Little Traverse Conservancy

Little Traverse Conservancy offers families a chance to explore Northern Michigan's natural beauty through a network of well-maintained hiking trails in the Petoskey area. With trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes, this free nature preserve lets kids discover forests, wetlands, and local wildlife while getting fresh air and exercise in a safe, protected environment.

• ✓Multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels to match your family's hiking ability
• ✓Opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, porcupines, birds, and small woodland creatures
• ✓Educational moments learning about Michigan ecosystems, native plants, and conservation
• ✓Peaceful forest walks with minimal crowds, especially on weekdays
• ✓Free admission makes it perfect for repeat visits throughout your stay

1. 1.Stop by the office on weekdays to pick up free trail maps and ask staff for trail recommendations based on your kids' ages and abilities.
2. 2.Bring a nature journal or smartphone for kids to document interesting plants, animal tracks, and fungi they spot along the trails.
3. 3.Pack layers and bug spray, especially in spring and early summer when trails can be buggy but wildflowers are at their peak.
4. 4.Many trails are part of a larger network, so download offline maps or take a photo of trailhead signs to avoid getting turned around.
5. 5.Visit after a rain for the best chance to spot salamanders, frogs, and interesting insects that kids love to observe.

Visit on weekday mornings in fall (September-October) for the most peaceful experience and stunning fall foliage. Spring (May-June) offers wildflowers and active wildlife, though trails can be muddier. Summer weekends see more traffic but offer the warmest weather for post-hike picnics.

The preserve is completely free to visit. Note that the office has limited weekday hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM) and is closed weekends, but trails remain accessible year-round from dawn to dusk. Bring your own water and snacks as there are no facilities on most trail systems.

Trails are open year-round, though some may be muddy in spring or snow-covered in winter (great for snowshoeing with older kids). Fall offers spectacular leaf-peeping opportunities. Office hours are weekday-only, so plan to be self-guided on weekends.

Head to Noggin Room Pub in Harbor Springs for casual family dining with burgers and pizza, or try Gurney's Donut Shop in Petoskey for a post-hike treat that kids will love.