Ottawa County Offers "Step It Up"

Step It Up (photo from Ottawa County Parkd)

from Ottawa County Parks

The Ottawa County, Michigan, Parks and Recreation Commission is offering a free 8-week program designed to help you stay active and explore new parks. Hikes are held each week from April 28-June 20, 2026. Dogs are welcome on leash.

Eight guided hikes/activities will be held. Locations are:
• Hemlock Crossings
• Grand Ravines
• Upper Macatawa Natural area OR Preview the Grand Explorers Trail Race at Grand River Park
• Connor Bayou- hike and paddle
• Ottawa Sands
• Paw Paw Park OR hike and kayak at Ottawa Sands
• Ottawa Sands
• Pigeon Creek
• Grand River Park

See more detail at Ottawa County Parks


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Events Calendar to be Discontinued

from jhy

Sorry, folks, I can't keep up the news and the calendar. It's just too much work. I will try to highlight some of the major events that come along.


These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

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Paddling Film Festival February 27

Events Calendar

paddling (photo from Quiet Adventure Society)

from the Quiet Adventure Society

In connection with the 2026 Quiet Adventure Symposium, there will be a a night of film to kick off the event. A selection of this year's 2026 Paddling Film Festival World Tour is brought to you by Drift and Roam Events and Quiet Adventure Society. The Film Festival will be at E. L. Hannah Community Center: Albert A. White Auditorium, 819 Abbot Rd, East Lansing, Michigan, 48823, on Fri, Feb 27, 2026 from 7-10 pm.

This event will feature 6 Films including the award winners for Best Canoeing Film, Best Instructional Film, Best Short Film, Best Documentary, and a Special Jury Mention.

General Admission: 320 seats on the main floor and 155 seats in the balcony. Seats are first come first serve at doors. Advance discounted tickets avalible thru 1/31 for $8. Advanced tickets available starting 2/1 and running thru 2/26 $10. Day of tickets 2/27 at Door $15(Cash/Card). Children (10 and under) FREE with adult ticket. Verification of age to be provided if asked, at the discretion of venue staff.

Proceeds from this event will equally go to support the misisons of Drift and Roam Events and Quiet Adventures Society as oulined below.

The day-long Quiet Adventure Symposium will be February 28, 2026 at the Farm Bureau Pavilion at MSU, Lansing, Michigan.

Drift and Roam, LLC ’s goal is to connect people of all backgrounds with the joy of paddling and the beauty of the natural world. Through inclusive programs, accessible adventures, and a welcoming community, we inspire exploration, stewardship, and a lifelong love for the outdoors. The first step in this is building a following by hosting engaging events in the Metro Detroit area such as paddling basics clinics, safety techniques, and competitive races.

The Quiet Aventure Society seeks to educate the public and encourage participation in non-motorized, outdoor recreation; to promote public concern and support environmental stewardship and conservation of natural resources of the Great Lakes region; to plan and execute annual and special events for any or all of the purposes listed. They have hosted the annual Quiet Adventure Symposium (formerly Quiet Water Symposium) since 1996.

Buy tickets


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Grand Rapids World of Winter Walking/ Biking Opportunities

Events Calendar

snow snakes (photo from Hey Michigan)

based on a web article from Hey Michigan

The World of Winter Festival 2026 kicks off on January 9, 2026 and runs until March 1. The event is primarily a self-motivated walking tour to see dozens of art installations scattered throughout downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. It bills itself as the largest free winter festival in the United States. To enjoy art of all kinds, food, and economic stimulation are the primary pursuits.

However, there are several planned activities which fall more into the hiking or outdoor recreation category.

There is an ongoing scavenger hunt with weekly prizes. This is open to individuals or teams. The hunt can be completed at your own pace during festival hours. Missions take approximately 1–2 hours to complete and points earned enter you into weekly prize draws. Teams can consist of any number of participants. A mobile device with the GooseChase app is required

A number of guided walks to various art istallations are being offered. The event calendar lists more dates than the event links. The certain dates for these are:
• January 23, 6-7 pm. Meet at Rosa Parks Circle. Led by Candice Smith who will share the stories and inspiration behind each piece. Free. No registration needed.
• February 6- same info as above.
• February 14- same info as above.
• February 26- same info as above.
• February 21- 3-4 pm. Meet at Rosa Parks Circle. Window display walking tour. Learn the stories behind each installation, meet the creative minds behind the art, and discover the businesses and historic buildings that host them.
• Other dates for guided walks are listed on the pdf calendar, but no information is available about them.

