The best road cycling routes in Au Sable State Forest - Grayling Unit

There are 5 dedicated road cycling routes in the Au Sable State Forest - Grayling Unit, all categorized as easy, making them suitable for a wide range of cyclists.

The region generally offers flat to gently rolling terrain, making for pleasant rides. You'll find mostly paved paths, including the notable Grayling Bicycle Turnpike, with some routes featuring small hills, particularly closer to Hartwick Pines State Park.

Yes, all 5 routes in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for families. The Bright Lake loop from Grayling is a shorter option at just under 20 km, offering a scenic and manageable ride for most skill levels.

You'll experience diverse landscapes, including the winding Au Sable River, extensive pine and hardwood forests, and views of the unique Grayling outwash plain. Routes like the Mount Franklin – Au Sable River loop offer scenic riverine views.

Absolutely. The Grayling Bicycle Turnpike provides direct access to Hartwick Pines State Park, home to one of Michigan's last stands of old-growth pine forest. You can also cycle near lakes such as Higgins Lake, with routes like the North Higgins Lake State Park loop from Shell exploring the surrounding areas.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for road cycling. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer provides warm weather, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the South Crooked Lake loop from Cub Lake Public Access offers a scenic round trip.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful forest settings, the scenic river views, and the generally easy-going nature of the routes, making for a relaxing cycling experience.

Yes, Grayling and the surrounding state parks offer various parking options. Trailheads for routes often have designated parking areas, and Grayling itself provides convenient access to the cycling network.

Yes, Grayling is a significant point along the Iron Belle Trail's biking route. This statewide trail system utilizes existing paths and local roads, offering opportunities for longer road cycling tours that extend beyond the immediate forest area.

Yes, several routes venture near the region's lakes. The North Higgins Lake State Park loop from South Higgins Lake State Park provides extensive cycling opportunities around Higgins Lake, known for its clear waters.