Boardman Lake Loop Trail
A scenic 4-mile loop around Boardman Lake, connecting Traverse City's downtown with natural beauty. Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outd...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Boardman Lake Loop Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 4-mile loop around Boardman Lake, connecting Traverse City's downtown with natural beauty. Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.
"This 4-mile trek wraps around the lake, granting access to downtown attractions and businesses."
🚶♀️ Walk, Bike, or Roll!
Perfect for walking, running, biking, and even onewheeling! Great for strollers too.
☕️ Connect to Local Spots
The trail links to great places like Oryana, The Filling Station, and Right Brain Brewery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Full 4-Mile Loop
Boardman Lake
Complete a scenic 4-mile circuit around Boardman Lake, offering diverse views and experiences.
Urban & Natural Blend
Various points along the trail
Experience a mix of city access and serene natural beauty, with bridges and boardwalks.
Downtown Traverse City Access
Trailheads near downtown
Easily connect to local shops, restaurants, and breweries from the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Completion & Access
Best for All Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Bike, or Roll!
Perfect for walking, running, biking, and even onewheeling! Great for strollers too.
☕️ Connect to Local Spots
The trail links to great places like Oryana, The Filling Station, and Right Brain Brewery.
☀️ Enjoy All Seasons
Beautiful in summer, but also a peaceful winter walk.
🎣 Fishing & Kayak Access
Look for designated fishing decks and kayak launches along the route.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Bike, or Roll!
Perfect for walking, running, biking, and even onewheeling! Great for strollers too.
☕️ Connect to Local Spots
The trail links to great places like Oryana, The Filling Station, and Right Brain Brewery.
☀️ Enjoy All Seasons
Beautiful in summer, but also a peaceful winter walk.
🎣 Fishing & Kayak Access
Look for designated fishing decks and kayak launches along the route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Boardman Lake Loop Trail's scenic beauty and its seamless connection to Traverse City's downtown amenities. The recently completed 4-mile loop is praised for its accessibility and year-round appeal, offering a perfect blend of nature and urban convenience. Some minor concerns include occasional crowdedness during peak times and the varied terrain on newer sections.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boardman Lake Loop Trail is accessible from multiple points around the lake. Popular access areas include downtown Traverse City, near Clinch Park, and various neighborhood access points. You can easily join the trail for a portion or the entire 4-mile loop.
Parking availability varies by access point. Downtown Traverse City offers several parking options, some of which may require payment. Neighborhood access points might have limited street parking. It's recommended to check TART Trails for specific parking recommendations near your desired starting point.
While direct public transport stops directly on the trail might be limited, Traverse City's public transit system can get you close to various access points, especially those near downtown. Check with Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) for routes and schedules.
Yes, the trail's connection to downtown Traverse City makes it accessible for those using public transport to reach the city center. From there, it's a short walk to the trail.
The TART Trails website is an excellent resource for maps and trailhead information. You can also use navigation apps that show local trails, often marking access points clearly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Boardman Lake Loop Trail is a public trail and does not require any tickets or admission fees for general use. It's free for everyone to enjoy!
The trail itself is free to use. Any fees would be associated with parking in certain areas or if you choose to patronize businesses along the route.
The Boardman Lake Loop Trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, year-round. However, specific access points or facilities might have their own hours.
There's no need to reserve a spot. The trail is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Boardman Lake Loop Trail is typically open year-round. While winter conditions might affect accessibility, it is not officially closed.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Boardman Lake Loop Trail is approximately 4 miles long, completing a full circuit around Boardman Lake.
The trail offers a varied terrain, including paved sections, boardwalks, bridges, and some gravel or dirt paths, especially on the newer sections.
Many sections of the trail, particularly the paved and boardwalk areas, are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Some of the newer, unpaved sections might be more challenging.
Yes, there are benches and rest stops along the trail, including some provided by local organizations.
Absolutely! The trail features designated fishing decks and kayak launches, providing convenient access to Boardman Lake for these activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalks and bridges offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding nature. The mix of urban and wooded areas provides diverse photographic opportunities. Don't miss the reflections on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, the trail offers beautiful opportunities for sunrise and sunset photography, with the lake providing a stunning backdrop. The eastern side of the loop is particularly good for sunrise.
Nature photography, landscape shots of the lake, and urban-nature blend shots are all excellent. It's also great for capturing people enjoying outdoor activities.
The various bridges and boardwalks are distinctive features. Keep an eye out for public art installations or unique natural formations along the lake's edge.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best light. Midday can be bright, but the shaded wooded sections can still provide good opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Parents can easily access the trail from various points, allowing for flexible start and end times. The mix of scenery, from wooded areas to lake views, keeps children engaged. Plus, the ability to easily connect to downtown Traverse City means you can combine a trail adventure with a meal or a visit to a local shop.
+1🚴♀️ Cyclists and Runners
+2Cyclists will appreciate the integration with the broader TART Trails system, allowing for extended routes. Runners can enjoy the consistent path for tracking their mileage. The trail's accessibility from downtown also means you can easily incorporate a ride or run into a day of exploring Traverse City.
🚶♂️ Leisurely Strollers & Dog Walkers
Many sections are paved or feature smooth boardwalks, making it comfortable for everyone. The ability to access the trail from different points means you can tailor the length of your walk to your preference. Remember to keep dogs leashed and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all users.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Connecting Traverse City: The TART Trails System
+1This loop not only offers a fantastic recreational amenity but also integrates seamlessly with other TART Trails, allowing for longer journeys and exploration of the wider region. The project involved extensive planning and construction, including the use of specialized equipment like floating excavators for sensitive wetland areas, showcasing the commitment to environmental stewardship during development.
For visitors and locals alike, understanding the TART Trails system provides context for the importance of the Boardman Lake Loop. It's more than just a trail; it's part of a larger vision for active transportation and outdoor recreation in Northern Michigan, encouraging people to explore their surroundings sustainably.
+1A Trail for Every Season
+1As fall arrives, the trail transforms with a stunning display of autumn colors, providing a picturesque backdrop for hikes and bike rides. The crisp air and changing leaves create a serene atmosphere, perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Winter brings a magical transformation, with snow-covered landscapes making the loop a tranquil escape for snowshoeing or peaceful winter walks. While some sections might be less maintained after heavy snowfall, the quiet beauty is a unique draw.
Spring awakens the trail with blooming flora and returning wildlife, signaling the start of another active season. The gradual warming of the weather makes it a pleasant time to revisit favorite spots or explore new sections of the loop.
Connecting with Local Flavors
+2Popular spots frequently mentioned include Oryana Community Co-op for healthy snacks and groceries, The Filling Station for a casual meal, and Right Brain Brewery for craft beer enthusiasts. For those looking for a sweet treat, Rocket Fizz is a popular stop. These establishments are not just destinations but part of the trail experience, offering places to refuel, relax, and soak in the local atmosphere.
This seamless blend of trail access and urban convenience is a significant draw for visitors and locals alike. It transforms a simple walk or bike ride into a more comprehensive outing, highlighting the best of what Traverse City has to offer.
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Social
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