There is a luminary group bike ride to explore Grand Rapids by bike under luminary lights! This is free and open to riders 18 and older. Helmets are required. Post-ride celebration is also free. See complete details at Luminary Bike Ride

Also of possible interest to outdoor enthusiasts is a Snow Snake competition. This will be held February 28 from 11 am - 4 pm. Experience a traditional northern Native American winter game at this thrilling Snow Snake Competition. Competitors slide handcrafted “snow snakes” down a long snow trough, aiming for the farthest throw.

Participants of all ages can compete in brackets, and the overall winner takes home a $1,000 grand prize. Practice snakes are available for beginners, making this event fun for spectators and first-time throwers alike. Register on-site. Event held at Sixth Stree Park, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Cost not stated.

See World of Winter official website


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Events for the Week of Nov 24-30, 2025

compiled from various sources

I am attempting to build an actual calendar so that notices could be seen more than a few days in advance. Projected launch date: Nov 25

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Thru Nov 30- Storybook Walk
Holland, Paw Paw Park East
Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm, Sunday 12pm – 5pm
storywalk hike
1230 Paw Paw Drive, Holland, MI 49423
Free

Take a StoryWalk! Pages from a featured book will be posted on signs along the path for your family to read together. Stories are available to read during park hours. Thank you to our local libraries, Loutit District Library and Herrick District Library, for making StoryWalks possible!

Current book is Thanks/ Gracias by Pat Mora

For Storywalk schedules, see the Ottawa Hikes Foundation on Facebook

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Tuesday, Nov 4- Hike Muskegon regular hike
Muskegon area
11:00 AM
hike
See Facebook page
Free

The Hike Muskegon- West Michigan Parks group hikes every Tuesday and Saturday at 11:00 am (and occasionally other dates). Their destinations are posted only a couple of days ahead of time, so check the Facebook Group to find where the next hike will be.

For more information, see the Hike Muskegon Facebook Group

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Friday, Nov 28- Land Conservancy of W Michigan Work Day
Rockford
10:00 AM
seed planting
10471 Six Mile Road, Rockford, MI
Free

Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan as we plant seeds and celebrate our volunteers and 25 years of the Saul Lake prairie project.

The Black Friday Prairie Planting has become an annual tradition at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve. This part of the season is an optimal time to plant seeds, and the volunteer event grew in popularity over the years as more people sought to "opt outside" on a day better known as a shopping extravaganza. Hundreds of people have come to know Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve because they participated in a prairie planting workday.

This year, we will host the final Black Friday Prairie Planting. At the event, we will celebrate the completion of the prairie restoration project and the volunteers who made it all possible. We'll plant seeds, enjoy games and refreshments, and there will be a short program to acknowledge this incredible milestone

For more info, contact The Land Conservancy of West Michigan

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Saturday, Nov 29- Hike Muskegon regular hike
Muskegon area
11:00 AM
hike
See Facebook page
Free

The Hike Muskegon- West Michigan Parks group hikes every Tuesday and Saturday at 11:00 am (and occasionally other dates). Their destinations are posted only a couple of days ahead of time, so check the Facebook Group to find where the next hike will be.

For more information, see the Hike Muskegon Facebook Group

**********

To have your quiet outdoor recreational event in West Michigan listed, contact Joan Young. They will be posted the Monday before the event.

These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Events for the Week of Nov 17-23, 2025

a group of Jordan Valley 45° hikers (photo provided)

compiled from various sources

I am attempting to build an actual calendar so that notices could be seen more than a few days in advance. Projected launch date: Nov 25

November 15-30 is gun deer hunting season. Some events are planned where there is no hunting.

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now open- online
registration for 2026 Happy Little Run for the Trees

Event is virtual: a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Bob Ross Inc. and a dozen other states supports tree-planting and forest health in state parks!

Pick your pace and place, anywhere outdoors during the nine-day window that includes both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 24).

Registration fee is $36 per person (and includes shipping). You'll be able to select the state of your choice when you register. You'll receive a keepsake T-shirt, sticker, commemorative bib and finisher’s medal.

