakwater and Bayfront Lighthouse
After parking our bicycles, we wandered down the Petoskey Harbor Breakwater. This tranquil spot is where the Bear River enters the Little Traverse Bay. Refreshing breezes cooled us as we walked out to view the lighthouse in the Petoskey Harbor.
Currently, The Bayfront Lighthouse is operated and still owned by the Coast Guard.
Petoskey Bayfront Lighthouse
When visiting over the 4th of July, there were already people gathering in Bayfront Park near the grassy area east of the breakwater to watch the fireworks, plus it’s an ideal location for a picnic.
Magnus Park
The Rocky Shoreline on the west side of the the Petoskey Harbor Breakwater is the home of Magnus Park, which is commonly known by locals as the perfect spot to find Petoskey Stones.
Downtown Petoskey
Make a day trip out of your bike ride and venture into downtown Petoskey area where there are a slew of shops, restaurants and attractions. Lock your bike up and take the stairway up into the downtown business district. When needed a little pick me up, just lock up your bikes up and explore or walk them over and make a quick stop ath the nearby pretzel spot.
Petoskey Pretzel Co
Crossing over the road from Bayfront park you’ll come across the tiny little Petoskey Pretzel Company’s shop. These local favorites are the perfect treat during your adventure. Warm, soft pretzels with a variety of seasonings and dips to choose from are a much loved treat when visiting the downtown area of Petoskey.
Bear River Recreation Area
Flanking both sides of the the Bear River, this scenic trail offers views of the rapids, takes you under bridges and through wooded forest trails. We stopped a hiked along the river on a separate day and it was well worth it.
Bear River Recreation Area trail leads under the bridge
On one side of the river is a paved path, while on the opposite side a shady wooded path leads through the woods, alongside the river. We opted for the less traveled trail through the woods.
Trail from Petoskey to Charlevoix (14.5)
Some highlights of the trail to Charlevoix is several preserves. The boardwalk section through Charlevoix is surrounded by marshy wetlands and also contains paths to reach downtown Charlevoix. Parking can be found at Shanahan park or Waller Road.
Trail from Petoskey to Harbor Springs
If you desire more miles, The North Western State Trail connects to the Wheelway and goes for over 30 miles, all the way to Mackinac City. The trailway is asphalt from Petoskey to Alanson for 7.5 miles, and then the rest of the 23 miles from from Alanson to Mackinaw City is crushed limestone.
Packy Offield Trail Center (1687 M 119)
Along the trail you can stop at the headquarters of the Top of Michigan Trail Council, the non-profit group which works to maintain the parks in Northern Michigan and is active in the construction and continued maintenance of the the Wheelway. During normal business hours stop in check out the historic limestone cottage and grab trail maps. Make note there is no parking at this location.
Petoskey Brewing
Located along the Harbor- Petoskey Road ( M-119) and across from the Wheelway, Petoskey Brewing Co is a historic location to enjoy Michigan Micro Brews. Enjoy the ambience, know to locals as the “Old Brewery” while you grab a drink and some delicious food as you comfortably sit outside by the patio or inside if you prefer.
Little Traverse Township Park
This small park offers beautiful views of the bay area. Containing Crooked Lake, a sandy beach, picnic area, porta-john, and parking. The last 3 miles takes to Kosequat Park, which is the end of the trail.
Where to Stay /Accommodations
Cottage Rentals in Petoskey
Petoskey offers options for cozy cottages, historic homes, and charming bed & breakfast. Search for exactly what you need through VRBO . If you desire a hotel with a pool, check out the most current deals at Bookings.com.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Petoskey Situated only 7 miles from the state park, the IHG Holiday Inn is in a great location to explore the area. With an indoor pool, included breakfast and modern amenities its a family friendly option.
Bay View Inn Featuring lovely views of the Little Traverse Bay, onsite restaurant and ideal location, Bayview Inn is a great choice for those wanting to have easy access to Little Traverse Wheelway, and shopping, and entertainment found in Petoskey
Featuring pool, excellent location and free self-parking. Bonus it’s close to Bear River Park, Downtown Petoskey and within walking distance to Lake Michigan.
Crooked River Lodge 15 minutes from Petoskey, this rustic lodge features a variety of amenities from an indoor swimming pool, breakfast and bonfire pits.
