The Bay de Noc-Grand Island Trail parallels the Whitefish River, staying from 1/2 to 2 miles east of the river. The trail follows the approximate location of an ancient Chippewa Indian portage route used to carry canoes and supplies between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Following the river bluff for a considerable distance, it offers the hiker many extended views to the west across the Whitefish River valley.

The southern 1/4 of the trail winds along through jack pine, red pine, and aspen timber, interspersed with grassy openings. The terrain is fairly level, broken only by an occasional stream crossing. As the trail stretches northward through the maple, paper birch and beech forest, the hiker encounters the typical glacial terrain characterized by short rounded hills scattered in random fashion. These hilly stretches are occasionally separated by one to five mile stretches of flat land supporting pine and aspen timber.

Other associated recreation facilities include numerous primitive access roads leading from County Road 509 to the trail. There are also three large assembly areas for horses and hikers which consist of parking lot, tethering area, water well and vault toilets. One such area is located at the south trail head, one at the Alger-Delta County line and one along the north side of Highway 94. These areas are also suitable for camping. The middle assembly area is better suited for camping than the others because of its large space and quiet location off of County Road 509. While water is available at the parking areas, it is suggested that you carry a drinking water supply with you. In order to be safe, all drinking water should be boiled or disinfected with Halazone.

This trail follows an old Chippewa portage route. Great views can be seen across the Whitefish River valley.