Boardman Lake Loop, vital year round trail for Traverse City

The Boardman Lake Loop runs just south of downtown Traverse City and serves as a key non motorized corridor for residents and visitors. The roughly four mile loop connects Hull Park, Medalie Park, the Traverse Area District Library, NMC’s University Center and a number of downtown trailheads and businesses, providing safe walking and rolling access between neighborhoods and destinations. Ownership and maintenance of the trail are managed through a partnership of the City of Traverse City, Grand Traverse County, Garfield Township and TART Trails.

Trail infrastructure includes boardwalk sections, bridges over the Boardman Ottaway River, lookout piers and kayak launches along the waterfront. Several parking access points, including the Oryana and 10th Street trailhead, the Hannah Road area and Medalie Park, make short outings practical for families and seniors. The loop hosts community events such as the Loop The Lake race and regular community walks, and it functions as a daily recreation and commuting route for many people across the county.

From a public health perspective the loop reduces barriers to physical activity by offering an affordable, accessible place for exercise and active transportation year round. Winter use for walking, cross country skiing and fat tire biking extends opportunities for outdoor activity during colder months, which matters for physical and mental health alike. ADA accessibility information is available for people planning visits, and clear access points help seniors and those with mobility limitations choose manageable routes.

The shared governance model that keeps the loop maintained demonstrates local cooperation, but it also highlights the importance of stable funding and coordinated winter maintenance to keep the trail safe and usable for commuters, families and older adults. Prioritizing lighting, surface upkeep and snow clearance can reduce injury risk and broaden the trail’s benefit to underserved households who rely on non motorized travel.

For maps, route details, parking and ADA accessibility information visit TART Trails' official Boardman Lake Loop page and Traverse City tourism listings to plan your next visit and to check conditions before you go.