Camp in the Area
Camping at Petoskey State Park is a budget-friendly way for families to experience the beauty of the bay, especially those that want to enjoy the 4th of July firework displays that you can from the state park, both Petoskey and Harbor Springs.
What to Pack / Tips for Biking the Wheelway
Bikes
Helmet
Water Bottle
Snacks/ Picnic lunch
Bike Rentals
Bike Rentals
Needing to rent a bike or maybe you’d like to try out an E-bike for a lengthier ride? There are multiple stores that offer rentals in the area and can get you outfitted.
Bike Accessories
Let’s talk biking essentials. Here are two items that have facilitated greater ease while biking as a family with children of multiple age. During the baby years, we utilized the Instep Bike Trailers, which contains a seatbelt and storage. Even now that our children are older we still use it for transporting our towels, cooler, and sand toys to the beach.
Once you’ve moved past the infant/toddler stage, this is the ideal time for the Kazam Wee Ride Co-Pilot Bike Trailer. Attaching to an adult bike, allows your child to ride while pedaling behind you. Depending on your child’s size, we’ve maximized its use while my children were 3-6 years of age, or until they have built up the skill, endurance and confidence to ride independently for long stretches. We have this exact model in bright green; which is highly visible while on the road. Create additional security with an attached back seat including the seatbelt strap so you and your children can rest assured they won’t fall off.
Petoskey Downtown Trolley
If you don’t want to bike or walk, The Petoskey Downtown Trolley is a great option for seeing the area since it periodically stops at many popular spots in the area. If you’re with a group, you may prefer to call and schedule a set pickup time. If staying at Petoskey State Park Campground, it will pick you up. Some highlighted stops on the route include the downtown gazebo, library, Kilwins Chocolates, Petoskey Marina and Magnus Park.
Dogs
Pes are allowed. Please dispose of pet waste and keep the path clean.
Nearby Activities/ Things to Do Near Petoskey State Park with Kids
This area features beautiful towns along the coast, each containing their own charms. If you find time travel to nearby towns of Charlevoix, Harbor Springs, Boyne and Mackinaw City that showcase some of the best beaches, shopping, wineries, nature preserves, farmers markets, restaurants and coffee shops in northern Michigan.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Situated in nearby Harbor Springs, experience nature as you explore nature preserve. With an interactive nature center and multiple trails with unique features from boardwalks, creek crossings and a sandy area on Lake Michigan you can spend a half day exploring.
Pond Hill Farm Gnome Hunt
Pond Hill Farm While parents enjoy the music and wine, your children will be entertained while finding the hidden gnome houses along the trail, eating delicious pizza, petting the animals. There’s something for everyone.
Mackinac Island Explore this iconic island by bike or horse drawn carriage. Tons to do with children from hiking Arch Rock, eating delicious Mackinac Island Fudge, seeing butterflies or learning history at Fort Mackinac. Here’s a Guide to visiting Mackinaw Island for the Day.
Oden’s Fish Hatchery Visitor Center Tour hatchery, feed the fish and learn at Oden Fish Hatchery Tours.
Restaurants Nearby
Petoskey Brewing Company Hungry for a cheeseburger and micro brew, head to the “Old Brewery”
Petoskey Corner Scoops Get a scoop of scrumptious ice cream while in downtown Petoskey.
Pipers Delicious Pizza is what’s for dinner at Pipers.
Leggs Inn Travel to Cross Village, to Leggs Inn for authentic Polish Food.
Tom’s Moms Cookies in Harbor Springs This well- known spot is the place to grab some delicious cookies.
Back Lot Enjoy a kid-friendly atmosphere with food and drinks!
MIMs Stop at MIM’s restaurant for the best perch fry!
Final Thoughts
Calm morning at Petoskey State Park on Little Traverse Bay
Experience the incredible beauty of the Great Lakes in the Little Traverse Bay area. Your children and family will quickly become outdoor enthusiasts after cruising along the Little Traverse Wheelway and partaking in all the outdoor activities. Make sure to Pin and Save for later. If you found this guide helpful, follow Discovering Anew and let us help you plan your next trip. We love sharing reviews and guides for campground and Michigan day trips.
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