SBHT - Crystal River Trailhead

Heading out to the trailhead.

NPS credit

Quick Facts

Amenities

1 listed

Trailhead

Trail Map

A delight to ride, the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is one of Michigan's most beautiful biking trails. A 10-foot-wide picturesque path that winds idyllically through the pristine, tranquil forests and undulating hills of the Lakeshore, the multi-use trail connects major attractions in Sleeping Bear Dunes and is suitable for recreational use by cyclists, wheelchair users, runners pushing baby strollers, and rollerbladers.

Pets are NOT allowed on this trail from December 1 to March 31.

While most of the terrain is fairly easy, all ages can enjoy the trail. There are a couple of steeper segments, but these climbs are almost immediately rewarded by swift descents, and benches and picnic tables along the trail offer a place to rest and take in the sounds and sights of the cool forest or bask in the warm beach sun.

The SBHT is managed and maintained by Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and an excellent interactive map of the trail which can show trailheads, parking, water, steep climbs, etc can be found at http://friendsofsleepingbear.org/sbht-i-map/

Crystal Lake Trailhead

On the shores of the shimmering Crystal River, this Heritage Trail trailhead has vault toilets, parking, and a map of the SBHT.
From this trailhead, in both directions the trail is relatively flat for several miles, though once in Port Oneida it goes from paved asphalt to crushed limestone in keeping with the historical character of the Port Oneida district. The crushed limestone sectors are readily rideable, including on road bikes, with care, in most weather.
Bicycle rentals, parts, and repairs are available in nearby Glen Arbor, as are ski rentals and skiing supplies.

Winter skiing
In winter, the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes grooms segments of the trail for both classic Nordic skiers and skaters as well as providing a lane for snowshoers.

Trail Etiquette

Show consideration for other trail users
Stay on trail to be respectful of plants and wildlife
Stop at road crossings
Ride single file when other users are present
Ride slow and steady
Wear a helmet while skating or riding
Stay to right and alert others by saying "on your left" when passing
Do not block trail - please move to the side when stopped on trail
Keep pets on a leash
Dispose of all trash and animal waste in trash receptacles
Trail users need a park pass
Some of the SBHT passes through or in front of private property. Be careful and respectful of the rights of these property owners