Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Conway
Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Conway
4.8
(7886)
18,882
riders
Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Conway
02:10
48.2km
190m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 11.6 km for 215 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.94 km
Mud Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
7.24 km
Bay View Association and Historic Cottages
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
11.7 km
Bear River
Lake
13.5 km
Petoskey Bayfront Breakwater
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
13.8 km
Bear River
Highlight • River
Tip by
21.8 km
Menonaqua Woods Nature Preserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
22.7 km
View of Lake Michigan
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
24.0 km
Kalman Nature Preserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
32.5 km
Naas, Mauger, Raunecker Nature Preserve
Nature Reserve
44.8 km
South Round Lake Nature Preserve
Nature Reserve
47.0 km
Fochtman Nature Preserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
48.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
28.4 km
12.7 km
4.85 km
1.72 km
335 m
269 m
Surfaces
32.9 km
14.4 km
552 m
363 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 25 June
19°C
14°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that combines stunning Lake Michigan vistas with a serene river valley experience, the Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Conway is a fantastic choice. This moderate 30.0-mile (48.2 km) route, with 630 feet (192 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete, making it an excellent option for a rewarding half-day ride that showcases the best of Northern Michigan's diverse landscapes.
What to expect on Bear River – View of Lake Michigan loop from Conway
This route offers a dynamic cycling experience, starting perhaps by connecting to the renowned Little Traverse Wheelway. You'll glide along this paved path, soaking in breathtaking views of Little Traverse Bay, often described as Caribbean-blue on clear days. While the Wheelway is mostly flat, expect some rolling hills near Harbor Point and a longer climb to a railway overpass to keep things interesting. The route then diverts into the natural setting of the Bear River Valley Recreation Area in Petoskey, where you'll find a paved path winding alongside the whitewater of the Bear River, offering a serene contrast to the open bay views. This combination makes it suitable for a wide range of cyclists, from those seeking a leisurely scenic ride to those wanting a bit more variety.
Planning your visit
The Little Traverse Wheelway is well-maintained and predominantly paved, making it accessible for most road cyclists. While the Wheelway is generally open, be aware that a segment between East and Magnus Parks in Petoskey was previously closed due to erosion, with an unofficial detour on US-31 that is not recommended for inexperienced riders. The Bear River Valley Recreation Area connects directly to the Wheelway by crossing West Lake Street in Petoskey. Parking is available in Petoskey and other towns along the Wheelway, but it's always wise to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
Trail details
- Distance: 30.0 miles (48.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 630 feet (192 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
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