The statewide shutdown order may have extended to the middle of the month, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a “shut in”. With social engagements, community events and other distractions at a halt, there’s never been a better time to get on your bike and explore the great outdoors! As warmer days continue to creep into the forecast, there’s no time like the present to explore some of the most exciting bike paths with your two-wheeled friend in one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the U.S., Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Border to Border Trail
Stretching across Washtenaw County, and offering a combination of hills and easy riding, the Border to Border Bike Trail allows you to ride along the Huron River and feel truly secluded in nature. Surrounded by wooded areas, the trail is nearly twenty miles long, with surfaces varying from asphalt, crushed stone, and boardwalk. Endpoints include Hudson Mills MetroPark, Main St., Dexter, Barton Nature Area, and Eastern Michigan University.
While the trail is still under construction, cyclists can use Huron River Driver to bridge the gap between the missing trail. On days when the weather is exceptionally pleasant, you’ll want to watch out for foot traffic as this trail is a popular destination for family outings, runners and dog walking.
Hudson Mills MetroPark
Located just 12 miles northwest of Ann Arbor, the Hudson Mills MetroPark sits near the Huron River and is complete with a three mile paved loop for bikers. If you are looking to do more than just bike, the MetroPark holds some of the most picturesque rapids in the area, and also boasts a golf course, extreme frisbee, and canoeing. Enjoy the perks of casual riding, as bike rental is available at the park all summer long. Looking to explore with a bike of your own? Keep things simple with a Detroit Bikes Sparrow. A hassle free bike that pairs perfectly with your riverside rides.
Waterloo State Recreation Area
If you’re in the market for an outdoor thriller, Waterloo State Recreation Area is an adventure haven you don’t want to miss. Sitting just thirty minutes outside of Ann Arbor, Waterloo State Recreation is the largest state park in the lower peninsula, spanning more than 20,000 acres with 10 miles of trail riding. With all available bike routes unpaved, you can find yourself engrossed in the nature and majesty of the U.P. without venturing far from home.
If considering trail vs. path riding, the best Detroit Bike to tackle a course like this would be the Axel. Think of the Axel as our version of a Sport Utility Vehicle. The bike has more gears than you need, front suspension, an oversized aluminum frame, disc brakes and giant tires. Take this bike wherever you ride this summer and have some fun, on or off road.
Nothing looks better cruising around Ann Arbor than our limited edition, custom Zingerman's Pickle Bike! Fit for foodies, this unique model has the same specs as our 3-speed internally geared A-Type, but includes a sharp green paint job and pickle decal as an ode to the beloved deli. Whether you’re exploring a local trail, campus, or main street, you’re sure to earn more than a few nods as you cruise comfortably around town.