About
The 4-mile Boardman Lake Loop Trail wraps around Boardman Lake, just south of downtown Traverse City. The northern portion of the trail offers an urban setting with commercial access. The east side is a heavily wooded segment featuring gentle curves and a mix of pavement, boardwalk, and gravel surfaces. The southern end features two bridges over the Boardman/Ottaway River and an extended boardwalk over the Boardman Lake Cove with bump-out sections for rest and recreation. The western portion features lookout piers, fishing decks, and kayak launches.
The Loop grants easy access to the library, parks, residential communities, and commercial areas, including local businesses like Oryana, the Filling Station, and Right Brain Brewery. It also connects to NMC’s University Center, Logan’s Landing, and the Boardman/Ottaway River Trail.
- Distance: 4 miles
- Surface: Pavement, boardwalk, and gravel
- ADA Accessibility: Fully accessible
Parking
- Northwest Access:Oryana 10th St Trailhead, 8th St, Lake St, 14th St.
- Northeast Access: Parking available off Hannah Road, just south of the Traverse Area District Library.
- South Access: Parking at Medalie Park in the Logan’s Landing area off South Airport Road.
Restrooms
- Seasonal portalets at Hull Park and Medalie Park
- Public restroom inside Oryana Coop
Points of Interest
- Traverse Area District Library
- Art on the TART
- Hull Park
- Medalie Park
- Interpretive Signage
- NMC University Center
Additional Information
The final segment to complete the Loop was finished in July 2022. This highly anticipated trail completion was made possible through meaningful collaboration, years of support, and dedicated efforts from many community members and partners. The Loop is now a reality and serves as the crown jewel and centerpiece of the TART Trails network. This milestone marks a significant achievement in enhancing community connectivity and recreation opportunities. Read the history here.
The Boardman Lake Trail is owned by the City of Traverse City, in partnership with Grand Traverse County and Garfield Township. TART Trails collaborates with these entities to support the development and maintenance of the trail.