For more information see Happy Little 5K

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Friday, Nov 21- Muskegon
10:00- 3:00
planting trees
Meet at Lincoln St. Parking Lot. 3071 Lincoln St. Norton Shores, MI
Free

Join Muskegon County Parks and the Muskegon Conservation District for volunteer planting days at Dune Harbor Park this month! We will plant more than 3,500 native tree seedlings—including Red Oaks, Cottonwoods, and more—throughout the beautiful new Dune Harbor Park!

These plantings will restore dunes, improve wildlife habitat, and strengthen a healthier, more resilient coastal ecosystem.

Who can join: Everyone! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, student, family, or community group, no experience is needed—just bring your energy and love for the outdoors.

What to bring: Sturdy shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing, Water bottle

Help restore and protect our dunes by planting trees and dune grass—your efforts will make a real difference for our unique coastal ecosystem.

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Friday, Nov 21- Horton Bay
11:00 AM
trail opening
Horton Bay Community Church, 4961 Boyne City Road
Free

A ribbon cutting will officially open Phase 3 of the Boyne City-Charlevoix Trail. The event will feature a few guest speakers and light refreshments.

For more information see Top of Michigan Trails Council

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Saturday, Nov 22- online
registration booking opens for Michigan State Parks

With a 6-month advance registration window, this is the earliest date a campsite can be booked for the 2026 season.

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Saturday, Nov 22- Ludington State Park
1 pm
1 mile on paved trail
Meet at Warming Shelter
Free

Learn how identification of trees can benefit your understanding of both Michigan's ecology and your local neighborhood. Ass the leaves begin to fall, practice the field skills we use to make accurate accounts of local species.

Changes/cancellation will be announced two hours in advance at 231-843-2423

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These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
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Events for the Week of Nov 10-16, 2025

a group of Jordan Valley 45° hikers (photo provided)

compiled from various sources

I am attempting to build an actual calendar so that notices could be seen more than a few days in advance. Projected launch date: Nov 25

November 15 is the opening day of gun deer hunting season. Some events are planned where there is no hunting.

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Friday, Nov 14- Muskegon
10:00- 3:00
planting dune grass
Meet at Lincoln St. Parking Lot. 3071 Lincoln St. Norton Shores, MI
Free

Join Muskegon County Parks and the Muskegon Conservation District for volunteer planting days at Dune Harbor Park this month! We will plant dune grass —throughout the beautiful new Dune Harbor Park!

These plantings will restore dunes, improve wildlife habitat, and strengthen a healthier, more resilient coastal ecosystem.

Who can join: Everyone! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, student, family, or community group, no experience is needed—just bring your energy and love for the outdoors.

What to bring: Sturdy shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing, Water bottle

Help restore and protect our dunes by planting trees and dune grass—your efforts will make a real difference for our unique coastal ecosystem.

**********

Saturday, Nov 15- Petoskey
9:30 am for long hike, noon for short hike
7 miles or 3.5 mile options
Meet at Petoskey Brewing for long hike, at Bayfront Park for short hike
Free

The Jordan Valley 45° Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will host a hike in Petoskey on the NCT, from River Road Sports Complex to Petoskey State Park.

Two hike distances are available. Long Hike (~7.0 miles) 9:30:am – River Road Sports Complex (mile 65.0) to Petoskey State Park (mile 58.0, conveniently right next to Petoskey Brewing Company). Landmarks along the way: River Road Sports Complex, the tool box, Bear River Bridge, North Central Michigan College, Bear River Walkway and Bayfront Park. If there is interest, we will tack on a side hike into Petoskey State Park. Short Hike (~3.5 miles) about noon - Park at Bayfront Park (mile ~61.5) and join the group coming down from the River Road Sports Complex. Consider hiking south along the Bear River and meeting the rest of us coming north.

As always, dress for the weather, bring plenty of water and snacks. Afterwards we plan on lunch at the Petoskey Brewing Company.

The Jordan Valley 45° Chapter’s trail runs from Starvation Lake Rd. (SE of Mancelona) to Kipp Rd. near Harbor Springs. A terrific 79 miles of awesome valleys, hills and wooded trail. Monthly hikes are usually on the third Saturday of the month.

For more information, call or text Bob Courtois at 248-212-6699. Please identify yourself if you text.

