 a Hemlock Crossing trail (photo by jhy) |
by jhy
I had the opportunity to hike just over 5 miles at Hemlock Crossing this week, and it's definitely a great place for various levels of difficulty, and potential lengths from quickie hikes to longer adventures.
Located just west of US 31 at West Olive, Michigan, the trail system includes a short accessible loop (the Meadow Loop), but it also connects to the paved Lakeshore Trail which runs for 20 miles connecting Grand Haven State Park with Holland State Park.
However, once you cross the Pigeon River on a wooden footbridge, the trails are natural surface, and only foot travel (includes skis and snowshoes) is allowed. Pets are allowed on leash. There are numerous loops you can follow to create your own custom hike. If you stay close to the river, the topography will be more level, but as you go away from the water, there are increasing hills. Most are only gently rolling. Junctions are numbered and well marked with maps and clear arrows leading to the next junction.
 Pigeon River from a Hemlock Crossing trail (photo by jhy) |
At the west end of the park, the trails connect with Pine Bend where there is also parking. Both a toilet house (seasonal) and a latrine are available at the Hemlock Crossing end. Pine Bend only has a latrine. Parking at both locations is free.
The fact that these parks connect means you have even more choices for trails and potential loops. Hemlock Crossing together with Pine Bend provide over 12 unique miles of trail. Almost all the trails are wooded with packed earth surface. There are some occasional areas of looser sand and a few bridges and boardwalks. There are numerous observation platforms near the river, and benches for resting.
There is also a canoe/kayak launch to paddle the Pigeon River. This is a short river entirely within Ottawa County (note- there are five Pigeon Rivers in Michigan).
A public observatory is open for sky viewing every Friday night.
 overview map- see pdf map link below (photo by jhy) |
From March 1 - October 15 the hours are 7am to 10pm, and from October 16 - February 28 trails are open 7am to 8pm.
See pdf map of the area
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid
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