885 Parsons Road is located on a 0.30-acre wooded corner lot on the east side of Traverse City, Michigan (ZIP code 49696), just one block south of East Bay Park and directly across from the regional TART Trail network.
The property is approximately one block from East Bay Park, a city-maintained waterfront park offering public sandy beach access, shallow swimming waters, picnic spaces, and scenic vistas over East Grand Traverse Bay.
Yes. The paved Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) runs directly across Parsons Road from the property, providing continuous non-motorized cycling and walking connections to downtown Traverse City, Suttons Bay, and regional connector loops.
The property encompasses a 0.30-acre corner lot characterized by mature trees, privacy screening, multiple outdoor entertainment decks, and open yard space that provides a secluded feel close to downtown.
885 Parsons Road features approximately 720 square feet of interior living space configured with 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, an open primary living area, and a practical dedicated mudroom and laundry space.
The home includes a large covered carport providing sheltered vehicle parking and an on-site 20-foot enclosed storage container/shed suitable for storing bicycles, paddleboards, kayaks, garden tools, and seasonal gear.
The property is approximately 3 to 4 miles from central downtown Traverse City, enabling a quick 5-to-10-minute drive or an easy commute along the paved TART Trail corridor to downtown restaurants, shopping, and waterfront venues.
In addition to East Bay Park and the TART Trail, nearby recreational destinations include the Boardman Lake Loop Trail, Traverse City State Park beach, boat launch ramps along East Bay, and several neighborhood nature preserves.
The property is serviced by the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) transit network and is located within a 5-minute drive of Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), offering commercial flight service to major national hubs.
The home provides seamless access to four-season northern Michigan recreation, including bay paddling and swimming in summer, trail cycling and hiking in spring and fall, and proximity to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and regional winter sports.
Discover exceptional northern Michigan coastal living at 885 Parsons Road, an inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home positioned on a lush 0.30-acre wooded corner parcel in the heart of Traverse City. Offering a distinct balance of secluded natural privacy and immediate access to urban conveniences, this residence presents an extraordinary location for individuals seeking year-round outdoor recreation and downtown convenience.
Recreation is built into everyday living here. East Bay Park and public beach access are situated just one block away, inviting you to enjoy sunrise paddles, swimming, and boating across the sparkling waters of East Grand Traverse Bay. Directly across the road, the regional TART Trail (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) network provides miles of paved non-motorized pathway linking east-side amenities, nearby town centers, and downtown corridors without the need for an automobile.
A short distance away, outdoor enthusiasts can also access the picturesque Boardman Lake Loop Trail, waterfront marinas, local public boat launches, and community green spaces. Everyday necessities are equally accessible, with major retail corridors, grocers, specialty markets, and award-winning Traverse City eateries situated only minutes from the driveway.
The home itself is surrounded by mature trees on an expansive corner lot, delivering a peaceful retreat rarely found within city limits. Multiple exterior decks provide prime vantage points for morning coffee, open-air dining, and evening relaxation in a tranquil wooded setting.
Inside, the efficient 720-square-foot floor plan maximizes functional living space with two restful bedrooms, a central full bath, and a practical entry mudroom and laundry area tailored for northern Michigan gear. Vehicle accommodation includes a broad covered carport, while a dedicated 20-foot outdoor storage container/workshop easily accommodates kayaks, bicycles, snowshoes, and seasonal tools.
Whether envisioned as a primary residence, a seasonal waterfront-adjacent haven, or a low-maintenance home base for four-season adventure, 885 Parsons Road delivers lasting value, scenic wooded privacy, and unmatched proximity to Grand Traverse Bay.
One of the best features of 885 Parsons Road is its location. Here, beaches, trails, parks, shopping, dining and downtown Traverse City are all close by, while the property itself enjoys the privacy of a large, wooded lot.
East Bay Park and Beach is just a block away, offering easy access to the beautiful waters of East Grand Traverse Bay for swimming, paddling, picnicking or relaxing along the shoreline. Additional East Bay beaches and waterfront parks are also just minutes away.
For biking and walking, the TART Trail is directly across the road, providing access to Traverse City's extensive trail system. A new trail connection is also being developed nearby, further improving connectivity toward East Middle School and the East Bay Town Center area. It's an increasingly convenient location for getting around by bike or on foot.
Boardman Lake is just down the road, along with the Boardman Lake Loop Trail, one of Traverse City's most popular places for walking, running and biking. Downtown Traverse City is only minutes away, putting restaurants, breweries, entertainment, shopping, festivals and the waterfront within easy reach.
Everyday conveniences are equally accessible. Grocery stores, shopping, restaurants and services along the East Bay and Traverse City corridors are nearby, making this an easy place to live year-round.
What makes the setting especially appealing is that you don't have to give up privacy for convenience. The home sits on a large, mature wooded corner lot, creating a peaceful setting that feels surprisingly private for a property so close to downtown.
Beach a block away. TART Trail across the road. Boardman Lake nearby. Downtown minutes away. It's a location that puts some of the best of the Traverse City lifestyle right outside your door.
This property is located at 885 Parsons Road, Traverse City, MI 49696
Traverse North Realty www.TraverseNorth.com Old Mission Real Estate www.LiveOMP.com 231.668.6303 Ken Weaver is the broker/owner of Traverse North Realty and our branch office, Old Mission Real Estate. With over $100 Million in closed transactions, we have the experience and expertise needed to provide you with exceptional service and results.