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Saturday, Nov 15- Hike Muskegon regular hike

11 am
locations and lengths vary, see link below

The Hike Muskegon- West Michigan Parks group hikes every Tuesday and Saturday at 11:00 am (and occasionally other times). Their destinations are posted only a couple of days ahead of time, so check the Facebook Group to find where the next hike will be.

For more information, see the Hike Muskegon Facebook Group

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Saturday, Nov 15- Ludington State Park

11:30 am
1 mile on paved trail
Meet at Hamlin Dam
Free

Learn the history of Ludington State Park. Meet at Hamlin Dam. 11:30 am. Approximately 1 mile on paved paths.

Once home to the old town of Hamlin and later improved upon by the CCC, the area has transformed over time in to a cherished destination for outdoor recreation and conservation.

Changes/cancellation will be announced two hours in advance at 231-843-2423

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Saturday, Nov 15- Ludington State Park

1 pm
1 mile on paved paths
Meet at the Beach House.
Free

Dune Ecology at Ludington State Park. Meet at the Lake Michigan Beach House. 1 pm. Approximately 1 mile on paved paths.

Explore the unique dune ecosystems on a guided hike with state park staff. Discover why the shifting sands create homes for some of the most unique plants and animals in Michigan and how they prepare for the cold weather.

Changes/cancellation will be announced two hours in advance at 231-843-2423

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Saturday, Nov 15- Rockford

Western Michigan Chapter NCTA
1:00 PM
paved White Pine Trail- out and back about 5 miles
Rockford City Parking
Free

For our November chapter hike, we'll enjoy a paved stretch of the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail from Rockford to Stegman Creek! Meet at the City of Rockford parking lot just north of Rockford Footwear Depot on Saturday, November 15, at 1:00 p.m. (note that this hike begins in the afternoon - not the morning like many of our monthly hikes).

For more information, contact Chris

**********

To have your quiet outdoor recreational event in West Michigan listed, contact Joan Young. They will be posted the Monday before the event.

These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid



To have your quiet outdoor recreational event in West Michigan listed, contact Joan Young. They will be posted the Monday before the event.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Events for the Week of Nov 3-9, 2025

NCT (photo provided by Chief Baw Beese Chapter NCTA)

compiled from various sources

I am attempting to build an actual calendar so that notices could be seen more than a few days in advance. Projected launch date: Nov 25

**********

Tuesday, Nov 4- Hike Muskegon regular hike
Muskegon area
11:00 AM
hike
See Facebook page
Free

The Hike Muskegon- West Michigan Parks group hikes every Tuesday and Saturday at 11:00 am (and occasionally other dates). Their destinations are posted only a couple of days ahead of time, so check the Facebook Group to find where the next hike will be.

For more information, see the Hike Muskegon Facebook Group

**********

Saturday, Nov 8- Land Conservancy of W Michigan Work Day
Rockford
9:00 AM
seed collection
10471 Six Mile Road, Rockford, MI
Free

Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan as we collect seeds at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve to expand native grassland habitat across West Michigan!

For more info, contact The Land Conservancy of West Michigan

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Saturday, Nov 8- Chief Noonday Chapter NCTA Veteran's Day Hike
Battle Creek Area
9:15 AM
2.9 or 6-mile options
Mett at NE corner of Ft Custer Dr & E. Augusta Dr, Augusta, MI
Free

Meet at the kiosk on NE corner of Ft Custer Dr & E. Augusta Dr. Park safely off side of the road: 15001 Ft. Custer Dr., Augusta, Mi. 49012 Map coordinates 42.334981, -85.338367

Natural surface terrain including gorgeous wetlands with phenomenal boardwalk through Ft. Custer land just north of the Ft. Custer cemetery. These miles can be counted in the NCTA Hike 100 Challenge 2025, and the Chief Noonday Chapter’s 3 County Challenge. Both challenges award an annual patch. This guided group hike is FREE and open to all interested humans and leashed canines. POST HIKE MEETUP: Territorial Brewing Co., 1600 Avenue A, Springfield, Mi. 49037

For more info, contact The Chief Noonday Chapter

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Saturday, Nov 8- Chief Baw Beese Chapter NCTA Work Day
Hillsdale area
9:30 AM
trail work
Meet at trailhead on M-34 between Osseo and Hillsdale
Free

The Chief Baw Beese Chapter of the NCTA will be holding a trail work day.

