A mixed conifer-deciduous forest and cedar swamp. Located between Second and Fourth streets, these adjacent preserves are just a few blocks west of downtown Harbor Springs.
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Nathan “Barry” Driggers Nature Preserve
Once a farm, the property includes a pine plantation, open fields, and a high, forested ridge.
Nature Center to the YMCA
Located next to the Boardman River Nature Center within the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve, this trip is perfect for anyone looking for an easy, but beautiful one hour paddle, and/ or a full day of outdoor recreation experiences. Park at the Boardman River Nature Center and carry your canoe/kayak 100 yards across the Sabin Dam. Once over the Dam walk 100 feet north to the state of the art canoe/kayak launch. Stop at the Nature Center for maps and nature activities.
Learn more about this property HERE.
North Bar
The beach at North Bar Lake is one of the most popular beaches in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Park at the end of Bar Lake Road and walk to the beach. North Bar Lake is always warmer than Lake Michigan, and with a sandy beach it is a favorite place for the kids to play. The outlet of North Bar Lake meets Lake Michigan here, kids love to play in the shallow stream and warm waters. Building sand castles is a favorite pastime.
Learn more about this property HERE.
North Central Michigan College’s Natural Area
North Central Michigan College (NCMC) is just a few minutes from downtown Petoskey. Located on the campus is the 195-acre NCMC Natural Area. A trailhead can be found behind the Student Community Resource Center and is the gateway to more than five miles of trails. Three loops of trails meander past a variety of unique habitats including a pond, a grassy meadow, a pine and maple stand as well as the Bear River. The trails are flat and are easy for leisurely strollers as well as fast-paced walkers. In the winter, the trails provide opportunities for cross country skiing and snow shoeing. Bird watchers love the natural area as surveys conducted by local ornithologists and NCMC biology classes have identified as many as 34 different bird species. Bring along binoculars and bird books.
North Country Trail – Skyline Trail
From atop this hill are sweeping views of Little Traverse Bay and the Bear River Valley. This property lies adjacent to more than 865 acres of city of Petoskey land, as well as additional land owned by the county and the state, plus land connected through privately-granted easements. At an elevation of more than 1200 feet, the views are dramatic.
Oden Island Nature Preserve
This preserve is composed of large old-growth trees and fragile wetlands.
Offield Family Nature Preserve
Just a few miles from downtown Harbor Springs, this preserve has become a favorite community destination for hiking, dog walking, or nature classes. A mix of open meadows and hilly woods with plenty of hills are found within its boundaries.
Old Baldy Trails
This beautiful trail tells a unique land use and land protection story as it moves through stately hardwood forests, a subdivision that was never built, over dunes, and out to unparalleled vistas of Lake Michigan. Snowshoe this trail for a genuine northern Michigan experience. Please take note that the minimal distance to the scenic vista is one mile (requiring an additional one mile return trip). Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Old Baldy Trails
This trail flows through beautiful forests on rolling hills, protected orchards and fields. Here you will experience a vigilantly maintained trail that was professionally designed and built to International Mountain Biking Association Standards by Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy staff and volunteers. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements. Trails are not groomed.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Old Indian Trail
Take an easy walk through the woods to the dunes near Lake Michigan. Walking .25 miles further through the dunes gets you to the lake. If you’re up for a greater challenge, return on the upper loop.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Old Indian Trail
Ski through the woods to the dunes near Lake Michigan. Take the Green Arrow loop for an easy ski. If you crave a greater challenge, take the Black Arrow loop. You might want to take off your skis when you get to the dunes and walk down to the beach. Be careful of ice on the beach.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Old Indian Trail
Snowshoe through the woods to the dunes near Lake Michigan. For an easier trip take the Green Arrow loop. If your up for more of a challenge, set you course along the Black Arrow loop. You might want to take off your snowshoes when you get to the dunes and walk down to the beach. Be careful of ice on the beach.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Omena Beach
The Omena Beach facility, with approximately 100 feet of waterfront, is located on Omena Point Road in the Village of Omena. It provides public access to Omena Bay for swimming and sunbathing, picnic tables, and playground equipment. There is an unpaved parking lot across Omena Point Road
Open Space
The highlight of the Traverse City park system is the Open Space next to the Marina on Grand Traverse Bay. This spanse of green hosts everything from main stage National Cherry Festival events to afternoon picnics and frisbee games.
