The best cycling routes in Mackinac County

Mackinac County offers a diverse selection of over 15 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 14 easy and 2 moderate options, ensuring there's a suitable path for almost every cyclist.

You'll find a mix of terrain. Mackinac Island features mostly flat, paved coastal paths, like the iconic M-185, perfect for a relaxed ride. The island's interior trails, within Mackinac Island State Park, offer more rugged, unpaved segments with varying elevation for those seeking a more challenging experience. On the mainland, St. Ignace provides multi-use trails, including forested hills and exposed bedrock, as seen on the Silver Mountain Hike & Bike Trail.

Yes, Mackinac Island is particularly well-suited for families due to its car-free environment. The 8.2-mile M-185 route that circles the island's coastline is mostly flat and paved, making it ideal for all skill levels, including children. Routes like Arch Rock – Sunset Rock (Chimney Rock) loop from Mackinac Island are excellent choices for a family outing.

Mackinac County is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. On Mackinac Island, you can cycle past Arch Rock, a stunning natural limestone formation, and enjoy panoramic views from Sunset Rock (Chimney Rock). The British Landing – Lake Shore Boulevard loop from Mackinac Island State Park offers views of Lake Huron. From the mainland, routes like Mackinac Bridge view – Mackinac Island Ferry loop from Mackinaw City provide extensive views of the iconic Mackinac Bridge. You can also visit Castle Rock Observation Deck in St. Ignace for elevated vistas.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Mackinac County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For instance, the Mackinac Island – Arch Rock loop from Mackinac Island State Park and the Mackinac Island State Park – Arch Rock loop from Mackinac Island State Park are popular circular options on Mackinac Island, allowing you to explore without retracing your steps.

The best time for touring cycling in Mackinac County is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and all attractions and ferry services are fully operational. The fall offers particularly beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

The touring cycling routes in Mackinac County are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.99 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning views of Lake Huron, the unique car-free experience on Mackinac Island, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various abilities.

Mackinac Island is generally dog-friendly, and dogs are permitted on the M-185 coastal road and many of the island's trails, provided they are on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations for interior trails or other mainland routes like the Silver Mountain Hike & Bike Trail in St. Ignace to ensure compliance.

While many routes are easy, Mackinac County does offer options for those seeking a bit more challenge. The interior trails of Mackinac Island State Park provide more rugged, unpaved terrain with varying elevation gains. Additionally, some mainland routes, such as the Mullett Lake – Indian River loop from Cheboygan, are rated as moderate and cover longer distances with more elevation changes.

Mackinac Island is car-free, so you'll need to take a ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. Parking is available at the ferry docks on the mainland. In St. Ignace, you can find parking in town to access trails like the Silver Mountain Hike & Bike Trail. Public transport primarily involves the ferry services to Mackinac Island.

Yes, both Mackinac Island and St. Ignace offer a variety of amenities. Mackinac Island has numerous cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, particularly in the main village. St. Ignace also provides a range of dining and lodging choices, especially along its waterfront, making it convenient for cyclists to refuel and rest.

Absolutely. For road bikes, the paved M-185 coastal road on Mackinac Island is perfect. Many of the easy, paved loops are also ideal for road bikes. If you prefer mountain biking, the interior trails of Mackinac Island State Park offer more rugged, unpaved terrain. On the mainland, the Silver Mountain Hike & Bike Trail in St. Ignace is specifically designed for mountain bikers, featuring flow-style riding with bermed corners and rock elements.