Nature

Hungerford Lake Recreation Area
Stretches over 36 acres with activities year round.  Offering hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and biking in the warmer weather, and cross-county skiing in the winter snow, this stop is one for anyone.

 

 North Country Tail
This footpath reaches 4,600 miles of land. Like jewels on a necklace, this trail strings together communities, prairies, and forests.  Great for hike, a chance to go for a bike ride or a simple stroll, these paths offer seasonal activities for all.  Home of the North Country Trail office.

 

 

Croton Dam
Combined with Hardy Dam, have 50 miles of shoreline that provides campgrounds, picnic areas, and boat ramps.

 

 

 

 

Hardy Dam
Along with its sister Croton Dam, form Michigan’s largest inland lake.

 

 

Hesperia Dam
Walk along the riverside boardwalk by the dam, take a swim in the Millpond, or enjoy a quiet walk out to the Gazebo on the island. The more adventurous can take a canoe or kayak trip down the White River, fish along the riverbanks, put in your own boat or hire a river guide.

Loda Lake
This wildflower sanctuary provides nature trail displaying over 150 different species of plant life.  Picnic areas are also available with gills for a lunch or dinner stop to accompany your experience.

Big Prairie Pine Forest
This is the largest desert east of the Mississippi that was formed in 1852.  It is a playground to dune rides, picnics, and long walks in the white sand.

Coolbough Natural Areas
Visitors have the chance to explore ponds and wetlands, hike through white pine and white oak forest, search for butterflies and wildflowers on prairie and barrens remnants, and listen to the bubbling waters of Bigelow and Coolbough Creeks.

 

 

High Rollaway
Picturesque view of Muskegon River, off M-82 in Newaygo with stairs to the river. A great stop in any season.

 

Manistee National Forest
Formed in 1938 this 481,000 acre forest has nationally-recognized rivers, trails, a scenic byway, over 300 miles of trails, a wilderness area, and many camping opportunities.

 

Stephen F. Wessling Observatory
Formed in 2005, this environmental center located in Fremont, gives the opportunity for the experienced spectator or for the first-time gazer the chance to become an astronomer.