Otter Creek
Spend a couple of hours exploring the trails around Otter Creek and Otter Lake. You will also find a Marle Spring just off the trail. There are two trailheads for this loop. This one is at the end of Esch Road near the bridge over Otter Creek. The other one is at the end of Trails End Road by Bass Lake.
Otter Creek Loop
Spend a couple of hours exploring the trails around Otter Creek and Otter Lake. You will also find a Marle Spring just off the trail. There are two trailheads for this loop. This one is at the end of Esch Road near the bridge over Otter Creek. The other one is at the end of Trails End Road by Bass Lake.
Otter Creek Loop
Spend an hour or all day exploring the trails around Otter Creek and Otter Lake. You will also find a Marle Spring just off the trail. There are two trailheads for this loop. This one is at the end of Esch Road near the bridge over Otter Creek. The other one is at the end of Trails End Road by Bass Lake.
Otter Creek
Park at the Otter Creek Trailhead parking lot. A vault toilet is available at the Esch Road Beach about 100 yards away. During late May Otter Creek is the best place in the park to find migrating warblers. You may also find Bald Eagles. In the summer look in the woods along the road for Scarlet Tanagers and Baltimore Orioles. Indigo Buntings nest near the end of Esch Road. Sandhill cranes, herons, rails, and waterfowl frequent the creek and wetlands.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Paddle the Platte River
Enjoy a gentle float on this wide, but shallow river from M-22 to the Lake Township park at the end of Lake Michigan Road just before the river empties into Lake Michigan. If you bring your own boat, put-in at the Platte River Picnic area on Lake Michigan Road.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Pedal the Planets
Beginning at “the Sun” directly behind the Traverse Area District Library, cyclists of all ages can travel to the far reaches of the solar system and back. The six-mile long interactive model of the solar system includes hand-crafted sculptures of the planets designed by local physics instructor Dave Kirby. Look for the informational plaques with details about each planet.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Pedal the Planets
Beginning at “the Sun” directly behind the Traverse Area District Library, cyclists of all ages can travel to the far reaches of the solar system and back. The six-mile long interactive model of the solar system includes hand-crafted sculptures of the planets designed by local physics instructor Dave Kirby. Look for the informational plaques with details about each planet.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Pelizzari Natural Area
Over 3 miles of trail meander through wide open fields of former orchards, quiet upland forests, and cool lowlands with giant hemlocks. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Pelizzari Natural Area
Over 3 miles of trail meander through wide open fields of former orchards, quiet upland forests, and cool lowlands with giant hemlocks. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Peterson Park
Peterson Park is located at 10001 E. Peterson Park Rd. It provides public access to approximately 1000 feet of beach on Lake Michigan and offers a viewing platform, stairway to the beach, a pavilion, playground equipment, picnic tables, grills, a volleyball area, and a paved parking lot.
Peterson Road
Swimming at Peterson Road Beach is ideal. Depending upon the time of year you may have the whole beach to yourself. From M-22, turn west onto Peterson Road at Deadstream Road and follow the dirt road to the parking lot near the beach.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park, located on the north end of Little Traverse Bay, is situated on 303 scenic acres and offers a beautiful sandy beach. The park includes two trail systems Old Baldy and Portage Trail.
Pierce Stocking Drive
You’ve driven the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in the summer, but snowshoeing it in the winter is a whole different experience. The vistas from the Dune Overlook and Lake Michigan Overlook are spectacular and it’s all downhill from the Lake Michigan Overlook!
Learn more about this property HERE.
Pierce Stocking Drive
You’ve driven the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in the summer, but skiing it in the winter is a whole different experience. The vistas from the Dune Overlook and Lake Michigan Overlook are spectacular and it’s all downhill from the Lake Michigan Overlook!
Learn more about this property HERE.
