The best traffic-free bike rides in Antrim County

There are currently 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Antrim County featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, ensuring a pleasant ride away from vehicular traffic.

Yes, Antrim County offers several easy, no-traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Forest Lake loop from Boyne Valley Township is a gentle 21.65 km ride with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Roadbike loop from Clam River, which is just over 22 km and also considered easy.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Antrim County generally feature well-paved surfaces. While many routes are relatively flat, offering easy rides, some moderate options include gentle climbs. For example, the Old Baldy loop from Elk Rapids Township has an elevation gain of around 211 meters over its 40.46 km distance, providing a bit more challenge while still being manageable.

Absolutely. Antrim County is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Many routes will take you through picturesque landscapes, often near the Chain of Lakes or offering glimpses of Grand Traverse Bay. While specific viewpoints are not always marked, the entire region provides breathtaking scenery, from hardwood forests to coastal dunes. The Elk River – Public Access loop from Elk Rapids Township, for instance, offers beautiful views around the Elk River area.

The best time to cycle in Antrim County is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for combining cycling with swimming in the lakes, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage.

While this guide focuses on routes up to moderate difficulty, some of the longer no-traffic options can provide a good workout. The Elk River – Public Access loop from Elk Rapids Township covers over 42 km, and the Old Baldy loop from Elk Rapids Township is just over 40 km, both offering moderate challenges with their distances and some elevation.

All the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are designed as circular loops. This means you'll start and end at the same point, making logistics easier and allowing you to experience varied scenery throughout your ride without retracing your path.

Antrim County offers a wide array of outdoor activities to complement your cycling. You can enjoy hiking in natural areas like Antrim Creek, swimming in the Chain of Lakes (including Torch Lake), kayaking, fishing, or bird watching. The historic Antrim City Schoolhouse also provides a cultural point of interest. For more information on the Antrim Creek Natural Area, you can visit visitcharlevoix.com.

While the routes themselves are designed for traffic-free cycling, Antrim County is rich with natural landmarks. You'll often find yourself near the stunning Chain of Lakes, including the renowned Torch Lake. The region also boasts areas like the Antrim Creek Natural Area with its undeveloped Grand Traverse Bay shoreline. Keep an eye out for local points of interest as you explore the scenic roads.

Parking availability varies by route. Generally, routes starting from townships like Elk Rapids or Boyne Valley will have public parking options nearby. For example, routes like the Elk River – Public Access loop and the Old Baldy loop, both starting from Elk Rapids Township, will have convenient access to public parking in the area.