Grass River Natural Area

Grass River Natural Area offers families 1,500 acres of pristine northern Michigan wilderness with easy-to-navigate boardwalk trails that wind through wetlands, hardwood forests, and along the crystal-clear Grass River. The well-maintained nature center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning about local ecosystems fun for kids, while the gentle trails are perfect for little legs and strollers.

• ✓Elevated boardwalk trails offering eye-level views of wetland wildlife without getting muddy
• ✓Hands-on interpretive center with touch tanks and nature displays
• ✓Exceptional bird watching opportunities with over 100 species recorded
• ✓Crystal-clear spring-fed Grass River perfect for viewing fish and aquatic life
• ✓Six miles of scenic trails ranging from easy boardwalks to moderate forest paths

1. 1.Start at the Interpretive Center to grab a trail map and let kids earn a junior naturalist badge by completing the nature scavenger hunt.
2. 2.Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife spotting. The early morning hours offer the best chance to see deer, otters, and over 100 bird species.
3. 3.Wear waterproof shoes or boots, especially in spring, as some trail sections can be muddy even when boardwalks are dry.
4. 4.Pack bug spray during summer months, particularly for sunset walks when mosquitoes are more active.
5. 5.The Sedge Marsh Trail (1.25 miles) is the easiest for young children, featuring an elevated boardwalk with frequent wildlife viewing spots.

Visit on weekday mornings from late spring through early fall for the calmest experience and best wildlife viewing. Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) is ideal when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler for hiking. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage without the summer crowds.

Admission and parking are completely free. Restrooms are available at the Interpretive Center, but there are no food vendors on site, so pack snacks and water. The boardwalk trails are stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Open year-round with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing available in winter. Spring (April-May) brings migrating birds and wildflowers. Summer offers the fullest trail access, while fall showcases brilliant foliage. Winter trails are groomed for skiing but the Interpretive Center has limited hours.

Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire (5 miles) offers a family-friendly atmosphere with kids' menu and outdoor seating. Bellaire General Store and Deli is perfect for grabbing sandwiches to picnic at the preserve before your hike.