Michigan Family Multi-Adventure Tour
Lakeside Bike Paths, Beaches & Mackinac Island
With car-free trails, giant dunes and ice cream stops around the bend, this Great Lakes adventure is made for families who love to ride and roam.
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 shoreline of Lake Michigan
- Cycle the quiet, car-free loop around Mackinac Island, with views of historic cottages, limestone bluffs and the turquoise waters of Lake Huron
- Ride a horse-drawn carriage through Mackinac Island’s storied streets, enjoying the island’s unique, no-cars culture
- Experience relaxed lakeside luxury at a waterfront resort and a historic island estate with pools, porches and gardens
- Savor fresh-from-the-farm Michigan flavors with lakeview 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 cherry orchards, bike-friendly streets and vibrant lake culture
- Ride the scenic TART Trail past vineyards, forests and views of Grand Traverse Bay
- Pedal through the Leelanau Peninsula toward Suttons Bay and historic Leland, where Fishtown’s weathered fish shanties and harborside ice cream await
- Cruise the peaceful Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail to the famous Dune Climb—kids race up the towering sands while adults continue along the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive overlooking Lake Michigan
- Unwind at our waterfront hotel on Grand Traverse Bay.
Nights 1-2
Deluxe Hotel
Set on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, this upscale waterfront hotel features modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor pool and a fine dining restaurant.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Paddle the peaceful waters of Boardman Lake and the Boardman River before ferrying to charming, car-free Mackinac Island
- Relax at a historic bluff-top retreat overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, where sailboats drift past and horse-drawn carriages replace cars
- Bike Mackinac Island’s iconic shoreline loop along the nation’s only car-free state highway, with opportunities to swim and explore along the way
- Kids enjoy games and ice cream while adults unwind and explore the island’s shops, waterfront and historic charm at their own pace
- Gather for a lively outdoor pizza-making dinner and lawn games overlooking Lake Huron
- Hike Mackinac Island’s scenic interior trails past Arch Rock, Sugar Loaf and Fort Holmes, then explore historic Fort Mackinac.
Nights 3-4
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 1-3
Kid-friendly routes are shorter with minimal elevation gain, primarily on bike paths and car free roads. Alternate kids’ activities are available on days with longer rides.
Hiking routes are on a mixture of forests, dunes, and shoreline and are characterized by occasional short and steep climbs. In the dunes and along the shore, footing can be soft and feel more challenging than the mileage suggests.
All breakfasts, four lunches, three dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Kids' bikes, trailer bikes, carriers and kid-sized helmets
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
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
