GRAWN BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Pedaling an Unlikely Path: The M-37 Expedition on Custom Rail Bikes
A one‑hour, three‑mile round trip aboard Wheels on Rails’ custom rail bikes through the out‑of‑service rails and woods around Traverse City — this guide explains what to expect, who it fits, and practical prep.
Pedaling an Unlikely Path: The M-37 Expedition on Custom Rail Bikes.
The M‑37 Expedition converts unused track into a singular small‑group outing: riders pedal custom rail bikes along out‑of‑service rails that cut through the woods of southern Traverse City. Operated by Wheels on Rails, the short, approximately one‑hour circuit is billed as a family‑friendly way to experience the area’s wooded corridors while learning history and fun facts along the route.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Woods on Old Rails
The three‑mile round trip follows out‑of‑service rail lines through the wooded southern reaches of Traverse City, offering a continuous, flat—with a returning incline—pedal through quiet forested stretches.
Custom Rail Bikes
Riders travel on purpose‑built rail bikes supplied by Wheels on Rails — a distinctive pedaling experience that retools existing rails for recreational use.
Designed for Individuals, Couples and Families
The operator positions the expedition as accessible to individuals, couples and families, with interpretive remarks and a relaxed pace that suits mixed groups while noting some age‑and‑size limitations for very small children.
What the day feels like
How the Ride Unfolds
Expect a compact loop: arrive early to check in, sign a waiver and receive a brief safety review, then set out along out‑of‑service rails that thread through southern Traverse City’s woods. The outing lasts about an hour and includes guided history and fun facts; the outward leg is gentle, while the return includes a slight incline that requires a bit more pedaling effort.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
If you have an infant, bring a front child carrier (for example, a Baby Bjorn) so the child can be secured on a parent's chest during the ride.
Infants must be secured in a front child carrier on a parent or guardian’s chest; the operator specifies this as the appropriate arrangement for the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the M‑37 Expedition?
The tour runs about one hour from start to finish.
How far do we travel?
The official route is a three‑mile round trip along out‑of‑service rail lines.
When should I arrive before my tour?
Plan to arrive 20–30 minutes ahead of your scheduled tour time to check in and complete required paperwork and briefings.
Can I bring an infant or very small child?
Infants must be secured in a front child carrier on a parent or guardian’s chest; smaller children who cannot reach the pedals may not be able to participate normally.
Do I need to book in advance?
Bookings are accepted online or by phone; on‑site availability is scarce, so advance reservations are recommended.
Is the ride strenuous?
The outward leg is gentle, but the return includes a slight incline that requires extra pedaling effort.
What if I have a large group?
If you're booking for a large group, call Wheels on Rails to discuss pricing and options.