Michigan Bike Tour
Mackinac Island, Wine Country & Great Lake Beauty
From the vineyards and cherry orchards of Traverse City to the charm of Mackinac Island, pedal through the scenic corners of northern Michigan along country roads, lakeshores and small towns.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Pedal scenic trails through vineyards, cherry orchards and along the shores of Lake Michigan
- Cruise the quiet, car-free loop around Mackinac Island, with views of historic cottages, limestone bluffs and the turquoise waters of Lake Huron
- Travel by horse-drawn carriage through Mackinac Island’s storied streets and learn about the island’s unique no-cars culture
- Unwind at lakeside retreats, from a vineyard estate on the Leelanau Peninsula to a historic blufftop property overlooking the Straits of Mackinac
- Savor farm-fresh Michigan flavors at lakeside picnics and sunset dinners
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Traverse City Airport & Travel Details
- Meet in Traverse City, a lively waterfront town known for its vibrant arts scene
- Bike the scenic TART Trail past cherry orchards, vineyards and views of Grand Traverse Bay
- Ride toward Suttons Bay and historic Leland, where Fishtown’s weathered fish shanties and harborfront ice cream shops capture the spirit of region
- Cycle sections of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail through forests, farmland and lakeshore landscapes to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Climb the towering sands of the famous Dune Climb for sweeping views of Lake Michigan
- Relax at our peaceful hotel on the Leelanau Peninsula.
Nights 1-2
Deluxe Hotel
Surrounded by vineyards, orchards and rolling countryside on Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula, this intimate inn offers elegant rooms and peaceful grounds on a working winery and farm estate.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Bike Old Mission Peninsula, a narrow finger of land dividing the waters of Grand Traverse Bay
- Pedal past iconic Northern Michigan scenery en route to Mission Point Lighthouse
- Enjoy a tasting at a local vineyard
- Explore Traverse City’s Dennos Museum Center, home to an acclaimed collection of Inuit art and contemporary exhibitions.
Night 3
Luxury Hotel
Set along the shores of Walloon Lake, this welcoming lakeside hotel reflects the region's classic summer-resort character, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the water and countryside.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Ride the Little Traverse Wheelway, which links waterfront towns and quiet stretches of countryside
- Spin beneath a canopy of hardwood forest along the legendary Tunnel of Trees, stopping at a nostalgic roadside market known for its homemade pies and classic Up North charm
- Ferry to enchanting, car-free Mackinac Island, home to our elegant blufftop retreat overlooking the Straits of Mackinac
- Bike the island’s iconic shoreline loop (and the nation’s only car-free state highway)
- Explore wooded interior trails, browse charming shops and fudge stores, or simply relax and settle into island time
- Rise early and set out on two wheels for a sunrise ride to Voyageurs Bay
- Watch the sun rise over the water as Mackinac Island comes to life.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
This peaceful escape on Mackinac Island offers elegant rooms, sweeping views of the Straits of Mackinac and easy access to nature trails.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Traverse City Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 2-4
All breakfasts, five lunches, four dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Fully equipped Backroads titanium bike, Wahoo GPS device, helmet and accessories
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
