Traverse City Area Trails

[gregm]

Does anybody know of any good trails in the Traverse City Area? I'm going to be up there around the 4th of July and want to hit some dirt, so to speak. The more technical, the better. I have heard some of the ski areas set up downhills during the summer, but can't find anything on the 'net. If anyone is interested in trails in Indiana, drop me a note, I ride several here in Hoosier-Land.

[Spinner]

I'm not exactly sure of which are good mountain biking trails, but there are a ton of trails up there. Lots of snowmobile and dirtbike trails to ride on. Try to get a hold of a really detailed snowmobile map for Traverse City, and you shoudl be good to go.


SPINNER

[Ron L]

gregm, a few of the greatest trails are either near Traverse or on the way from Indiana.

Of course, there's the North Country Trail. I'm familiar with the area around Cadillac. Go to www.northcountrytrail.org for more info.

Then, in Bellaire, at Schush Mountain/Shanty Creek, there are trails that NORBA used to use for their national races. These trails are a blast if you're in shape. Some areas are plain fun, some are a technical training ground, and some are downright treacherous, but if you're cautious, they're all fun.

There are planty of other trails on your way too. Check MMBA.org for a list of their trails.

[GreatLakesOutfitters]

Dude (I had to say it) definately go to the VASA singletrack. It is out off Supply Rd. It is a great technical trail. It is all singletrack and well groomed. Not alot of climbing but some ncie tight areas.
I ride it probably a dozen times a year. It is a 13 mile loop that starts and ends at the same lot. Do yourself a favor and get one of the maps at the trailhead. GO THERE!!!!
Someone else mentioned the North Counrty Trail. That is probably second on my list. One of the best spots is over between Kalkaska and Grayling off of highway 612. take your GPS and spend the day out there. Get a MAP! it is a very long trail that eventually goes across most of the state. I usually rid efor a couple of hours and turn around.
Boyne Mtn. has a good course. I have that one memorized. I did a 12 hour solo race there. Tons of climbing, especially after the 12th lap in the dark! They also have a downhill course there that is also part of the Cross Country course. Really bumpy and fast.
Did I mention the climbs?????
Keep posting and I give you some more tips.
I can't wait for this summer. I've decided to quit racing and start having fun riding my bike.
Chad@GLO