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A Weekend Ride to Metamora
A Weekend Ride to Metamora
July 12-13, 2025
We set off on a microadventure that reminded us exactly why we started J.P. Wanderwheels.
Starting in Rochester, Michigan, we joined five awesome riders—including two first-timers—for a ride that blended trail time, small-town charm, and campfire conversations.
Our route began on the Paint Creek Trail, transitioned into the Polly Ann Trail, and finally hit some beautiful stretches of gravel road as we made our way to Metamora State Park. The weather? Aside from a bit of rain (which we timed perfectly by ducking in for lunch) it was picture perfect—blue skies and plenty of shade along the way to keep things cool.
We stopped for lunch at Homegrown Brewing Company in Oxford, where cold drinks and warm food hit the spot. From there, we pushed on—and along the way Pete had a flat. But no worries, that's why we carry gear. Got it fixed up and and made our way to camp. We wrapped the day with dinner at the White Horse Inn, a Metamora gem with delicious food and old-school charm. Afterward, it was all about the fire, the stars, and the kind of laughs you only get after a full day on the trail.
Sunday morning, we brewed coffee, packed our gear, and hit the road—taking a different route home for a change of scenery. Midway through, we stopped at White Pine Coffee Roasters for a well-earned cold brew and stretch break.
The weekend ride was a reminder that bikepacking doesn’t have to be extreme to be incredible. With the right people, the right pace, and a willingness to go with the flow, a simple overnighter can feel like a full-blown adventure.
Want to ride with us? Come join a trip. Bring what you’ve got—we’ll make it work.
Pure Michigan Bikepacking
Pure Michigan Bikepacking
August 22-24, 2025
Wilderness State Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Michigan and boy, it did not disappoint!
We set off from Petoskey Friday morning, riding the Petoskey-Mackinaw trail which runs parralel to route 31 for much of the way. It's a pleasant mix of paved and crushed limestone trail, lined with trees and the occasional river crossing. Mostly flat, it makes for a nice easy 38 mile ride.
We were joined by a wonderful group of wanderers with a range of bikepacking experience. Which made the vibe friendly and relaxed.
At camp, Pete treated the group to hummus, fresh grapes, nuts, home cooked chicken kabobs prepared over the grill, and orzo salad. A real treat after a day in the saddle.
The Wilderness group campsite is simply spectacular. Large, secluded, and well maintained with the cleanest vault toilets we've ever seen! The best part is the group sites access to Lake Michigan which features the largest, nicest sand dune beach of the entire campground! And we had it pretty much to ourselves!
The trip included bocce ball, a ride through the park, and time walking along the gorgeous beach. A wonderful time was had by all and we will definitely be doing this trip again!
The White Horse Overnighter
The White Horse Overnighter
September 27-28, 2025
We wrapped up the 2025 season with a familiar route, but with a whole new group of friends.
Our group of nice set off from Rochester, and included some experienced riders, but several first time bikepackers. So we were glad to introduce them to the joys of biking and camping in our beautiful state of Michigan.
The ride along the Paint Creek and Polly Ann trails was pleasant and scenic as it always is. We stopped for lunch at Homegrown Brewing in Oxford and enjoyed our meal on the patio, soaking up the fantastic late summer weather.
The gravel roads through horse country provided lovely views, and a few tough hills! But our crew of wanderers persevered and made it to camp at Metamora-Hadley State Park.
After setting up camp we set off for dinner at the historic White Horse Inn where we talked about our day, and got to know each other a bit better. We capped off the night with a great campfire and some special treats - chocolate chip pumpkin bars, and a sip of an adult beverage one of the riders was kind enough to bring and share!
Sunday we awoke to coffee and homemade pancakes cooked campside. As we enjoyed our breakfast, we lingered a bit longer before packing up camp and setting off for home.
Some pleasant stops along the way at White Pine Coffee Roasters for a little refueling, and Sagebrush Cantina in Lake Orion for lunch and to check the Lions game rounded out our journey.
We wrapped up our ride grateful for the new friends we'd met and the time we'd shared together. This trip represented all that we hoped for when we started J.P. Wanderwheels and it was the perfect way to end the season.
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