Betsie Valley Trail
A scenic 22-mile rail trail in Benzie County, Michigan, offering paved and gravel paths with beautiful views of Crystal Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Betsie Valley Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 22-mile rail trail in Benzie County, Michigan, offering paved and gravel paths with beautiful views of Crystal Lake.
"Loved the views from Beulah to Frankfort. Really pleasant and easy ride."
Check Trail Conditions
Trail upgrades are ongoing. Verify current conditions before your visit to ensure a smooth ride or run. :informationdeskperson:
Respect Trail Rules
Adhere to posted signs regarding pets, staying on the trail, and cyclist etiquette. :memo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Frankfort to Beulah Stretch
Beulah to Frankfort
Enjoy a smooth ride or run from Beulah to Frankfort, featuring paved paths and scenic views along Crystal Lake.
Crystal Lake Views
Near Beulah
Experience beautiful vistas of Crystal Lake as you traverse sections of the trail, perfect for a refreshing outdoor adventure.
Lighthouse & Beach Access
Frankfort
Reach the Frankfort beach and iconic lighthouse, offering a picturesque destination for cyclists and a great spot for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Upgrades in Progress
Trail Etiquette & Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Conditions
Trail upgrades are ongoing. Verify current conditions before your visit to ensure a smooth ride or run. :informationdeskperson:
Respect Trail Rules
Adhere to posted signs regarding pets, staying on the trail, and cyclist etiquette. :memo:
Bike to Frankfort
The paved section to Frankfort offers lovely views of Crystal Lake and leads to the beach and lighthouse. :bike:
Support Trail Maintenance
Consider donating to Friends of the Betsie Valley Trail to help with ongoing maintenance. :heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Conditions
Trail upgrades are ongoing. Verify current conditions before your visit to ensure a smooth ride or run. :informationdeskperson:
Respect Trail Rules
Adhere to posted signs regarding pets, staying on the trail, and cyclist etiquette. :memo:
Bike to Frankfort
The paved section to Frankfort offers lovely views of Crystal Lake and leads to the beach and lighthouse. :bike:
Support Trail Maintenance
Consider donating to Friends of the Betsie Valley Trail to help with ongoing maintenance. :heart:
Enjoy the Scenery
Take time to appreciate the natural beauty, including milkweed pods and lake views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Betsie Valley Trail for its beautiful scenery, particularly the paved sections leading to Frankfort and Crystal Lake. The trail is described as enjoyable and easy for biking, with many looking forward to exploring its full length. Some note the presence of rules, such as 'no pets,' which are important for all users to observe.
"We started in Beulah and biked to Frankfort. The 1st part of the path is fine gravel and it is easy to ride. After a few miles it is paved all the way to Frankfort, we rode to the beach and lighthouse. Fairly level and enjoyable ride. I look forward to riding the complete trail in the future."
Chris Stark
"Loved the views from Beulah to Frankfort. Really pleasant and easy ride. Thank you to the Residents that allow the trail through their property."
Darrin Mendrick
"Cyclists, please use the trail. It is quite nice."
Nick DeVries
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parking is available in Beulah and Frankfort, with additional access points along the trail. Many visitors start in Beulah to enjoy the paved section towards Frankfort.
The trail features both fine gravel and paved sections. While upgrades are making it smoother, it's generally suitable for most bikes, including road bikes on paved areas.
You can typically find a Betsie Valley Trail map online through local tourism sites or trail organizations. Searching 'Betsie Valley Trail map' will yield several options.
Yes, the Betsie Valley Trail is a 22-mile rail trail that extends from Frankfort to Thompsonville, offering multiple entry and exit points.
The trail itself is for non-motorized use. Parking areas are generally designed for cars, but check specific trailhead information for RV suitability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Betsie Valley Trail is a public trail and does not have an entrance fee. Donations to support trail maintenance are appreciated.
As an outdoor trail, the Betsie Valley Trail is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no specific operating hours posted.
No, advance booking is not required to use the Betsie Valley Trail. It's open for public use.
The trail is open for public use, but it's best to use it during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Be mindful of any posted rules.
The trail has been used for events like the Ironman Michigan 70.3. For organized events, you would typically need to coordinate with the trail management or local authorities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trail has undergone upgrades, with sections featuring fine gravel and others that are paved. This makes for a generally smooth experience for biking and running.
Yes, the Betsie Valley Trail is excellent for running, especially the paved sections. It's a popular spot for runners looking for scenic routes.
According to posted rules, pets are not allowed on the Betsie Valley Trail. Please respect this guideline.
Expect beautiful views of Crystal Lake, natural landscapes, and even opportunities to see local flora like milkweed pods.
The relatively level terrain and paved sections make it suitable for families, though the 'no pets' rule should be considered.
📸 📸 Photography
The stretch near Frankfort offers great photo opportunities with the beach and lighthouse. Views of Crystal Lake are also picturesque.
While not guaranteed, you might encounter local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for interesting plants like milkweed pods.
Yes, the clear paths and scenic backdrops make it easy to capture dynamic shots of cyclists enjoying the Betsie Valley Bike Trail.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The Frankfort lighthouse and the shores of Crystal Lake are prominent landmarks that make for excellent photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note the 'No pets' rule on the trail, so plan accordingly if you have furry family members. Also, be mindful of other users, as cyclists are encouraged to use the trail, so keeping children aware of their surroundings is key for a safe and enjoyable family outing.
🚴 Cyclists & Runners
Recent upgrades are enhancing the trail's appeal, making it even more enjoyable for dedicated athletes. Whether you're training for an event like the Ironman Michigan 70.3 or just seeking a scenic workout, the Betsie Valley Trail run routes are well-regarded. Remember to check for any ongoing construction that might impact your route.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for natural details, like the delicate milkweed pods, which can add unique texture and interest to your photos. The clear paths also make it easy to capture dynamic action shots of cyclists and runners against the beautiful Michigan landscape.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Betsie Valley Trail Experience
This trail is more than just a path; it's a gateway to the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. As you traverse its length, you'll be treated to stunning views of Crystal Lake, particularly along the popular stretch between Beulah and Frankfort. This section is often highlighted for its pleasant, easy ride, culminating in access to the Frankfort beach and its iconic lighthouse, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely day out.
Community involvement plays a significant role in maintaining and improving the Betsie Valley Trail. Organizations like the Friends of the BVT actively seek support for trail maintenance, ensuring it remains a top-tier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of trail etiquette, including respecting posted rules and private property, to preserve the trail's appeal for everyone.
+1Navigating the Betsie Valley Trail
The surface of the trail is a key consideration for visitors. While sections are being paved, you'll also encounter fine gravel. This variety means that while most bikes are suitable, a road bike will be most comfortable on the paved portions, and a hybrid or gravel bike will handle the gravel sections with ease.
When planning your visit, it's wise to check for any ongoing trail upgrades or maintenance. These efforts, while beneficial in the long run, might temporarily affect certain sections. Being aware of posted rules, such as 'No pets,' is also crucial for a smooth and respectful experience on the Betsie Valley Bike Trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit