Wheels on Rails Traverse City

Imagine the chance to glide along a railway where, instead of a heavy train, you’re on a light and modern bicycle. Traverse City offers travelers this exact kind of unique adventure: Wheels on Rails. This is a one-of-a-kind experience in the USA, allowing you to explore scenic parts of Michigan on specialized rail bikes that run along decommissioned railroad tracks.

The routes wind through dense forests in the southern part of the city, revealing views inaccessible to regular motorists. Guests can choose a 3-mile or 6-mile excursion using two-person tandems or four-person quads. Thanks to an integrated electric pedal-assist system, pedaling is effortless, making the attraction accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

To clarify trip details or for group bookings, you can use the official contact information. It is recommended to contact the organizers in advance, as demand for the tours is very high.

The main adventure begins the moment you take your seat on your rail bike and set off along the abandoned railroad. The primary activity here is pedaling through picturesque forests, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature and fresh air. The three-mile tour is designed so that the first half is very easy, while the return journey features a slight incline where the electric assist comes to the rescue.

This spot is perfect for families and large groups: groups of up to 38 people can take to the tracks at once using tandems or four-person bikes. It’s a great way to stay active and take unique photos against the backdrop of historic rails. Since demand for the tours is very high, it is recommended to book your spots online in advance, as walk-in availability is rare.

Finding this unusual attraction is quite easy—it’s located just south of the main city area in Grawn. The most reliable way to get there is by personal car. The drive from downtown Traverse City takes no more than 10–15 minutes via the US-31 highway, and there is on-site parking for guests.

If you prefer not to drive, a convenient option is to call a taxi or use ridesharing apps from the central districts. Public transport to this suburban zone runs on a limited schedule, so planning a complex bus route may be difficult. We recommend leaving with a bit of extra time to enjoy the drive through the picturesque outskirts of the USA.

Interestingly, Wheels on Rails Traverse City is a pioneer of its kind. It is the first enterprise of its type in the state of Michigan to breathe new life into unused railroad branches. The project launched in 2023 and instantly became a hit with locals and tourists seeking unique ways to enjoy outdoor recreation.

The success of this venture was officially recognized by the regional business community: in its opening year, the company received the prestigious New Business of the Year 2023 award. The creators of the attraction focused on safety and accessibility, using custom bikes designed specifically for travel on these rails.

Thanks to this approach, the historical heritage of the railroads—which once served industrial needs—has found a modern and eco-friendly second life. Today, these old tracks have become a place for creating new family memories and outdoor adventures.

When planning your visit to Wheels on Rails, allow about 1–2 hours for the standard three-mile route. The ride along the tracks themselves lasts approximately one hour, but additional time is required for the safety briefing, equipment preparation, and seating the group on the bikes.

For those choosing the longer 6-mile route, the total visit time can be up to 3 hours. The organizers advise arriving at the starting point at least 15–20 minutes before your booked time to check in and adjust the bike seats for maximum comfort.

Before heading out, it’s important to remember that this attraction is seasonal. Tours typically run from May through September. The exact schedule for specific dates, including the 2026 calendar, should be checked on the official website, as operating hours may vary based on daylight and weather conditions.

The attraction may currently be closed for the off-season, so be sure to check the current status before planning your trip. Remember that advanced online booking is required for a visit, as the number of bikes for each departure is strictly limited.

Exploring the surroundings of South Traverse City can greatly enrich your trip. Located very close to the rail bike base are entertainment complexes and historical sites worth including in your itinerary for a complete experience of the region.