Meet at trailhead parking area between Osseo and Hillsdale on M-34 at the connector trail by mile marker 1159. GPS: 41.877656, -84.526546

For more info, contact The Chief Baw Beese Chapter

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Sunday, Nov 9- Ludington State Park hike
Ludington State Park
2:00 PM
guided hike
Meet at the Hamlin Beach House
Free

On our trek, we'll dive into using trail maps to navigate your route, track your location, and gauge distances to your next stop. Plus, we'll uncover bits of the park's history and maybe stumble upon that historic cemetery near the Hamlin Beach parking area. Looking forward to hiking with you!

If an event is cancelled, there will be a message on the park's answering machine, 231-843-2343

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Saturday, Nov 8- Hike Muskegon regular hike
Muskegon area
11:00 AM
hike
See Facebook page
Free

The Hike Muskegon- West Michigan Parks group hikes every Tuesday and Saturday at 11:00 am (and occasionally other dates). Their destinations are posted only a couple of days ahead of time, so check the Facebook Group to find where the next hike will be.

For more information, see the Hike Muskegon Facebook Group

**********

To have your quiet outdoor recreational event in West Michigan listed, contact Joan Young. They will be posted the Monday before the event.

These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Meteors & S'mores at Nearby State Parks

Silver Lake dunes (photo by jhy)

from a news release of the Michigan DNR

Many Michigan State Parks are inviting residents to grab their blankets and head to participating Michigan state parks Aug. 9-16 to enjoy one of the biggest and most visible astronomical events of the year: the Perseid meteor shower.

These parks are staying open late and offering "Meteors & S'mores" events in honor of this natural light show. Many of these events feature astronomy presentations, as well as - you guessed it - s'mores.

In West Michigan:
• Tuesday Aug 12, Silver Lake State Park (Oceana County), 9 p.m. (meet at dune pedestrian lot)
• Tuesday Aug 12, Wilderness State Park (Emmet County), 9 p.m. (meet at amphitheater)

• Wednesday Aug 13, Young State Park (Charlevoix County), 10 p.m. (meet at park baseball field across from loop 4)

There is no charge to attend Meteors & S'mores, but a Recreation Passport is required for any vehicle entering a Michigan state park.

For the full list of 22 locations follow the link above.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
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White Lake Shoreline Paddle Tour- August 10

kayaker (photo by JHY)

based on a news article in the Oceana Herald Journal

The White Lake Public Advisory Council (PAC) invites participants for a shoreline canoe/kayak tour of White Lake on Sunday, August 10. The tour begins at 2 pm, and will last approximately two hours.

Roger Scharmer, local historian, and Tanya Cabala, education coordinator for the PAC, will be the guides. They will talk about the purposes and benefits of shoreline habitat restoration along the Whitehall and Montague shorelines.

Due to industrial and municipal pollution, White Lake has been named one of 43 Great Lakes Areas of Concern. The US and Canadian governments work with states and provinces to develop and implement special cleanup plans. White Lake has been in the remediation process for over 20 years, and is in the final stages of a "remarkable comeback." It is scheduled for delisting at the end of 2014. This tour will highlight areas of improvement.

Greg Mund, Chair of the PAC, said, "Restoration of fish and wildlife habitat was a significant project. This will be a great opportunity to see the new habitat, as well as birds and other wildlife."

Any adult with basic paddling skills may participate. Staging will be at Maple Grove Park, 4655 Goodrich St. in Montague. Please arrive early enough to be ready to paddle at 2 pm. There is no additional cost for the tour. Some kayaks available for rent, but RSVP to tcabala@charter.net to reserve a kayak. Rain date is August 17.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
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Celebrate Surfacing of PM Trail Saturday

new Baldwin Trailhead and surfaced Pere Marquette Rail Trail where it crossed Norway St.(photo by jhy)

by Joan H. Young

This Saturday, July 26, come to Baldwin to celebrate the official opening of the newly surfaced Pere Marquette Rail Trail between Baldwin and Reed City. For too many years, this section of the trail has been more of a trial, with heavy weed growth and a poor surface for bicycling. The new trailhead was deserted today, but there should be plenty of action this weekend.

