In Grawn, Michigan you can ride a historic railway through the woods, traveling as fast as your legs can pedal at Wheels on Rails. Located less than 10 miles from Traverse City, which happens to be the cherry capital of the world, this unique rail biking experience is an adventure you’ll want to add to your bucket list immediately.
At Wheels on Rails, you can expect an exhilarating experience that allows you to ride special bikes on an out-of-service rail line. Take in breathtaking sights under the power of your own two legs. Don't worry, though... there is zero danger of a passing train interrupting your fun afternoon with family - Wheels on Rails runs on a privately-owned, out-of-service rail line.
Visitors can ride the rails on two- or four-person recumbent bikes. Past visitors report that the biking was easier than expected, making this activity accessible to kids of all ages.
The first-ever of its kind in Michigan, the rail biking trail at Wheels on Rails winds through the woods near Traverse City. In the spring, this is a gorgeous area for spotting butterflies.
During the ride, which can take from one to almost two hours, rail bikers can expect to see small creeks and many spring wildflowers. This quiet ride truly allows you to take in the magic of nature.
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At Wheels on Rails in Grawn, Michigan, you have your choice of two rails to ride. The Hoosier Valley Hotshot is about six miles in distance and takes more than 90 minutes to complete. The other rail trail is about three miles long, called the M-37 Expedition, and it takes just about an hour to complete.
Not all of your views will be of trees and wildflowers, though. The spot where riders turn around to head back is located underneath a bridge that is filled with graffiti. It's kind of an urban oasis in the midst of the Michigan woods.
This bridge is just one of many excellent photo opportunities on this Grawn, Michigan rail biking trail. Now, I've only been in Michigan for a couple of years, but that is more than enough time to learn that Michganders can't depend on the weather.
It might rain on the day of your reservation, but don't worry - Wheels on Rails is prepared. This activity is rain or shine. Wheels on Rails even sells ponchos just in case you forget to bring your own!
The only time the rails don't run is when there is the threat of thunder and lightning. So be sure to keep an eye on the weather before your visit.
When we say all ages and abilities can partake in Wheels on Rails' unique rail biking adventures, we are not exaggerating. The lovely rider above is only 95 years young! The bike seats are recumbent, which feels way more relaxing than a typical bike.
Plus, if you get tired of pedaling, you can just sit back a bit, taking in the gorgeous nature that surrounds you. Let the other folks riding with you take care of the pedaling for a while.
Wheels on Rails is new to Michigan, opening in 2023 to rave reviews. Visitors from all over the country have ridden the rails through the forests of Grand Traverse County, Michigan.
Maybe you can add the next pin? With such a cool activity, it feels like Wheels on Rails will need a bigger map in a couple of years!
With an activity as fun as rail biking through the Grand Traverse County, Michigan woods, I can see the fan base of this new Mitten State activity growing exponentially in the next few years. Good thing you're learning about it early, huh?
Next time you are looking for a unique Michigan adventure to take with your family or friends, look no further than Wheels on Rails. This incredible rail biking experience is so much fun, that it could become an annual tradition! Don’t forget to bring your poncho, just in case, though.
While you’re in the area, we can’t recommend checking our Traverse City proper enough. It is the Cherry Capital of the World, after all.
Have you been on an unusual or unique adventure in Michigan? We’d love to hear about it! Tell us in the comments!
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