84 Miles
The shortest DALMAC route, and the only route that keeps you on a crushed limestone dedicated bicycle trail, this route begins up in Waters (just north of Grayling) and takes the North Central State Trail up to Mackinaw City, with an overnight in Cheboygan. It is approximately 20 minutes by car from Grayling to the trailhead in Waters. DALMAC will assist with moving you and your bicycle to the trailhead in Waters. You can also ride your bike from Grayling to Waters on the paved road route.
Saturday: Waters to Cheboygan – 57 Miles
Trail riders will begin their off-road adventure in Waters on Saturday morning following the North Central State Trail. This historic rail-trail has grades that are relatively flat for an easy ride to Cheboygan High School. Trail surfaces are well-maintained crushed stone, so wider tires will be a must for enjoying the ride! The route carries the riders North along the shores of Otsego Lake, through Gaylord and into the northern Michigan forests to end in Cheboygan Michigan on Lake Huron.
Sunday: to Mackinaw City High School – 26 Miles
Sunday morning riders will hop back on the North Central State Trail again for the 26 miles to Mackinaw City. It’s a short day! Sleep in and enjoy visiting Cheboygan and Lake Huron.
Starting Location: Kirtland Community College – Grayling
On-site check-in for the 2-Day Trail ride will take place at Kirtland Community College on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 5-7 pm, and Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 7-9 am. Riders and other participants must be present at check-in to receive wrist bands, rider packets, and sign a liability waiver if they have not already done so. Registered riders must present picture ID to check in. The wristband serves as the participant’s access to meals, showers and other facilities. Riders will pick up any DALMAC Gear they purchased at rider check-in.
Riders can camp for free at Kirtland Community College the night of September 4, 2026 and will be able have dinner at the college that night. Parking will be available at Kirtland Community College. Trail riders will begin their ride on the North Central Trail in Waters, MI. Riders on the 2-Day Trail Route can opt to be shuttled to the Trailhead in Waters, on the morning of September 5, 2026. Riders may also self-transport to Waters where parking will be available.