Michigan Trail Tuesday: Visit the Beautiful Trails at Clear Springs Nature Preserve in Muskegon County

Michigan Trail Tuesday is our attempt to showcase a different trail or trail segment each week. The Mitten State is home to thousands of miles of trails, including the new Iron Belle Trail that runs from Detroit in the southeast to Ironwood in the western Upper Peninsula and more miles of the North Country Trail than any other state.

Our search for a short hiking trail on a trip up north last summer led us to Clear Springs Nature Preserve near Montague. This Montague Township park property was once home to the North Star Fishery and before that was owned by Senator Thomas W. Ferry. Saved from development and preserved for all to enjoy, it is now home to six trails with a little more than two miles in total length. We loved the scenic hike at this preserve and today we will share a few photos from our visit.

Clear Springs Nature Preserve can be found on Fruitvale Rd., just east of U.S. 31 (exit 131). There isa decent size parking lot and a board that has trail maps and park information. Some pretty simple rules are posted: dogs are allowed if leashed, clean up after yourself and don’t litter, and there is no overnight camping. Park hours are dawn to dusk.

The trails here are the Rim Trail, Pond Side Trail, Crest Trail, Spring Trail, East Boundary Trail, and West Boundary Trail. We spent most of our time on the Spring Trail and the East Boundary Trail. There are interpretive signs placed along the way that give more information about the trees that are found on the property.

The trail was easy to follow and mostly wooded. There are benches in great spots to sit and enjoy the peace and quiet here. After following the spring trail to the middle of the park we crossed over to the east boundary trail and followed that to the south junction. After taking in the view of the pond, we headed back towards the parking area along the east boundary trail.

From this trail you can see some of the fish hatchery ruins. The North Star Fishery operated here in the 1940s and 1950s before the land was sold off to private ownership.

While we only covered a little over a mile during our time here, this was hiking filled with scenic views and peaceful reflection. If you find yourself north of Muskegon and looking to explore somewhere new, the Clear Springs Nature Preserve is waiting for you.

The Clear Springs Nature Preserve is located at 3585 W. Fruitvale Rd. Keep your eyes peeled for the sign as it is sometimes partially obscured by tree branches. There is also parking and access from Walsh Rd.