Bellaire, Michigan: Kayaking, Hiking & a Petoskey Day Trip

We wanted a quick “Up North” escape that mixed water, woods, and small-town charm — and Bellaire delivered. Between kayaking quiet rivers, biking scenic lake trails, hiking shaded forest paths, and ending evenings with good food and relaxed outdoor spaces, this trip reminded us how much you can fit into a long weekend without ever feeling rushed.

Trip Snapshot

• When: Late spring / summer

• Length: 3–4 nights

• Vibe: Outdoorsy, relaxed, a balance of adventure and downtime

• Good for: Couples, friends, or families who enjoy kayaking, hiking, biking, and lake views

• Highlights: Grass River kayaking, Glacial Hills hike, Torch Lake shoreline, Petoskey bike ride, downtown Bellaire restaurants

• Best Pace: Active days with slow, cozy evenings

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Spillway Lodges, a newer lodging option just steps from downtown Bellaire. The modern finishes and quiet setting made it easy to unwind after long outdoor days. Our unit had a private deck, a well-stocked kitchen, and access to hot tubs, a sauna, and fire pits — all of which we used.

The walkability to town was a bonus. We could head to dinner, grab ice cream, or wander around without getting back in the car.

Tip: Summer weekends fill quickly. Book early if you want a deck unit.

Our cozy second-floor unit at Spillaway Lodges, complete with a private deck just steps from downtown Bellaire.

Each unit at Spillaway Lodges has a full kitchen — perfect for making breakfast before heading out for the day.

What We Did

A mix of water, woods, and small-town exploring made each day feel full but not overplanned. Here’s how we spent our time.

Kayaking the Grass River

Grass River Nature Area is quiet, easy to access, and great for a relaxed paddle. The boardwalk launch made getting in the water simple, and the calm river felt peaceful with lily pads and quiet shoreline. You can bring your own kayak or rent on site. It’s ideal for a slow glide and an easy morning outdoors.

Sometimes the best part of traveling is slowing down together on the water.

Hiking at Glacial Hills Natural Area

We did the 4-mile loop trail with friends. The terrain was rolling rather than steep, making it a good workout without being strenuous. The woods were calm, and we saw deer multiple times. It’s the kind of trail that leaves you refreshed rather than worn out.

Hiking the shaded trails at Glacial Hills with friends — quiet woods, rolling hills, and easy conversation.

Torch Lake Views + Lakeside Lunch

We drove out for shoreline views and lunch at Dockside. The water is clear and bright — even from the restaurant deck. It’s a nice way to break up the day and soak in some lake time without needing a full beach day.

Evening Drinks at Mammoth Distilling

Mammoth has a relaxed atmosphere and makes for an easy stop before dinner or after. It’s walkable from Spillway and great for a quiet cocktail or a quick tasting flight.

Cocktails and a tasting flight at Mammoth Distilling — the perfect way to wrap up the day.

Bike Ride: Little Traverse Wheelway (Petoskey → Harbor Springs)

On one of the full days, we drove to Petoskey to bike the Little Traverse Wheelway. We started at Bayfront Park and rode the smooth, scenic trail into Harbor Springs. It’s about 11 miles one way, with lake views and small stretches through town.

A stop at Tom’s Mom’s Cookies is a must.
We wrapped the ride with a stop at Petoskey Brewing before heading back to Bellaire..

Scenic ride along the Little Traverse Wheelway to Harbor Springs

A sweet stop at Tom’s Mom’s Cookies in Harbor Springs

Evenings by the fire pit at Spillaway Lodges — the perfect way to close out our stay in Bellaire

Bonus Stop: Elk Rapids Sculpture Walk

On the way home, the sculpture walk in Elk Rapids is an easy detour. It’s a lakeside path with quirky art pieces and quiet views — a quick stop that’s worth a few extra minutes before heading south.

Elk Rapids’ Walk of Art Sculpture Park, tucked along the shoreline

One of the many unique sculptures along the wooded trails

Favorites & Highlights

• Best adventure: Kayaking the Grass River

• Favorite hike: Glacial Hills loop — quiet and perfect for a group

• Best ride: Little Traverse Wheelway — smooth trail + good stops

• Go-to meal: Short’s Brewing — reliable food and great beer

• Coziest moment: Morning coffee on the deck at Spillway Lodge

Tips / What to Know Before You Go

• Book lodging early — Bellaire stays busy in summer.

• The Grass River launch is beginner-friendly and calm.

• For biking, plan at least 2–3 hours if riding to Harbor Springs.

• Short’s Brewing and Mammoth Distilling get busy; consider going before peak dinner times.

• Pack layers — evenings cool down fast.

• If visiting Elk Rapids, water shoes help with rocky shoreline spots.

What We’d Do Differently Next Time

We’d add one more full day so we could spend more time along Torch Lake’s shoreline and possibly paddle there if the weather allowed.

Bellaire gave us the perfect mix of active days and peaceful evenings — the kind of weekend that feels both fun and restorative. If you’re craving fresh air, water views, good food, and a little northern Michigan charm, this is a trip that fits easily into a long weekend and leaves you wanting one more day.