The 4-mile Boardman Lake Trail is a heavily wooded trail that wraps along the eastern and northern boundaries of Boardman Lake. It’s a great place to spend an hour or the day with access to the library, sailing center, and lots of places to rest and relax while you watch the world around you.

The vision for this trail is a pathway that circles Boardman Lake, granting easy access to the library, parks, residential developments, and commercial areas including local businesses like Oryana, the Filling Station, and Right Brain Brewery. The future loop around the lake will provide a connection to Northwestern Michigan University Center, Logan’s Landing, and businesses along Cass Road and ultimately head south of South Airport Road connecting to the Boardman River Trail.

The Boardman Lake Trail is owned by the City of Traverse City, in partnership with Grand Traverse County and Garfield Township. Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trails works with the City, County, and Township to support the development and maintenance of the trail.

Boardman Lake is less than a mile from Grand Traverse Bay and it is a favorite of local birders. A variety of waterfowl are present on the lake whenever it is not iced over. During periods of migration, there have been some unusual sightings of waterfowl, gulls, and shorebirds. Medalie Park at Logan’s Landing (off Airport Road, east of Cass Road) is a good viewing spot, especially if you have a scope. Also, try the Northwestern Michigan College University Center parking lot off Cass Road and around the lake behind the library at Hull Park.