Michigan's "Sunset Side" is blessed with unique hiking trails, remote areas of Lake Michigan, and scenery every naturalist dreams about. A hike on these trails is not just a walk down a dirt path, but the opportunity to see some of Michigan's most spectacular natural jewels.

The scenery is as varied as anywhere in the country, and so are the trails: From coastal sand dunes to towering pines and hardwoods; from remote Lake Michigan beaches to wilderness inland lakes, all of these wonders of Nature can be reached by well-marked hiking trails.

Here is one of our personal favorites.

Grass River Natural Area, Inc.
PO Box 231
Bellaire MI 49615-0231
Telephone: 616.533.8576 or 616.533.8314

Michigan Atlas & Gazetteer Location 75A6

County: Antrim

Directions to Trail Head:
Between Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake, 8.5 miles west of Mancelona via M88 and Co. Rd. 618 (Alden Hwy.) and 1.5 miles East of Crystal Springs Rd. and 0.5 miles west of Comfort Rd. On Co. Rd. 618 (Alden Hwy).

Trail Distance:
Three Miles (Five Loops, the shortest 0.25 miles and the longest 2.25 miles).

This very enjoyable interpretive trail meanders through a 1,000 acre preserve and is enjoyed by hikers and cross country skiers alike (narrow pathways make skiing difficult for the unskilled). The Grass River Natural Area trail offers scenic vistas, as well as a close-up look at a wide variety of native flora representing Northwestern Michigan at its finest. Among the visual delights you will have the opportunity to enjoy include, woodland and wildlife; ferns, Tamaracks and floating sedges. The trail surface is mixed between natural dirt paths and boardwalks designed to protect the delicate flora and fauna (please do not leave the trail). The trail is totally flat and even the most casual walker will find this an easy and enjoyable hike. Benches are provided along the way in order to enjoy the experience.

There are no fees to visit the Grass River Natural Area, but donations are accepted and very much appreciated in order to maintain the boardwalks and the Grass River Natural Area's excellent interpretive education program. If you wish to participate in a naturalist guided learning experience, please contact Grass River Natural Area, Inc., for their guide to naturalists guided walks and other educational opportunities.

NO bikes, camping, smoking, food, pets or motorized vehicles.

NOTE:
Insects are plentiful. The Grass River Natural Area is not treated with insecticide. Please respect the environment and those of us who share your love for this natural area. Please take out everything that you bring in. Please respect the peaceful solitude of nature in order to maximize your opportunity to enjoy the wildlife.
Your comments are encouraged and appreciated. Please contact us at:

Remember when visiting us, please LEAVE NO TRACE!