Mason Tract Pathway Trailhead

Mason Tract Pathway Trailhead offers families a peaceful escape into Michigan's pristine forest with well-maintained, easy-to-navigate trails perfect for little hikers. With its impressive 4.9-star rating and free admission, this protected preserve delivers stunning natural beauty along the Au Sable River without breaking the bank. The family-friendly pathways wind through towering pines and hardwoods, offering plenty of opportunities for nature discovery and wildlife spotting.

• ✓Scenic Au Sable River views and access points for waterside exploration
• ✓Well-marked trails with various loop options to match your family's energy level
• ✓Abundant wildlife including deer, birds, and small forest creatures to spot
• ✓Towering old-growth trees that make kids feel like they're in an enchanted forest
• ✓Peaceful, uncrowded trails perfect for nature photography and quiet observation

1. 1.Start at the Canoe Harbor parking area early morning for the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures during summer hikes.
2. 2.Bring bug spray, especially from May through July, as mosquitoes can be persistent near the river areas.
3. 3.Pack a field guide or use a nature app to identify birds and plants along the trail, turning the hike into an educational adventure.
4. 4.Download an offline map before you go, as cell service can be spotty in the preserve.
5. 5.The trails connect to river access points perfect for skipping stones or dipping toes during warmer months.

Visit during fall (September through October) for spectacular foliage and comfortable temperatures, or early morning on weekdays year-round to have the trails mostly to yourselves. Spring brings wildflowers but muddier conditions, while summer offers lush greenery but more bugs.

This state preserve is completely free to visit with parking available at the Canoe Harbor Road trailhead. There are no facilities on-site, so plan bathroom breaks before arriving and pack plenty of water and snacks for your adventure.

Trails are accessible year-round, though winter visits require snowshoes or cross-country skis when snow is deep. Spring can be muddy (March through early May), making trails more challenging. Fall color peaks in early October, drawing more visitors but still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.

Head to Paddle Hard Brewing in downtown Grayling (about 10 minutes away) for family-friendly pub fare and outdoor seating, or grab classic burgers and shakes at Grayling Restaurant on the main strip.