Winter Trails Guide for Grand Traverse County Residents and Visitors

Grand Traverse County’s winter trail system provides accessible outdoor recreation for many residents and visitors, and county and trail partners continue seasonal work to keep routes safe and usable. The Vasa trail network remains a core destination for nordic skiing, fat biking and multi use winter travel. The Vasa Trailhead off Bartlett Road has been part of recent planning and grant funded efforts to expand parking, improve stormwater management and add trail connections. Users should check grooming status before visiting and be mindful of conditions during freeze and thaw periods that can affect parking and trail surfaces.

The Boardman Lake Loop, also called the Boardman Loop Trail, is a roughly four mile route that circles the lake and is reachable from Hull Park and downtown access points. The route mixes paved segments, boardwalks and short gravel sections and is frequently cleared for year round walking, running, fat biking and beginner cross country skiing. Seasonal advisories and parking guidance are updated regularly, so consulting official maps and notices will help visitors plan trips and avoid congested trailheads.

Camp Greilick and the county park system offer additional winter loops and family friendly routes. Grand Traverse County Parks and the TART Trails network maintain and publish seasonal trail information and grooming updates. For real time grooming and parking updates, consult TART Trails at traversetrails.org and Grand Traverse County Parks event and trail pages at gtpavilions.org.

Public health and equity considerations shape how these trails function for the community. Regular access to safe outdoor spaces supports physical activity and mental wellbeing during long winters, while improvements such as added parking and trail connections can reduce barriers for people who lack easy access to transportation. Stormwater management work at trailheads also protects local water quality and reduces downstream health risks.

Practical steps can make winter outings safer and more equitable. Confirm grooming and open status before you go, dress in layers, carry a map or use official trail maps, and bring microspikes or gaiters for icy connectors. Follow posted signage and yield rules, remember skiers have priority on nordic tracks and bikers should yield to pedestrians where posted, and observe local leash and pack rules to keep trails welcoming for everyone.