Platte Plains
Spend all day exploring the trails, streams, and lakes of the Platte Plains area. Three hiking loops ranging from 3.5 miles to 6.3 miles take you to several Lake Michigan access points and to Bass Lake, Otter Lake, and Otter Creek. White Pines backcountry campground is located on this trail system.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Platte River Point
Take your pick of river or open water (or both) at this popular swimming area on Platte River Point at the end of Lake Michigan Road. The nearby beach is a nesting area for the endangered Piping Plover so please heed warning signs to protect this important species.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Platte Plains Trail
Spend all day exploring the trails, streams, and lakes of the Platte Plains area. Three loops ranging from 3.5 miles to 6.3 miles take you to several Lake Michigan access points and to Bass Lake, Otter Lake, and Otter Creek. White Pines backcountry campground is located on this trail system.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Power Island
A beautiful 2.5 mile (one-way) paddle through a protected harbor brings you to this truly unique island destination complete with a boat dock, swimming beach, hiking trails through a maple/beech forest, and a small islet on the northeast tip that has five campsites. Overnight camping is available by appointment through the Grand Traverse Parks and Recreation Department (231) 922-4818.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Provemont Pond Recreation Area
90 acres of undeveloped woodland, fishing pond.
Pyramid Point
Hike to the top of Pyramid Point for a fantastic view of Lake Michigan and North Manitou Island. It is not unusual to spot a freight ship lumbering past this exquisite overlook.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Reffitt Nature Preserve
Hikers experience this urban preserve traveling along the 1.7 mile trail loop including narrow, meandering boardwalks, and walking paths winding over distinct dune and swale complexes (small wooded hills rising above low-lying wetlands), forests and wetlands. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Learn more about this property HERE.
River Road Sports Complex
The River Road Sports Complex is a large, flat, grassy area with little significant vegetation. Its most scenic feature is the Bear River, which runs adjacent to the eastern edge of the site. Recently developed, this park provides excellent sports facilities for soccer and softball, both of which are in high demand in the area. Several years ago, a second development phase resulted in construction of a practice soccer field and a 24-hole disc-golf course.
Rogers Family Homestead / Dressel / Jordan River
A broad diversity of habitats lie along this stretch of the Jordan River ranging from mixed hardwood/conifer swamp to upland savannahs. From these preserves, the river empties into the Jordan River spreads on the outskirts of the City of East Jordan.
Rural Beach
The beach at the end of this unnamed gravel road is secluded in the Port Oneida Rural Historic District of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Stairs provide access to the beach from the end of the road. This beautiful sandy beach is a hidden gem and well worth the trip.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sabin Pond
See if you can spot the local swans at two overlooks of Sabin Pond.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sabin Pond
Start at the Boardman River Nature Center and head out on the well marked trails to one of the several overlooks on Sabin Pond. There you may see a variety of waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians. This 505-acre natural area includes marsh, swamp, upland forest, pine forest, creek, river, and an active beaver pond. The cover types of the area provide excellent habitat for beaver, otter, mink, fox, deer, and many other animals and birds. The Boardman River runs through the property and is the central feature of the reserve.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sand Volleyball Courts
Five beach volleyball courts overlook stunning West Bay. Adjacent to West End beach and the Open Space, these maintained courts are always popular during warm months.
Schneider’s Beach & Park
Public beach with picnic area on North Lake Leelanau at the end of Popp Road (off M-204) 1.5 miles west of village of Lake Leelanau.
School Lake
Grab a paddle and head out to School Lake for a quiet experience with nature. Set a course along the edge of the lake for excellent bird watching opportunities. A boat ramp, parking, and vault toilet are available just off of County Road 669 about 1.5 miles south of M-22. Bass Lake can be reached from School Lake with just a short portage from the north side of School Lake.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Senior Center Park
The Senior Center is situated on beautiful City park land along the beaches of Grand Traverse Bay. The beach, tennis and shuffleboard courts are open daily to the general public with convenient access to restrooms.
