

Trip # 110
Mountain Biking Grand Island
This is an 8 hour adventure
Located in Lake Superior, about one half mile from the mainland community
of Munising, Michigan.
And "grand" it is. Protecting Munising Bay, its the largest island
on Lake Superior's south shore, and many feel, the most beautiful. A perfect
spot for camping, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, skiing and snowmobiling.
A visit to Grand Island means a visit to a place rich in wild beauty, natural
history and heritage. If you're interested in a unique day trip, a scenic
mountain bike ride, or a week of camping at one of the nation's most spectacular
sites, don't miss Grand Island!
Grand Island stretches north for 8 miles, from its southpoint at Williams
Landing in Munising Bay to the north end at North Point. Only three miles
across at its widest point, Grand lsland offers 35 miles of shoreline, encompassing
over 13,500 acres of dense woodland, including several lakes. Rapid-flowing
streams cut through the rugged hills, and massive 300 foot wave-cut sandstone
cliffs. Beaches of fine sand, winter ice caves and historic buildings and
artifacts dating back as far as 2,000 BC are just a few of its highlights.
Archeological investigations indicate that Grand Island has been inhabited
for at least 3,300 years. In the 1660's, when the explorer priests arrived
from France, the Ojibwa culture on Grand Island was already thriving.
Old woods, roads and trails run the perimeter of Grand Island offering many
miles of hiking and biking to the most spectacular views one will find anywhere
in the Upper Midwest. There are several rustic campsites on the island, and
white sand beaches that will thrill the visitor.
Hiking and mountain biking trails provide wonderful opportunities for day-trips
and give access via unsurfaced trails to some of the Island's most breathtaking
scenery.
If you are traveling to and from the Island on a passenger ferry, it is important
to keep the ferry schedule in mind as you plan your time on the Island. Consider
your level of fitness and your pace as you make route choices. For instance,
a family planning a full day of biking on the Island can take a leisurely
pace and travel up the southwest shore road, cut across the Island to Trout
Bay Overlook, travel down to Trout Bay West Day Use Area for a picnic meal
and leisurely beach walk, and finish the day with biking down along Murray
Bay to Williams Landing. On the other hand, reasonably fit individuals can
mountain bike the 23-mile perimeter trail around the main island in a full
day, with brief stops and some exploration. Whether hiking or bicycling, the
key is to know your pace and keep track of time.
NOTE: The bridge across North Light Creek at the far north end of the island
is washing out and is not safe to cross.
Currently, a hiking-only trail has been designated in the northeast part of
the island, and the Thumb's travel ways are reserved for hiking-only use.
In addition, there are many hiking/biking opportunities along the island's
perimeter as well as its interior, providing a relatively secluded setting
for hikers seeking a measure of solitude. Most of the hiking and mountain
biking opportunities, though not officially designated, lie on old road beds,
cross a variety of terrain and provide shoreline views. Bicycling off roads
and trails is not allowed. Please respect private property signs.
Value Cost: $200 for 2 people for guide.
Persons 3-6 are $50. Bike Rental $30 per day
