The Tawas Bay Pedestrian and Bike Path follows both US 23 and the shore of Tawas Bay in northern Michigan. The scenic route, which offers stunning water views at several points along the way, connects the municipalities of Alabaster Township, Tawas City, East Tawas and Baldwin Township.
While much of the southwestern portion consists of a peaceful off-road trail through a surrounding arboretum, the trail becomes increasingly busy as it heads north into Tawas City and East Tawas. Look out for locals and tourists using the trail to access homes, restaurants, shops, parks and the communities’ various other amenities.
Past East Tawas, the trail leaves US 23 to use the wide paved shoulder and sidewalk along Tawas Beach Road, ultimately reaching the northern entrance to Tawas Point State Park. The gorgeous park, located on a peninsula between Tawas Bay and Lake Huron, features a campground, swimming area, paved trail and working lighthouse.
Parking for the Tawas Bay Pedestrian and Bike Path is available in Tawas City at both Gateway Park and City Park along US 23. In East Tawas, park at Harbor Park or City Park. At the southeastern end of the trail, park at Tawas Point State Park on Tawas Beach Road.
My wife and myself enjoyed this trail so much. Very smooth and well maintained trail.
I didn’t see this trail listed. It connects to the Tawas Trail. It is 6.5 miles long. It parallels US 23 , but does go up and around. There is a bridge and and off path which lead to the water! I think it needs to be added.
Part of this trail runs along US 23, which is boring, but the trail goes closer to the water by Alabaster (search the history of the gypsum mine). We parked in Tawas, rode north to the lighthouse, came back and had lunch, then drove to Alabaster Road and rode the trail there.
This is a great easy trail, however it doesn't lie when they tell you pedestrian traffic can get in the way. If you're comfortable once it goes to a three or four-lane highway, riding on the road is smooth and you miss the walkers. Beautiful start and end points.
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