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Clinch Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 2,984 Google reviews · Running trail in Traverse City, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Clinch Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Beach on West Grand Traverse Bay featuring picnic tables, restrooms & seasonal lifeguards.
What runners say about Clinch Park
“Amazing views, lots of boats, plenty of parking during the week, parking is not free, $1 will get you about 45 minutes, boat launch by the beach, clean & enjoyed the water.”
“Beautiful views of the bay and downtown TC with walking/biking paths, beach access, fishing, kayak rentals, park for kids, and much more!”
“In winter, the pier transforms into a quiet, almost surreal landscape, with ice forming along the railings and waves rolling beneath—perfect for photography and peaceful walks.”
“Beautiful, easily accessible park with plenty of fun activities for children of all ages available.”
This was is a very nice park right on the bay in Traverse City. We were here for the Cherry festival. The festival brought in lots of carnival rides for the children and they had many cherry themed booths. There is a small beach in the park and some boat marinas.
It's been awhile since I've been here at Clinch Park. I had my daughter, Tiponya & my granddaughter Arabella enjoying this walk. We got to fly a kite in the open space. The weather was perfect for everything here. If your ever stop in Traverse City. Come check out their Beach ⛱️🏖️ here. Take a stroll along this Beach.
Clinch Park is one of those places that captures everything people love about northern Michigan in a single stop. Set right along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, the park offers stunning waterfront views in every season.
Beautiful Park, impressive boats, just a quick stop for a nice walk to enjoy the lovely weather.
Trail conditions & character
“Amazing views, lots of boats, plenty of parking during the week, parking is not free, $1 will get you about 45 minutes, boat launch by the beach, clean & enjoyed the water.”
“Amazing views, lots of boats, plenty of parking during the week, parking is not free, $1 will get you about 45 minutes, boat launch by the beach, clean & enjoyed the water.”
“Family-friendly, including pavilions for bathroom as well as a splash pad area for the kids.”
“There is a pedestrian tunnel connecting the park to downtown, and is handicapped accessible, so you don't have to cross traffic.”
“In winter, the pier transforms into a quiet, almost surreal landscape, with ice forming along the railings and waves rolling beneath—perfect for photography and peaceful walks.”
Plan your run at Clinch Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitetraversecitymi.gov
- Phone+1 231-922-4904
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Traverse City
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Hull Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 282 reviews
A relaxing grassy park for picnics, walking and fishing, along with bike paths.
Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
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Hiking area with an array of trails, including kid-friendly options, and scenic views.
Boardman Lake Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 379 reviews
Paved, shaded lakeside path for biking and strolling, with bridges and benches.