Are the giant mounds of ice turning to slush?  If so, it’s time to take the motorcycle out of the garage, get it spring ready (checking fuel systems, tires and battery) and think about where to take a great ride.  Whether you drive a car or motorcycle, it’s time to venture outside and see some beautiful vistas on the way.

Plan a local drive that offers scenery, fun stops and socializing with friends or make bigger plans for a road trip.  

One of the great scenic byways, perfect for a motorcycle ride is the Tunnel of Trees Road, which is a section of M-119.  Start your journey at Harbor Springs (north of Petoskey) and take Route 119 north all along the eastern shoreline of Lake Michigan, until you get to Cross Village.

The Tunnel of Trees is gorgeous in spring with the appearance of colorful trillium on the forest floor.  As you ride along, a lovely forest will surround you, making a canopy of trees, while you can still view Lake Michigan from the high bluff on the other side of the road. There are some great twists and curves (at Devil’s Elbow and Horseshoe Bend).

There are plenty of places to stop:  country stores, a glass blowing workshop, artisanal bakeries and evidence of old Native American housing and even forts.

Enjoy a sunset and a relaxing meal at Cross Village and head back south!

Photo Source:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2009-0619-UP022-TunnelofTrees.jpg