Northern Michigan Favorite Things To Do In & Around Benzie County
It is no secret that we love living in Benzie County. Maybe it’s the way a quick outing turns into an all-day adventure, or how some of the most memorable experiences are the simplest ones. From quiet trails to sunset traditions, this is the kind of place where you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve truly gotten away.
We’ve put together for you a few ideas to help you make the most of life in Northern Michigan. We each added our favorites for your Ultimate Summer Bucket List, Benzie County style!
Hiking
- Explore any of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy’s trails or nature preserves. There are many from which to choose. These areas offer a quieter, more tucked-away experience and are just perfect for when you want to slow down and take it all in. There’s quite a few to choose from – click here to see all of the Conservancy’s available areas in Benzie County and nearby.
- Hike Old Baldy Dune for sweeping views of Lake Michigan. It’s a short climb with a big payoff. There is a universally accessible trail for the shorter hike (about one mile roundtrip) to the first Lake Michigan overlook. You can opt to keep going a mile further on the trail’s more challenging section trail for more views of Lake Michigan - and a decent workout. Park at the Baldy Dune trailhead along M-22, about 8 miles south of Elberta. Here’s a great description of what to expect.
- Enjoy the Empire Bluff Trail, a short (1.5 miles roundtrip) but incredibly scenic trail with one of the best overlooks in the region. Leashed pets are allowed on this trail. More information.
Biking
- Bike from Beulah to Frankfort on the Betsie Valley Trail. Once in Frankfort, stop at food trucks (we find them usually at 1048 Main Street) and treat yourself to ice cream before heading back.
- Mountain Bike the Betsie River Pathway. Ride the scenic trails along the Betsie River on the Betsie River Pathway, a 10-mile trail that winds along the Betsie River not far from Crystal Mountain. The two loops offer experiences for both beginner and experienced riders. More information.
- Bike the TART Trail in Traverse City. Enjoy a smooth, scenic ride along one of the TART Trails, perfect for a casual cruise or a longer ride. The TART Trails network currently consists of several multi-use trails in Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties as well as a cross-town bike route, with bike rentals available at a number of bike shops in Traverse City.
On or In the Water
- Scuba dive in Crystal Lake with the certified instruction of Beulah Outdoors. It’s a unique way to experience one of the area’s most iconic lakes from a completely different perspective! (Be sure to check out their store in downtown Beulah, too!)
- Paddle or Tube the Platte or Betsie Rivers. Spend a relaxing day floating or paddling along the Platte River or the Betsie River, which are both known for their gentle currents and scenic surroundings. Need to rent? Betsie River Canoes & Campground as well as Betsie Riverside Resort can help you out on the Betsie River, while the Platte River is serviced by Riverside Canoes (including tube rentals) and Tipsy Canoe Rental & Brew.
- Boat or float on Crystal Lake. Get out on the water of Crystal Lake for a day of boating, cruising, or paddle boarding on one of the clearest lakes in the region. Need to rent your craft? Crystal Lake Marina offers both ski boats and pontoon boats, while Crystal Lake Adventure Sports offers, pontoon boats, kayaks stand-up paddle boards, and lilypads to rent.
- Boat the Chain of Lakes from Elk Rapids. Launch in Elk Rapids and spend the day exploring the stunning interconnected waterways known as the Chain of Lakes, including the crystal clear waters of Torch Lake. Elk Rapids Marina offers pontoon, tritoon, jet ski, and wake surf boat rentals. They also offer wakesurf lessons and will captain a sunset cruise on Elk Lake for you.
On the Milder Side
- Pack a picnic dinner for the beach, stay for sunset. It’s one of the simplest and most memorable ways to spend an evening. Need help with your picnic needs? East Shore Market in Beulah and Goody’s and East Shore 2GO in Frankfort are all happy to help.
- Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a movie at the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre. It’s a classic Northern Michigan experience that never goes out of style. No need to eat dinner prior – they have a full service concession building with everything from popcorn (with real melted butter) to pizza, chili cheese fries, hot dogs, and hot pretzels.
- Walk the shoreline of Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey Stones. It’s a relaxing, uniquely Michigan tradition that turns every beach walk into a bit of a treasure hunt. The Point Betsie Lighthouse beach is noted as a particularly good place to find Petoskey Stones.
- Visit the Point Betsie Lighthouse. Take a step back in Lake Michigan nautical history and explore the iconic shoreline of the Point Betsie Lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse are available, and you can even stay overnight in the Keeper’s Quarters (reservations required).
- Bonfire on Lake Michigan. End the day with a sunset and bonfire on Lake Michigan – a classic Northern Michigan experience. What to know: Bonfires are only permitted on Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore beaches – not on city parks – and only between the water’s edge and first dune. Fires must be put out with water (never buried) so that coals are not only wet but can be seen by beachgoers (burying them in sand can trap embers and keep them hot through the night), so be sure to bring a bucket. NOTE: Park Passes are required for vehicles. Also, be sure to check with the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore park office for any fire restrictions prior to making plans.
- Walk the Frankfort Pier. Take a stroll along the Frankfort Pier out to the Frankfort Lighthouse for a peaceful walk that never gets old.
The beauty of life in Benzie County isn’t just the scenery, it’s how easy it is to experience it. These aren’t once-a-year adventures. They’re the kinds of moments you can enjoy on a spontaneous afternoon or a quiet evening close to home, summer after summer.
That’s what makes this area so special. The best moments aren’t far away – they’re right here. Enjoy!