Seven Springs Nature Preserve
Numerous springs along the shore provide habitat for endangered species. Beautiful upland forest graces this preserve’s upper portions while dense forested wetlands can be found below the dramatic bluff that runs across the property just back from the water’s edge. The wave-swept shore consists of cobble beaches and beds of emergent rushes providing good habitat for fish and other aquatic life.
Shauger Hills
You will get a workout on this trail. Steep hills through densely forested areas expose you to the understory of the deciduous forest. There are no scenic vistas, but spring wildflowers are abundant. The trailhead is located at the parking area at the entrance to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Shauger Hills Trail
You will get a workout on this trail! Steep hills through densely forested areas make for a challenging, ungroomed trail. The woods are beautiful, but don’t expect any scenic vistas. The trailhead is located at the parking area at the entrance to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Shauger Hills Trail
You will get a workout on this trail! Steep hills through densely forested areas make for a challenging, ungroomed ski course. The woods are beautiful, but don’t expect any scenic vistas. The trailhead is located at the parking area at the entrance to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Schecks to Shumsky
This beautiful paddle showcases “Up North” Michigan at its finest. The first leg of your 10.4 mile journey will take you past a smattering of private cabins before opening up into the Brown Bridge Quiet Area, the site of a nearly $5,000,000 dam removal and river restoration project completed in Summer 2012 (www.theboardman.org). Your second leg traverses a diverse river valley filled with wildlife as you pass by a variety of cabins and paddle under several bridges large and small.
Shell Lake
A wilderness paddling adventure awaits anyone who comes to Shell Lake. Just getting to the lake is an adventure, so check your GPS and maps before heading out. This shallow lake has great birding, good fishing and a beaver lodge to explore while quietly paddling along the shore.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Silver Lake Park
This short paved loop (.7 miles) allows users of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors. Amenities at the Silver Lake Recreation Area include restrooms, grills, a tee-ball field, tennis courts, basketball courts, paved and unpaved walking trails, a sledding hill, and a multi-use field for playing catch, football, or tossing a Frisbee. There are also three picnic pavilions at this park, which may be reserved and are popular for family reunions and company picnics. The paved trail loop surrounds the developed portion of the site and measures 3,700 feet long (seven-tenths of a mile). The unpaved trails, which meander around Hidden Lake and near the shores of the north branch of Silver Lake, total about 4,400 feet in length.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Shumsky to Bietner
A very manageable 4.4 mile trip will take you along the Boardman River Valley past a variety of woodland habitats dotted with private cabins. Note, in high water you may need to portage around one or two private bridges.
Shumsky to Lone Pine
From lazy river, to fast flowing water, your 5.4 mile trip will take you through a variety of wetland and northern woodland habitat. The final mile of your journey takes you past the Bietner Road Canoe Launch and into the Boardman Rapids. Pull over at the Lone Pine Boat Launch and take the ~100-yard trail to the parking area. Note, in high water you may need to portage around one or two private bridges.
Ski the Vasa 5K
The race made it famous, but the world-class trail brings ’em back! Cross-country ski the nationally renowned Vasa Pathway, host to the North American Vasa festival of races annually in February. The rolling hills and serene beauty of the Pere Marquette State Forest make it a winter destination. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better ski experience, as the trail is meticulously groomed by TART Trails.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Ski the Vasa 10k
The race made it famous, but the world-class trail brings ’em back! Cross-country ski the nationally renowned Vasa Pathway, host to the North American Vasa festival of races annually in February. The rolling hills and serene beauty of the Pere Marquette State Forest make it a winter destination. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better ski experience, as the trail is meticulously groomed by TART Trails.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Ski the Vasa 25K
The race made it famous, but the world-class trail brings ’em back! Cross-country ski the nationally renowned Vasa Pathway, host to the North American Vasa festival of races annually in February. The rolling hills and serene beauty of the Pere Marquette State Forest make it a winter destination. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better ski experience, as the trail is meticulously groomed by TART Trails.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Trail
