M-22 Scenic Highway
Why it’s great for the road biker…
This 116 mile road is one of the most famous in the country, and was voted #1 in the USA by USA Today for “Best Scenic Autumn Drive.” This road is frequented by road bikers from across the country. Most making it a 2-3 day journey because there is plenty to do along the way with wineries, coastal communities, scenic overlooks and great food and shopping.
Best segment(s) for a 2 hours or less hike
If you have limited time to get on the roads along M22. A great southern portion is from the Arcadia Overlook to Frankfort. The terrain is tough, but the views are stunning. For those who are looking to venture more north, we recommend getting into the city of Glen Arbor and the Sleeping Bear Dunes area.
Trail Description
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses nearly a third of the scenic drive. Communities like Glen Arbor, and Leland “Fishtown USA,” Northport and Suttons Bay and the Traverse City Area’s West bay cap off this beautiful drive.
M-22 is a hilly winding road that makes for a great ride surrounded in beautiful scenery and nature.
Difficulty: Beginner/Moderate
Trail Amenities/Quick Look:
- Many hotels along the route
- Shopping and Dining Establishments
- Many points of interest – view the map below for more details.
Note: Use caution on the roadways as M22 is a shared road between cyclists and motor vehicles.
Points of Interest Along M22
M22 "Start" at the Little River Casino Resort in Manistee
Onekama, MI
- Artesian Wells along Portage Point Drive
- Historic Portage Point Inn
- Farm Markets and Fruit Stands
Pierport, Mi
- Artesian Well at the end of 13 Mile Road
Arcadia, MI
- Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club (just before entering Arcadia)
- Arcadia Marsh
- Arcadia Overlook (Inspiration Point)
Elberta, MI
- Artisan Shops and Dining
- Access to the Betsie River Pathway
Frankfort, MI
- Artisan Shops and Dining
- Frankfort Beach and Lighthouse
- Frankfort Waterfront area
Point Betsie Lighthouse
Empire, MI
- Artisan Shopping and Dining
- In the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes Climb
- Dune Climb
- Scenic overlooks
- Hiking and Biking Trails
Glen Arbor
- Artisan Shops and Dining (including The home of Cherry Republic)
- Lake Michigan Access
Pyramid Point Lookout/Trail
Leland, MI (Fishtown)
- Artisan Shopping and Dining
- Historic Waterfront district
Northport, MI
Suttons, Bay, MI
- Artisan Shopping and Dining
- Historic Movie Theatre