Thanks to the efforts of some folks from Baldwin, particularly Pam Simmons (owner of the Pamela Tripp Gallery), those miles have now been surfaced with a packed, crushed limestone which will provide a stable surface for bicycling and walking.

The official ribbon cutting will take place at 1 pm. Festivities will follow with drawings to win bicycle accessories, bike decorations for kids, and a safety training presented by the Lake County Sheriff's Department. Several organizations will have information tables about local history and recreation opportunities, including the Forest Service with Smokey the Bear.

A 5.5 mile fun ride to the Idlewild Historic and Cultural Center is planned. Healthy snacks will be provided.

In the evening, there is a soul/blues concert at the Wenger Pavilion in Baldwin featuring Freddie Cunningham and Root Doctor.

The new trailhead is located between 8th and 9th Streets, and Cedar and Norway. Meet there for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

The improvements to these 17 miles of trail include the crushed limestone surface, improving drainage, providing access to the roadside park on US 10 (which has latrines), improving or building trailheads at both Baldwin and Reed City, and installing accessible benches along the trail.

This project was funded with a combination of a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant and an MDOT Transportation Alternatives Program grant.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
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Quiet Water Symposium 2012

from Quiet Water Symposium

Each year, on the first Saturday of March, the Quiet Waters Symposium is held in conjunction with the Michigan State University's Agriculture and Natural Resources Week. The location is the MSU Campus, in the Pavilion for Livestock and Agriculture Education, 4301 Farm Lane Rd, East Lansing, MI.

The Quiet Water Symposium celebrates non-motorized outdoor recreation and a shared concern for our Great Lakes Environment.

At the Symposium visitors will find presentations by world famous authors, photographers, and expedition travelers. Other presentations may cover skills, safety, local and distant destinations. There may be presentations on bicycling, sailing, diving, and history.

This year's main speakers are Cliff Jacobson- "Canoeing the Boundary Waters in Style," Kevin Callan- "How to be a Happy Camper," and "The Best Canoe Routes in Ontario," and Gary & Joanie McGuffin- "Journey into the Heart of the Boreal."

Many other workshops, seminars and demonstrations will also be running throughout. Topics include outfitting, taking a dog camping, boat building, and travel programs from other outdoor adventures.

In 2011, over 1400 people enjoyed the day. It's a great deal for only $10, a little gas and lunch money.

Date: Saturday, March 3, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Admission: Adults $10.00 Students (with ID) $5.00 - under 12 Free



See Quiet Water Symposium
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

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Labor Day Events at West Michigan State Parks

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a news release of the Michigan DNR

Labor Day may mark the unofficial end to summer, but Michigan state parks are still bustling with activity. As summer winds down, GO-Get Outdoors and take advantage of the long holiday weekend to squeeze in one more camping trip, bike ride or paddling adventure. Check out what's happening in Michigan state parks over the Labor Day Weekend.

Sept. 3
Wilderness State Park (Emmet County) -- Talent Show
Campers and day users will get the chance to show off their talents during the Fifth Annual Talent Show at Wilderness State Park, taking place at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the park's amphitheater. Donated prizes will be awarded. All interested parties may register with the park. Wilderness State Park is located at 903 Wilderness Park Dr. in Carp Lake. For more information or to register for this event, contact the park at 231-436-5381.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Cadillac (Wexford County)
The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park offers a 92-mile scenic biking trail between Cadillac and Grand Rapids. Learn to enjoy the trail to its fullest with a Biking 101 class scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 3. The class will meet at the White Pine Trail Cadillac Staging Area, 7184 E. 44 Road in Cadillac, where staff from Mitchell State Park's Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center will offer the basics in bike maintenance and safety. Participants will take a five-mile ride at the completion of the class. Representatives from McLain Cycle and Fitness of Cadillac will provide an assortment of bikes for participants to demo, and loaner bikes will also be available. Children under 10 years old should be accompanied by an adult. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Grand Rapids (Kent County)
A Biking 101 clinic is also planned for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Rouge River Park Trailhead, located at the south end of the trail in Belmont. Learn about riding the White Pine Trail system, new bikes and bike safety. All levels of riders are welcome. Representatives from Ada Bike Shop, Grand Rapids Bicycle Company, Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition and Village Bike Shop will be present with demonstrations, safety tips, trail maps and more. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 5
Traverse City State Park (Grand Traverse County) -- 2nd Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk
Traverse City State Park is sponsoring its second annual Labor Day Bridge Walk (a mini version of the Governor's annual event). Join campers and park staff at 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 5 to walk the bridge overpass spanning U.S. 31 from the campground to the other side of the highway, then head to the park beach for activities and refreshments. Traverse City State Park is located at 1132 US-31 North in Traverse City. For details, contact the park at 231-922-5270.



