As a Grand Rapids native, I am big on utilizing all the warm summer days I can get. Even though Michigan is blessed with all four seasons, somehow summer never feels long enough. When I was young, I would play outside with my neighborhood friends from sunrise until sunset. Now that I’m older and no longer have my neighborhood friends, I’ve embraced the outdoors in a different way. Grand Rapids is home to many outdoor experiences, but one of my favorites is our array of trails. Whether I’m going for a run, a bike ride, roller skating, or a walk, these three trails are amazing.
Provin Trails,
One of my favorite trails is Provin Trails located off of 4 Mile Road. The moderate trail features various interconnected loops that span nearly a mile. It’s great for hiking in the spring, summer, and fall. It also offers a scenic and peaceful experience for cross-country skiing during the winter months. It’s a great place for a brisk hike that will get your heart pumping, a different dog-walking route, and a beautiful background for photos!
Huff Park
Walking the trails at Huff Park makes you forget you’re near the city. With around a mile of trail to see, you get to see a part of the wetlands you’ve never seen before. Lamberton Creek, located in Huff Park, will guide your hike through the wetlands and into the forest where you’ll get to see many wildlife, offering a quiet and immersive outdoor experience that you will love.
Buck Creek Nature Preserve
If you’re looking for a good mix of paved and unpaved trails that lead you near a creek and an open field, Buck Creek is one of my favorite places to go. It’s quiet and full of wildlife, while still being moderately tracked with people. Every time I go there, I see deer, snakes, fish, frogs, and so many different types. It’s a true nature preserve in the middle of West Michigan!
We hope, wherever the trails take you, you enjoy the beauty West Michigan has to offer. We sure are lucky to live in this great state!