This strenuous hike through the steep, sandy dunes is worth the effort. Bring a camera to capture the views. In the summer, wear sunscreen, bring water, and wear your shoes. When you arrive at Lake Michigan, walk .25 miles north to view shipwreck from the 1800s.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Walk the base of the dunes through the forest and along the abandoned railroad grade to and from Glen Haven historic village. You can start at the Dune Climb or at Glen Haven.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Opened in 2012, the paved, multi-use Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the only trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes that allows bicycles. The trail runs from the popular Dune Climb, along the base of the sand dunes through the historic town of Glen Haven eventually ending up in Glen Arbor where you can enjoy a number of quaint shops and restaurants.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Opened in 2012, the paved, multi-use Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the only trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes that allows bicycles. The trail runs from the popular Dune Climb, along the base of the sand dunes through the historic town of Glen Haven eventually ending up in Glen Arbor where you can enjoy a number of quaint shops & restaurants. There is currently 4.3 miles of paved trail.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sleeping Bear Point
This hike takes you through the native dune grasses of the dunes near Sleeping Bear Point. Take a short spur to the Lake Michigan shoreline and enjoy a walk along the beach. The views of North and South Manitou Island are fabulous.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve
The stream (known as Sear Creek) running through this preserve is home to brook trout and empties into the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix. The property is dominated by Sugar Maple, American Beech, and Ash, and also includes Aspen and Hemlock. The beautiful forest is second growth, and large stumps with fire scars scattered throughout the preserve stand as testimony to its past logging days. A small parking area and more than one mile of easy walking trails are available.
Solon Park
Solon Township Beach Park is located off of South Lake Shore Drive. Approximately four miles east of Cedar, MI. The park has several picnic shelters and grills for your picnic needs. Located on Lake Leelanau, it truly is a wonderful place to spend the day!
South Long Lake
South Long Lake Forest Natural Area, covering 229 acres, is primarily forested land which includes both upland and wetland habitats. The property was acquired with the intent to provide passive recreation opportunities and protect natural features. There is a trailhead with an information station at the South Long Lake Road entrance. Check the map for designated trail information.
Learn more about this property HERE.
South Long Lake
South Long Lake Forest Natural Area, covering 229 acres, is primarily forested land which includes both upland and wetland habitats. The property was acquired with the intent to provide passive recreation opportunities and protect natural features. There is a trailhead with an information station at the South Long Lake Road entrance. Check the map for designated trail information.
Learn more about this property HERE.
South Long Lake
South Long Lake Forest Natural Area, covering 229 acres, is primarily forested land which includes both upland and wetland habitats. The property was acquired with the intent to provide passive recreation opportunities and protect natural features. There is a trailhead with an information station at the South Long Lake Road entrance. Check the map for designated trail information.
Learn more about this property HERE.
South Long Lake
South Long Lake Forest Natural Area, covering 229 acres, is primarily forested land which includes both upland and wetland habitats. The property was acquired with the intent to provide passive recreation opportunities and protect natural features. There is a trailhead with an information station at the South Long Lake Road entrance. Check the map for designated trail information.
Learn more about this property HERE.
South Shore
South Shore Park, also known as Sutton Park, is nestled in the southern end of the bay and has 300 ft. of shoreline. The park is a perfect location for swimming and picnics. Playground equipment, a picnic shelter and bathrooms are available.
South Manitou
Take a day trip to South Manitou Island. The ferry to the island leaves from Leland daily during the summer. Make reservations ahead of time and get to the ferry dock by 9:30 AM (231-256-9061). While on the island, be sure to climb to the top of the lighthouse for a beautiful view of Lake Michigan.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Spring Lake Park
This park lies along Spring Lake and provides a natural oasis just outside of Petoskey. A gazebo, overlook, boardwalked trails, water and restroom facilities, picnic tables, and a fishing platform are available.
Sturgeon Bay Dunes
Unquestionably one of the most beloved public beaches in northwestern Lower Michigan.
Sunset Park
Sunset Park is a great park for relaxing, reading or taking a walk out on the pier. It boasts a deep lush grassy area from the road, picnic tables, lots of grills and swing set.
