Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART)

Exploring Traverse City via the Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART)

One of the best ways to experience Traverse City is through the Traverse Area Recreation Trail, commonly known as TART. This extensive network of multiuse trails stretches across Grand Traverse County, the Leelanau Peninsula, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore.

TART Trail System Overview

The TART trail system, primarily designed for biking, offers various routes that cover different terrains and attractions:

• Tart in Town Trail: This trail runs through the heart of Traverse City.
• Waterfront Trails: These trails run along the water and lead to significant natural attractions, including Clinch Park and Traverse City State Park.
• Boardman Lake Trail: A scenic trail passing through wooded areas around Boardman Lake.
• Boardman River Trail: A picturesque trail along the Boardman River.
• Leelanau Trail: This trail ends at Suttons Bay, a charming lakefront town.

Additionally, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore includes its own TART trail, covering 20 miles of diverse terrain.

Visitor Feedback and Tips

Recent visitors have praised the TART system as a valuable asset to Traverse City. Key points from their feedback include:

• Well-Maintained: Visitors appreciated the well-marked and well-maintained trails.
• Preparation is Key: It's important to research the trails beforehand. Some trails feature steep inclines, while others may not be as scenic as expected.
• Avoid Crowds: To avoid crowded trails, consider hiking or biking during off-peak hours.

Please note that there are no set hours for using TART trails, and no admission fee is required to access them. For more information, visit the official Traverse Area Recreation Trail website.