The best cycling routes around Bay Shore
4.4
(10)
119
riders
5
rides
Touring cycling around Bay Shore features routes that navigate along the shores of Lake Michigan, through nature preserves, and alongside rivers. The terrain includes gentle elevations and coastal paths, offering varied landscapes for cyclists. The region is characterized by its freshwater bayfronts, wooded areas, and open views of the lake.
Best touring cycling routes around Bay Shore
- The most popular touring cycling route is Susans Creek Nature Preserve – Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater loop from Charlevoix Township, a 31.5 miles…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(4)
41
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
38
riders
47.8km
02:50
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
17
riders
85.3km
05:05
390m
390m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
9
riders
22.6km
01:20
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
23.9km
01:27
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Bay Shore
Tips from the Community
The Bay View Association is a collection of historic Victorian cottage homes. It operates for six months during the summer and offers educational programs for adults and children, including a music college, a weekday kids club, and a women's council. The neighborhood remains unoccupied from October to March.
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A lovely spot to take a break off the bike and admire the impressive view of Lake Michigan. Perfect on a summer's day.
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The Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater, located in Michigan, serves as a protective barrier for the harbour. It has played a vital role in facilitating commerce and ensuring safe navigation along the Great Lakes, preserving the region's maritime heritage. A great spot to walk the bikes up to and take a break.
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This park is renowned for its abundance of Petoskey stones, fossilized coral with mesmerizing patterns. Keep your eyes peeled while walking the beach, you might just discover a unique treasure!
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Starting as the outflow of Walloon Lake, the upper 13 miles offer calm, flat water flowing through wetlands and marshes. It's ideal for peaceful canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
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The trails through Susans Creek Nature Preserve take you past hardwood forests, meadows, black ash swamp and cedar thickets. It's a fantastic place to spot wildlife. In winter, it's a great place for easy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
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Sharp climb when heading East. Loose large gravel
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Bay Shore?
There are 5 dedicated touring cycling routes around Bay Shore, offering a variety of experiences from easy to difficult.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Bay Shore offers 2 easy touring cycling routes. A good option is the Susans Creek Nature Preserve loop from Charlevoix Township, which is 14 miles (22.5 km) long and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the touring cycling routes in Bay Shore?
The routes in Bay Shore feature diverse landscapes, including bayfronts, wooded areas, and open views of Lake Michigan. You'll also find paths along rivers and through nature preserves, offering a mix of natural beauty.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, there is one difficult touring cycling route in Bay Shore. The Bear River – Petoskey State Park loop from Bay Shore is 53 miles (85.3 km) long with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 5 hours to complete.
Do the touring cycling routes in Bay Shore offer views of Lake Michigan?
Absolutely. Several routes provide expansive views of Lake Michigan. For example, the Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Bay Shore is specifically designed to showcase these scenic vistas.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Bay Shore?
The touring cycling routes in Bay Shore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Cyclists often praise the combination of natural preserve scenery, bayfront views, and well-maintained paths.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Bay Shore?
The best time for touring cycling in Bay Shore is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Are the touring cycling routes in Bay Shore typically circular?
Yes, all the listed touring cycling routes in Bay Shore are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without needing to arrange return transport.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife on the touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass through or near nature preserves, such as Susans Creek Nature Preserve, increasing the chances of spotting local wildlife. These natural areas provide habitats for various birds and small animals.
Where can I find parking near the touring cycling routes in Bay Shore?
Parking availability varies by starting point. Many routes originate from or pass through areas with public parking, such as parks or designated trailheads. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.
Are there any routes that follow river paths?
Yes, some routes incorporate river paths, offering a different natural experience. The Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Bay Shore, for instance, leads through river valleys.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in Bay Shore?
The durations vary significantly based on the route's length and difficulty. Easy routes can take around 1 hour 20 minutes, while moderate routes like the Susans Creek Nature Preserve – Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater loop from Charlevoix Township take about 3 hours. The most difficult routes can extend to over 5 hours.
Most popular routes around Bay Shore
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