Tunnel Of Trees
This is not only one of the most famous rides in Northern Michigan, but is known around the country for it’s beauty, technical ability, and extraordinary views of lake Michigan at either end. However, after a lifetime of traveling this road, I found that it lacks something when you follow the generic route and suggestions found on most websites. The ride is ultimately short, and the stops feel like they have catered to a million tourists and motorcyclists before. Here is where I would like to provide my extended version. Not just a longer path, but with stops that surpass the frequented Leggs inn; which by no means is not amazing but can lack the true local feel of Northern Michigan. Let me dive in and explain how I have perfected my day down the tunnel of trees with a day long ride that starts the morning in Mackinaw City ends with a cocktail overlooking Walloon Lake.
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My custom Map to take one of my favorite rides through Northern Michigan.
Starting point in Mackinaw
Don’t miss out on the views and the extra ride. Read on to hear why I start in Mackinaw and my thoughts on the route.
Many rides will start in Harbor Springs and head North. Others will start at Cross Village and head South. I find this is a limiting ride. This will leave you riding about 20 miles, and you will find the day to be open and unfilled. Starting the morning in Mackinaw City in the early morning, generally around 8-9 AM, allows me to get breakfast at the Pancake Chef, or even just a Coffee, and get some great pictures under the bridge. An entire day could be spent cruising through town and enjoying the sights and shops, but we have a busy day ahead, and so by 9AM, I start the ride heading south on US-31 to Carp Lake. I do recommend filling up in Mackinaw City, as that will easily carry you through the day without needing another refueling stop. It’s a quick, easy ride to Carp Lake that will turn off the highway and head toward Sturgeon Bay.
After turning off US-31 onto E. Gill Road it’s a simple straight right to the southern section of Wilderness State Park’s Sturgeon Bay. I caution many bikers coming this way that there are some quick curves as you enter the park before reaching the beach, which can have sand and some of Michigan’s famous pot holes. But a gentle speed and they are easily noticeable while riding, with plenty of room for avoiding any hazards.
The woods will open up to Dunes and some quick glimpses of Lake Michigan. This is a perfect swimming spot, or even a great area for some pictures and relaxing. Being only about 20 minutes into the trip, I generally push on, but would never blame anyone for stopping to see the beauty.
Just pass the beach area, N. Lake Shore Drive will turn and begin out trek down the tunnel of trees. This is where the fun begins, as the road will quickly become more complex. With some more curves, we begin to enjoy the leaning and thrill of acceleration that we are looking for on this ride. At this point, the road is still two full lanes. It’s a newer road that is smooth and generally very clear. Feel free to open it up some and enjoy the quick run to Cross Village.
The tourist’s true start of the tunnel of trees. Don’t underestimate it’s beauty. Take a moment for a picture and to take in some quick views of Lake Michigan.
Cross village is generally where tourists will stop for the first photo opportunities, and if heading North, have Lunch or dinner at the world-famous Leggs Inn. I definitely do recommend taking a moment for pictures and enjoy the scenery. It’s a one-of-a-kind restaurant with tons of character. I generally will push on for I find Harbor Springs or even Petoskey to have many more options. If you are a point for wanting a drink or something to eat, I highly recommend at this point to Take Levering Road to Larks Lake Rd, and in a few miles, you will find Moose Jaw Junction. Some of the best pizza in Northern Michigan, and a true local’s favorite.
Pushing forward, we reach Good Hart. There may not be much here, but this is generally my first true stop, The Good Hart General Store. I generally will grab a drink or snack, and sit under the trees enjoying the peacefulness of a true Northern Michigan countryside. Sandwiches from their Deli are made fresh, along with baked goods and snacks. Providing postal service, general provisions, and an area for locals to gather, this is a truly worthwhile stop to experience in it’s simplicity.
Perfect in it’s simplicity, the Good Hart General Store is a great stopping point before pushing on to Harbor Springs. (Photo Courtesy of Good Hart General Store’s Facebook Page)
Pushing on, we travel the next 13 miles to Harbor Springs. For those who like stops, you will be passing Pond Hill Farms, which is an ever-evolving local farm that constantly has events happening. If traveling seasonally, it may be worth a stop, but on my general travel for this trip, I pass by with a wave!
Entering Harbor Springs, this is a perfect time to stop for lunch. Generally, only about an hour or two into our trip, it would be an early lunch, but if you take your time it’s a perfect time to stop at Gurney’s Bottle Shop for a sandwich. Not only are they amazing, but as a to go sandwich, it provides a chance to walk up to the City Marina or public beach and eat while watching the sailboats cruising in the small bay Harbor springs sits on that opens up to Little Travers Bay.
Generally this point of my trip, I am still in the late morning; therefore, I push on M-119 to Petoskey. It’s only about 13 more miles, and not overly scenic; there are some fun points of interest we pass. Petoskey State Park, which I have reviewed as having some of the best in Northern Michigan, is somewhere to travel back to in the evening. You will also pass by Petoskey Brewery, which has a great historic feel with some amazing food, and just as memorable locally brewed beer.
Still pushing forward and turning on to US-31, I find where I would like to eat my lunch in the heart of downtown Petoskey, which is just past Bay View. The Backlot Beer Garden, which is a block off of Mitchell Street. With great outdoor seating, multiple food trucks, countless local and regional beers and spirits, it’s a great time to reflect on the ride so far, and stretch the legs. Being pet-friendly, many locals will bring their furry friends while they enjoy the Michigan summers we all love. If a more scenic stop is desired, Beard’s Brewery is my stopping point. Overlooking Little Traverse bay with both indoor and outdoor seating options, it’s a great place to truly unwind and get lost looking over the water. They also have opened the lower level, “The Root Cellar”, which always has locals hanging out, playing games, and enjoying a drink with friends.
After this welcomed break, I push on to Charlevoix. Continuing on US-31 (make sure you don’t miss the turn where US-131 continues after the Hospital), there is about 15 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan Coast. With many small roadside parks, feel free to stop for picture opportunities. Local or tourist, these stops never disappoint.
Once in Charlevoix, there are countless shops, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities. Generally, if I am going to stop in Charlevoix, I make that a destination and a day in itself. I will save reviews for Chalevoix for another day! I ride over the blue draw bridhe and through downtown, until I reach M-66, where I head to Ironton to take the ferry over the south arm of Lake Charlevoix. Make sure to be watching for the signs, as it’s easy to miss the turn onto Ferry Road.
Any time I am taking this trip, I like to make a quick pit stop at The Landing for a quick drink and snack. It’s a perfect time to stretch and watch the lake life. I then jump on the Ironton Ferry for the short ride across, which will require $5 cash.
Pushing on down Ferry Road, which turns into Lake Shore Drive, you wrap up the ride around Lake Charlevoix by coming to our final destination in Boyne City. MY favorite stopping point here is Red Mesa Grill. It has a range of Mexican, South American, and even Caribbean foods. The atmosphere is always fun, and locals and tourists alike come here for some great food.
As a bonus tip, if you don’t want to stay in Boyne, you can continue down State Road out of town and follow it over to Walloon Lake. This is another great stopping point at Barrell Back to grab a drink or dinner. It’s a bit more upscale, but the views over Lake Walloon make this a great, relaxing end to a long day.
Both Boyne and Walloon are central locations to head back to Petoskey, or head out to I-75 to continue to your next destination.