Taylor Park
Taylor Park is one of two public parks on Long Lake. Taylor Park is a popular public beach, offering a place to swim with a natural, beautifully forested setting. It is located directly across from Long Lake Grocery on North Long Lake Road. Taylor Park is handicap accessible with a Mobi-Mat allowing wheelchair accessibility to the water’s edge, it has a beach and swimming area, a volleyball court, a small dock (not for diving), a naturally shaded picnic area, and public restrooms. The park is located approximately 6.5 miles from Traverse City.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Vasa Pathway
Enjoy some of the best winter trail riding in Northern Michigan. The Vasa has been a destination for Cross Country skiers for years, so make sure you obey the signage and try to keep of the ski tracks. TART encourages riders to enjoy fat tire biking on Fridays!
Learn more about this property HERE.
Tiesma Road
Swimming at Tiesma Road Beach is ideal. Depending up the time of year you may have the whole beach to yourself. Tiesma Road is not marked, so you may have to hunt for the turn-off from Lake Michigan Road about 0.5 miles from M-22.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Traverse City History on Boardman Lake
Put in at Hull Park and discover the lake that gave the River its name. During the logging era of the mid to late 19th century Boardman Lake was used as a weigh station for logs on their way to the Union Street saw mill. Today is host to a variety of recreational activities and serves as a beautiful backdrop to the TART Trail and Traverse Area District Library. The Lake itself is named for Harry Boardman, a Chicago-area lumber barren that first purchased the logging rights to this area in 1848.
Traverse City State Park
Traverse City State Park is a completely developed, 47 acre, urban park that features a quarter mile of beautiful beach on the East Arm of the Grand Traverse Bay. Suitable for day use and camping, the Park has 343 sites in a completely wooded mix of hard and soft wood trees. The park is located two miles from downtown Traverse City and is open year round. A recreation passport is required to enter the park and can be purchased on-site (or at the Secretary of State for residents).
Features: bike path which connects to the TART Trail, Traverse City’s bike trail network, kayak and hydrobike rentals, walking/hiking on TART Trails, concessions stand, electrical service, modern heated restrooms, group-use camping area, cottage available for rent on a nightly or weekly basis.
Treat Farm
Explore the historic Treat Farm. Park on the roadside at the corner of Norconk and Stormer Roads south of Empire and walk .5 miles up the old driveway to the farm. After walking around the unique farm buildings, set off on the trail through the meadow to the bluff over Lake Michigan another .5 miles away. Visit in the springtime and enjoy the best display of wildflowers in Sleeping Bear Dunes!
Learn more about this property HERE.
Treat Farm
Explore the historic Treat Farm. Park on the roadside at the corner of Norconk and Stormer Roads south of Empire and walk .5 miles up the old driveway to the farm. After walking around the unique farm buildings, set off on the trail through the meadow to the bluff over Lake Michigan another .5 miles away. Visit in the springtime to enjoy the best display of wildflowers in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Treat Farm
Explore the historic Treat Farm. Park on the roadside at the corner of Norconk and Stormer Roads south of Empire and walk .5 miles up the old driveway to the farm. After walking around the unique farm buildings, set off on the trail through the meadow to the bluff over Lake Michigan another .5 miles away. Visit in the springtime to enjoy the best display of wildflowers in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Twin Lakes
If you’re looking for a family nature hike near Traverse City, but don’t want to get too far off the beaten track, Twin Lakes is the place for you. With plenty of parking, a swimming area and nearby restrooms, this easy to find experience offers the amenities you’re looking for without compromising the feel of northern Michigan.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Wheels and Reels
Cycle and fish in of the most scenic and serene areas of Leelanau County. Ride from the iconic yellow caboose at Carter Road to the DeYoung Natural Area and follow trails to the fishing platform on Cedar Lake. This is a great way to introduce youngsters to fishing, riding and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Union Street Dam Park
Situated directly adjacent to one another, Lay Park and Union Street Dam Park function as one. Together, they provide some of the most direct access to the river within the urban core of Traverse City, offering opportunities for fishing, picnicking and relaxing. The Union Street Dam and fish ladder provide a unique river experience, allowing visitors to cross the river by foot and get extremely close to the rushing water.
