Harbor Springs lies in a sheltered bay on the northern shore of Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan. A 22-mile scenic route follows the lakeshore, while a paved trail connects Charlevoix and Harbor Springs. There are also launch points for paddling, historic architecture and recurring events at different times of year. These offerings focus on different things: the coastal route, activity on the trail, water activities or culture provide specific points to consider when planning a stay.

Routes Between the Town and the Lakeshore

The Tunnel of Trees begins in the historic center of Harbor Springs and stretches for 22 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan. Its starting point in the historic center and its lakeside course give this scenic route a clear character. If you would like to include a scenic route in your travel plans, it offers a well-defined option for your stay.

The Little Traverse Wheelway runs for 26 mostly separated, paved miles from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs. It is open to cyclists, pedestrians and skiers. Compared with the 22-mile Tunnel of Trees, both the distance and the features described are different: the Wheelway is characterized by its paved surface, mostly separated route and permitted uses, while the Tunnel of Trees follows the shore of Lake Michigan. This lets you consider two different types of route without treating their respective features as the same.

Paddling on the Water

You can launch paddleboards, kayaks and canoes at Zoll Beach. Conditions and rules can vary by season, so check them before setting out. Paddlesport Rentals offers paddleboard rentals, making it possible to explore Harbor Springs from the water. These are two different points to consider when planning: Zoll Beach is the named location for launching these types of paddlecraft, while Paddlesport Rentals refers to paddleboard rentals. This helps you distinguish whether you are looking for a launch point or a rental.

Architecture and Events

The Shay Hexagon House is located in the historic center of Harbor Springs. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and clad inside and out with embossed steel panels. Its listing and unusual design make the building a specific point of interest for those interested in culture and architecture. This named historic building adds a different perspective on the town to the routes and water activities.

Shay Days is a recurring, family-friendly two-day event in Harbor Springs. It is scheduled for the last Friday and Saturday in July; the exact program may change. If you are planning a trip for late July, check the specific event dates and program details in advance.

The Harbor Springs Farmers Market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through October; its seasonal schedule may change. Another point in the year to note is the first weekend in February: more than 30 ice sculptures are displayed downtown, along with live ice carving. These dates can also change from year to year, so it is worth checking the current dates before planning a trip around them. The market, Shay Days and the ice sculptures therefore offer different timeframes to help you plan: a seasonal market on two weekdays, a two-day event in late July and a weekend in February.

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