More than six miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline belong to Fisherman's Island State Park. Its 2,678 acres also include dune landscapes, cedar swamps and black spruce. The park combines expansive shoreline with diverse natural areas; a 2.5-mile hiking trail runs through the area.
Shorelines and trails on different scales
Young State Park is also on the water: It spans 563 acres along the eastern shore of Lake Charlevoix and offers 6.5 miles of trails. The stated trail lengths provide a specific point of comparison: Fisherman's Island State Park has a 2.5-mile hiking trail, while Young State Park offers a 6.5-mile trail network.
Nature preserves reveal more of the landscape. Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve encompasses open fields with beautiful views and northern Michigan hardwood forests. Its 1.5-mile trail system begins at the parking lot. At Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve, more than a mile of easy walking trails wind through scenic wetlands and higher-elevation natural areas.
North Point Nature Preserve is a 28-acre wooded area with sand dunes, bordered by Mt. McSauba. Its secluded forest trail is 0.65 miles long and offers views of Lake Michigan. The recreation area itself has an 18-hole disc golf course. This part of the region thus combines a short trail with lake views and a distinct recreational offering.
Shorelines also vary in scale at other locations. Charles M. Taylor III/Olstrom Family Nature Preserve encompasses more than 1,200 feet of Lake Charlevoix shoreline; Whiting Park Beach offers about 700 feet of shoreline there. Camp Seagull has a ramp for motorized boat access, as well as beach access on Lake Charlevoix. Since access conditions may change, it’s best to check them before your visit.
Beaver Island: Trails, Island History and Getting There
Beaver Island is the largest island in Lake Michigan and offers more than 100 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Individual trail sections add to this extensive network: The one-mile trail at Miller's Marsh marks the southern terminus of the Doty's Camp Trail. A trail at Stanhope Family Nature Preserve connects with additional trails through this part of the island.
The island’s history is also distinctive. Beaver Head Lighthouse was built in 1858 as a maritime landmark. Beaver Island was once home to a unique American religious monarchy. For ferry service, the Beaver Island Boat Company runs from Charlevoix to Beaver Island; the crossing takes two hours. If you’re planning the trip, check the schedule for your travel date.
Another cultural discovery is Earl Young's Mushroom Houses. The houses are made mostly of stone and were designed to blend into the surrounding landscape. They are privately owned and are not open for interior tours. A map for a self-guided tour is available at the Visitors Center at 109 Mason St.
Architecture, Exhibits and Regional Culture
Castle Farms was built in 1918 as a model dairy farm under the name Loeb Farms and was once the largest employer in Charlevoix County. Today, the property offers year-round, self-guided exploration of its historic architecture, landscaped grounds, museum exhibits and outdoor displays. Guided historical tours take place almost daily from June to mid-September. If you’re interested in a tour, check the dates in advance.
Charlevoix County is also home to Raven Hill Discovery Center, set on 170 acres next to Raven Ridge Nature Preserve. The center features an interactive museum, an animal area and outdoor exhibits. These include the Jurassic Park Walk, the One Room Schoolhouse and the Ancient World exhibit. The different areas give visitors a focus distinct from the region’s historic buildings and landscapes.
The Jordan River also connects natural and cultural history: In 1972, it became the first river in Michigan to be designated wild and scenic under the state’s Natural Rivers Act. It is also the largest tributary of Lake Charlevoix and is considered a fly-fishing destination in northern Michigan. Those interested in rivers can explore both a historic designation and a specific fishing focus here.
The Hill Nature Preserve consists of pines, hardwood forests and open meadows; from its highest points, you can see Lake Charlevoix. A 2.5-mile trail system is groomed for cross-country skiing by a volunteer, although grooming and trail conditions may change. Susan Creek Nature Preserve has just under 2.5 miles of trails, as well as a one-mile cross-country ski loop that is only usable in winter. Check current conditions before winter activities.
The Charlevoix Farmers Market features weekly cooking demonstrations, hands-on activities for children and samples. Since the schedule may change, it’s worth checking the program for the day of your visit. Along with historic sites, trails and shorelines, the market offers another perspective on regional experiences in Charlevoix County.
Discover more destinations: Boyne Falls, Charlevoix, Beaver Island, Ionia County, Baraga County, Sanilac County, Isabella, St. Joseph.
For the main travel overview: Michigan.