Vasa Pathway
Like rolling in the dirt? Ride the rolling hills and flat two-track of the Vasa Pathway in the scenic Pere Marquette State Forest. There are a few moderate to challenging climbs, but it is all very rideable for sport-level bikers. The 25k loop offers a few short-cut options that are marked along the way.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Vasa Poles and Paws
Cross-country ski the Meadows loop of the Vasa Pathway with man’s best friend. Be forewarned that locals call it ‘the poop loop’ as it is frequently used by dog lovers to get outdoors in the winter with their four-pawed friends.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Vic Steimel Park
A one acre parcel located off of Nanagosa Trail on Stoney Point. The park has rocky beach frontage on Grand Traverse Bay with a small boat launch. Picnic tables and grilles are available. ADA accessible picnic tables are provided. Portajohn available. No potable water.
Ski Leelanau
This short, but rewarding cross country skiing experience will lead you through one of Michigan’s most spectacular, and geologically unique birding areas. Bring your winter boots and extend your trip with a walk along the Natural Area’s exquisite cobble shoreline. Steep stairs lead to an observation deck with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan including South Fox Island.
Walk of Art
Walk of Art is a permanent sculpture park with a rotating exhibit of works, organized and developed by Art Rapids! in cooperation with Antrim County. Each sculpture will be on display for a maximum of three years. Art Rapids! is a non-profit organization formed in 2006 and led by a volunteer board. Its mission is to enhance and promote the arts and art education in the Elk Rapids area.
Walk of Art is located in the 15-acre Elk Rapids Day Park. Each season offers up a delightful mix of dramatic views of bay and sky, frequent wildlife sightings, and recreational activities. Rustic trails lace the park and lead to numerous picnic sites tucked into the forest edges and dunes. A larger picnic grove abuts a central clearing that also contains a bathhouse with modern restroom facilities. A children’s play area is situated near the beach. Please note, the parking lot gate is closed and locked at 9:00 p.m. and throughout the winter; pedestrian access is available at all times.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Water Wheel Park
Water Wheel Park is located on St. Mary’s Street. The small water feature is a prime photo opportunity for visitors. The park has a tennis court and basketball court as well as several picnic tables.
West End Beach
Large, bay-front park and beach features ample parking and restrooms. You will find it overlooking West Grand Traverse Bay at the foot of Division Street, on Grandview Parkway, just west of downtown Traverse City.
Windy Moraine Trail
As you enjoy this rolling, scenic trail overlooking Glen Lake think about the mile-thick glacier that covered this area over 10,000 years ago. The diversity of deciduous trees and soil conditions produces a vivid autumn display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Windy Moraine Trail
As you enjoy this rolling, scenic trail overlooking Glen Lake think about the mile-thick glacier that covered this area over 10,000 years ago. Come back in autumn to enjoy a vivid foliage display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Windy Moraine
As you enjoy this rolling, scenic trail overlooking Glen Lake think about the mile-thick glacier that covered this area over 10,000 years ago. A diversity of deciduous trees and soil conditions produces a vivid autumn display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Wisser Saworski Nature Preserve
An open meadow just past the parking area leads to rolling hardwoods with dramatic slopes. Much of the property is fairly hilly. Other habitat types include a conifer plantation, upland hardwood forest, and an old farmstead that is now quite thick with blackberry brambles. Scenic views of Boyne Mountain and the Boyne Valley are visible from the land’s high points and this preserve provides a scenic corridor along US-131 south of Boyne Falls.
Yuba Creek
The point-to-point route runs almost the length of the valley where glimpses of the creek can be seen from the trail which moves through an open field landscape. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Learn more about this property HERE.
Yuba Creek
The point-to-point route runs almost the length of the valley where glimpses of the creek can be seen from the trail which moves through an open field landscape. Consult the map at the trail head and select a distance that meets your time requirements.
Climb the Dunes and Hike to Lake Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes
This strenuous hike through the steep, sandy dunes is worth the effort. Bring a camera to capture the views. In the summer, wear sunscreen, bring water, and wear your shoes. When you arrive at Lake Michigan, walk .25 miles north to view a shipwreck from the 1800s.
Learn more about this property HERE.