See Michigan State Parks
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
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Century Lumber Days Sept. 24-26

Hartwick Pines Museum

a news release of Michigan DNR

Step back in time to the 19th-century at Hartwick Pines State Park's Logging Museum Sept. 24-26 and listen to a brass band, smell the aroma of food cooking over an open fire and watch as lumberjack re-enactors prepare for logging season. The annual "19th-Century Lumber Days" offers visitors the chance to experience what life was like at logging camps in the 1890s. The program takes place Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a reopening for a special event from 6:30 to 9 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Dodworth Saxhorn Band is America's premier 19th-century brass band. They have performed at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the White House and many other venues across the United States. The band brings America's past to life through music, song, audience participation, drama, poetry, dance and theatre. They will share their music through informal, strolling performances all weekend and through hour-long concerts on Friday, Sept. 24 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 25 at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. at the Logging Museum.

Food historian Susan Odom will present a selection of the wide variety of food that camp cooks served to the lumberjacks, and will discuss how important that food was to the men and the livelihood of the camp. Odom has demonstrated historic cooking at many historical museums and historic sites throughout the Midwest, including Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Greenfield Village. Cooking demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the weekend.

A Saturday-only special event, "An Evening in the Logging Camp" takes visitors back to 1896 to meet members of the Salling, Hanson and Company's "Section 9 Camp" as they prepare for the winter logging season. Visitors are invited to gather at the Visitor Center and walk by lantern light along the quarter-mile trail to the Logging Museum, where costumed interpreters will portray several members of the camp. Visitors will meet Karen "Bessie" Michelson (later Karen Hartwick), a local boardinghouse owner, the landlooker, the camp clerk, camp cooks, a teamster and the shanty boys. These camp members will talk with visitors about life in the camp, the variety of work that was done and the dangers of the job. This special event takes place Saturday, Sept. 25. Visitor Center doors will open for this event at 6:30 p.m.

Hartwick Pines State Park is located at 4216 Ranger Rd. in Grayling. The Logging Museum is administered by the Michigan Historical Center. This event is free. However, all motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a 2010 Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the park entrance or on-line through the Michigan E-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore. Cost is $24 for a resident annual and $6 for a resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8.

See Hartwick Pines Logging Museum
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National Public Lands Day

from National Public Lands Day

National Public Lands Day 2010 celebrates service and recreation on public lands while educating volunteers about the effects of climate change on our parks. NPLD engages a diverse audience of adult and youth volunteers to get to outdoors and improve their lands, whether at the grandest national park or at an urban park in their neighborhood.

NPLD inspires a new generation of volunteers committed to service on public lands. The event also encourages volunteers to explore and enjoy America's natural wonders through outdoor recreation. After working hard, volunteers can take a hike, a swim, a bicycle ride and get healthy in America's backyard.

Last September, volunteers....
Removed an estimated 900,000 lbs of trash
Collected an estimated 20,000 lbs of invasive plants
Built and maintained an estimated 1,320 miles of trails
Planted an estimated 100,000 trees, shrubs and other native plants
Contributed an estimated $14 million to improve public lands across the country

In West Michigan, three events are listed to date:
Highland Recreation Area, White Lake, MI
Cutting invasive trees and shrubs
See Michigan DNRE

Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve
Seed Collection: Enjoy a beautiful fall day while collecting native grassland seeds for the prairie at Saul Lake Bog.
See Nature Nearby

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Beach clean up
See National Park Service

See National Public Lands Day
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AFFEW Lists Fall Activities

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a news release of AFFEW

The Mason County based environmental group, AFFEW, announces the following fall activities. AFFEW stands for A Few Friends for the Environment of the World.

Beach Sweep August 10th and September 25th (International-counting done at this one). This volunteer activity removes litter from Lake Michigan beaches.

