Are you ready to try a unique and thrilling way to explore the winter landscape of the Wolverine State? Fat Tire biking in Michigan is an extraordinary winter sport you don’t want to miss. Whether you enjoy a slow and steady pedal or prefer more extremes, there is a Fat Tire bike journey waiting for you!
For more incredible ways to explore Michigan and how you can prepare for your upcoming visit, be sure to get our FREE Destination Guide by clicking below.
Keep reading to crank your way through everything you need to know about the fat tire bike season, the best trails throughout the state, and what to expect. Be ready to snow bike during your next getaway.
Fat Tire Bike Season in Michigan
Cruise through scenic snow-covered beauty during the winter months. Fat Tire biking season is from December through March. Riders are looking for designated trails with snow cover and 30° F or lower temperatures.
Best Fat Tire Bike Trails in Michigan
Eastern Michigan
Western Michigan
- Fort Custer Recreation Area
- Mitchell State Park
- Silver Lake State Park (sand dunes)
- Crystal Mountain (rentals available)
Northern Michigan
- Avalanche Mountain Preserve
- Boyne Mountain (bike rentals available, must be 14 or older)
- Little Traverse Conservancy
- TART Trails
- Mt. McSauba Recreation Area
Upper Peninsula
- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
- Soo Strong Trail
- St. Ignace to Trout Lake Trail
- Noquemanon Trail Network
What to Expect
Bring Your Own or Rent a Bike
If you don’t have a Fat Tire bike or a bike that can be equipped with a 3.7 inches or wider tire, there are plenty of rental options throughout the state. To find a rental shop for your fat tire biking in Michigan adventure, do a simple Google search for your area. Be sure to book your rental in advance to ensure availability.
Additional Equipment and Accessories
- Winter Helmet
- Face & Eye Protection
- Gaiters
- Shoes
- Pedals
- Thermal & Moisture-Wicking Socks
- Base Layer
- Insulating Layer
- Outer Layer
- Gloves & Pogies
- Fender
- Lights
Fat Tire Biking Etiquette
- Avoid groomed cross-country ski tracks.
- Only use trails when it is 30° F degrees or colder. This helps to avoid damaging the base trail.
- Fat tires should be at least 3.7 inches wide.
- Inflate tires to no more than 4 psi.
- Check to see whether the trail is one-way or two-way.
- Stay to the right when approaching traffic on two-way trails.
For kid-friendly winter activities in Michigan, click here.
Find the Best Place to Stay
No matter where your Fat Tire biking adventure takes you, we have an ideal vacation rental for you. Whether you are traveling with a group of friends or your family, our rentals are sure to please. Search our rentals by area and find the one that is right for your travel needs today! From lakefront cabins to city-center retreats, Freshwater Vacation Rentals is looking forward to making your winter escape a reality.