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Over the Manistee bridgeDay two's adventure started at the Hoosier Valley staging area, a trailhead just south of Traverse City. Our group headed east, enjoying the smooth trail that snaked through the woods again en route to Fife Lake. However, this time we kept going south toward Manton, and enjoyed some delightful running.
Soon we were at the Manistee River Bridge, one of the most famous snowmobile bridges in Michigan. This purpose-built structure, made for snowmobiles, is an 80-foot arched span that connects riders to the Cadillac and Grayling trail networks and the endless riding beyond.
Our goal, however, was Manton, where we enjoyed lunch at Deeter's Restaurant before making our return trip. North of town, we went exploring off trail, getting a taste of the area's excellent deep snow riding opportunities. We ventured through the woods and made our way down deserted fire lanes, being treated to a grand view of the Manistee River along the way.
Then it was time to make our way back to the trail, and all too soon we were again at our starting point after another delightful day of riding, having logged another 79 miles.
These two days gave me a great appreciation for the snowmobile opportunities available throughout Grand Traverse County. The main routes were scenic, smooth and well groomed, something all trail riders will enjoy thanks to the diligent efforts of the three clubs that comprise the Grand Traverse Area Snowmobile Council - the Traverse Trail Travelers, the Fife Lake Ridgerunners, and the Grand Traverse Snow Spiders. Most members are local riders, but all three clubs welcome snowmobilers from downstate or out of state, opening new opportunities for visitors to make a local connection.
So when the snows come again, point yourself and your snowmobile toward Grand Traverse County, where you'll find that the riding is grand indeed!
For information on Traverse City lodging or for a trail map, contact the Traverse City Convention & Visitor Bureau toll free at 800-TRAVERS. To contact the Grand Traverse Snowmobile Council, call 231-947-9529. For accommodations at the Holiday Inn Express in Acme, call 231-938-2600. For snowmobile rentals, contact Blue Sky Rentals at 231-633-2583.