Storage Unit Sale August 27th-28th- like a garage sale, but no clothes! From The sale will be 8-4 p.m. Friday the 27th and 8-3 p.m. Saturday the 28th, at Larson’s Storage, South Jebavy Dr., Ludington, MI, Unit B 33

Donations can be made 5-7 p.m. on August 2, 9,16, 23, 26, and August 25th from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Or make contact for other times.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day August 21, 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Volunteers are always welcome. This event is at the Mason County Road Commission on US 10 east of Scottville.

Annual Dinner-October 2 Ludington Center for the Arts, 6:30 p.m. Potluck with Annual Meeting to follow.

AFFEW’s 20th Anniversary Celebration – October 2 after the Annual Meeting. Hard to believe that AFFEW has been around 20 years! To mark this accomplishment we have booked The Famous Ragbirds! This high energy roots and world music band have strong environmental beliefs. The Center only holds 110 people so MEMBERS will have until September 15th to purchase tickets. If you are not up to date with membership you might consider doing so. After that friends of AFFEW will be able to buy them. If you want to secure a ticket for yourself and family send $15 per person to Box 177 Ludington, MI 49431 with your name, phone number, and address. The tickets will be held for you at the event. Board members will also have tickets available.

Battery Recycling is still going on. For drop off points and information see the web site.

See AFFEW
Contact Julia Chambers
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Pets in the Park Day at Orchard Beach, Manistee

a news release of Michigan DNRE

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment announced that Orchard Beach State Park is hosting a "GO-Get Outdoors Pets in the Park" weekend on Saturday and Sunday, July 24 & 25. Scheduled events and activities for the weekend include dog training, a demonstration on scent detection, first aid for pets, wild animal rehabilitation, an agility and work-out course and search and rescue. A veterinarian will be on hand for a question and answer session and there will be a children's and pet parade.

Activities will start Saturday at 10 a.m. and run until 5 p.m. when the children's and pet parade will begin. Prizes donated by Manistee Equine Feed & Pet Supply of Manistee and other local businesses, will be awarded for the best costumes in the parade.

Starting at 10 a.m. Sunday, "Paws for Agility" will have an agility course set up with demonstrations. Visitors may try maneuvering the course with their pets. Participants are asked to donate pet food for use in the local pet pantry before taking their turn on the course. Also during this time, Dr. Laura Betts, a local veterinarian, will be at the park to talk about health and safety issues for your pets.

Available throughout the day on Saturday will be a display of products for pets. Visitors are welcome to bring their pets for the weekend's fun and activities.

Partnering with Orchard Beach State Park to offer the "Pets in the Park" weekend are Lori Linderman of Manistee Equine Feed and Pet Supplies, Jim Rutherford of Action Canine Institute, Chris Felty of "Paws for Agility," Dr. Laura Betts of Parkdale Animal Hospital and Little River Ottawa Indians Search & Rescue K9 Division.

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West Michigan Birding Festival

loon (photo from Sable Dunes Audubon)

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from information at Sable Dunes Audubon

Come for an unforgettable weekend or only a day to the charming town of Ludington, on the white, sandy, shores of Lake Michigan. A special opportunity for beginning and advanced birders to get an up close look at migrating birds, such as the endangered piping plover. Interactive programs and field trips guided by expert naturalists and biologists.

The second annual West Michigan Birding Festival will be held May 14-16, 2010. A full schedule of birdwatching trips, seminars, water trips and activities for kids. Activities will be staged at the Ludington Center for the Arts.

Registration covers all activities, and is extremely reasonable at $20 per adult, $5 for teens, and $1 for children 12 and under. Participants are responsible for their own food, lodging and transportation.

See Sable Dunes Audubon for more information
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Get Off The Couch Calendar Up to Date

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by JHY

It has been quite a few months since the calendar of events on the Get Off The Couch web site has been up to date. The calendar attempts to list a large number of quiet, mostly outdoor, recreation options in west Michigan. It includes programs about such activities, and volunteer work opportunities on trails. Meetings of groups dedicated to these types of activities are also listed.

It's quite a bit of work to keep it up, and over the several years that I've tried to build the resource I've only managed to convince a couple of groups to send me their schedules. This means that I have to do constant research to get accurate information.

However, it is now up to date! I'll try to maintain it better. If you are in western Michigan and have an appropriate event, feel free to let me know!



See Get Off The Couch Events
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