Rosy Mound Expansion Opens

A portion of the Dune Trail (photo by jhy)

compiled from several sources

Rosy Mound Natural Area near Grand Haven, MI, has been a small pocket of dune ecosystem with short trails since opening in 2004. The land, considered critical habitat, had been on the Ottawa County radar since 1989.

Now, an additional 127 acres, adjacent to the northeast, have been acquired. This results in a 291 acre natural area.

Trails will be expanded. The original park has only a little over 2 miles of trail, and they are challenging miles, crossing the dunes by means of stairs.

The new acres are currently open to the public, but development will proceed according to the master plan. The acquired area had been mined for sand, so restoration will be involved. Some leveled areas are suitable to be more highly developed with parking, picnic areas, restrooms, etc.

Approximately 108 acres will be protected as critical habitat. The master plan states its intention to "strike a balance between preserving the natural environment while ensuring access for all visitors to experience the area’s scenic beauty."

Results of a public survey strongly favor less development, but the strongest positive responses were for better restroom facilites, and more natural surface trails.

Approximately 4 miles of new trails will be established, more than doubling the trail network.

See the full Master Plan which includes all public comments


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

Spotlight- Pine Forest Loop Trail

Pine Forest Loop entrance (photo by jhy)

by jhy

The Pine Forest Loop is a short trail just north of Pentwater, MI, on property owned by the Pentwater Conservation Organization (PCO). This group, established in 2011, seeks to preserve a portion of the wooded dune ecosystem typical of West Michigan. Their holdings have grown from an initial 12 acres to 39 acres.

Over time, blowing sand has mixed with humus (organic material) to form a soil that is ideal for white pine, blueberries, wintergreen, and trailing arbutus. The fertile layer is shallow. Please refrain from going off trail to explore or climb the hills.

Find the trailhead just across from the Pines Motel on Business 31 north of Pentwater. Location 43.79728, -86.42862. There is parking for two or three cars.

To walk the loop in either direction, leave the parking area on the single trail heading into the woods. In just a few yards, the counter-clockwise option will turn to the right while you should continue straight to walk clockwise.

The loop does climb partway up the dune ridge. If you are walking clockwise, watch for a sharp switchback that is not marked. There is a bench just above this turn.

Markers are small green arrow emblems on trees, and it will be helpful when a few more of these are added. However, I did always find the trail with a narrow but well-established treadway.

The entire loop is less than a half mile, but this is a good place for a quick walk on natural surface trail, close to Pentwater.

Pets must be leashed No bikes, no motorized vehicles. Fires and hunting are prohibited. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm, May 1 through Labor Day, and from 9 am to dusk during the rest of the year. Sking and snowshoeing are encouraged.

There are no amenities other than the small parking area, and one bench.

Although the Conservation Organization's website mentions preservation of a "dune and swale" ecosystem, one can not see this from the trail. It would be on the lake side of the ridge.

The PCO's mission statement is: "The PCO is dedicated to the conservation of the forested dunes of West Michigan." Thus, the group seeks to preserve the natural habitat. They have worked to remove Japanese barberry and other invasive plants, while watching for interesting native species to protect. They are a member of the West Michigan Conservation Network.

The trail has been added to the Get Off The Couch website. See complete information at Pine Forest Loop

See Pentwater Conservation Organization


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 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.

**********

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.

**********

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

**********

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

**********

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

**********

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

Funding Awarded to 25 Communities for Trees

urban tree in winter (photo by jhy)

a news release of the Michigan DNR



The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, DTE Energy Foundation and ReLeaf Michigan announced this week that 25 communities and organizations across the state will share $100,000 in grant funding and other assistance to expand tree canopy and strengthen local green infrastructure. This marks 29 years of collaboration among the three partners, who continue to invest in Michigan’s urban and community forests.

The funded projects will result in the planting of approximately 750 trees in public spaces, including streets, parks and community gathering areas, in fall 2025 and spring 2026.

“Across Michigan, communities recognize how vital trees are to building resilience, whether it’s reducing heat, improving air quality or supporting mental and physical health,” said Kerry Gray, grant specialist, DNR Urban and Community Forestry. “These grants help communities plant the right tree in the right place, creating lasting benefits for residents and the environment.”

The statewide program is funded by the DTE Foundation and administered jointly by the DNR and ReLeaf Michigan, offering grant support and project technical assistance to ensure successful plantings.

“Trees connect us — to our neighborhoods, our environment and each other,” said Rodney Cole, president, DTE Foundation. “By working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and ReLeaf Michigan, we’re not just planting trees. We’re investing in cleaner air, stronger communities and a legacy of care that will grow for generations.”

The program engages communities, schools, nonprofits and local governments in environmental stewardship, neighborhood beautification and responsible tree planting away from utility infrastructure. Applications for the next round of funding will open in summer 2026.

West Michigan communties that received grants include: Cascade Charter Township (Kent County), City of Big Rapids (Mecosta County), City of Grandville (Kent County), Emmet County, Grand Traverse Conservation District (Grand Traverse County), and Kent County

See Re-Leaf Michigan

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

Kent County Will Open 10-Acre Dog Park, Spring 2026

Wahlfield Park under construction (photo from Kent County website)

a news release of Kent County , with added material

Already one of our most popular destinations for hiking and mountain biking, we’re thrilled to be adding our first enclosed dog park at Wahlfield Park. This 10-acre park will feature a one-acre small dog area, a two-acre open activity field, crushed stone walking trails through natural areas, and a one-acre swimming pond with a dog beach and jumping dock.

The park will also include a four-season family-style restroom with a dog wash station, as well as an additional restroom to serve hikers and mountain bikers. Construction is underway, and we’re planning a grand opening in late spring 2026.

Wahlfield Park is named after Fritz and Marlene Wahlfield, who donated the original 50 acres for the park in 1983. Fritz was a longtime Kent County Commissioner and parks supporter, and his son, Fritz Wahlfield Jr., and grandson, Fritz Wahlfield III, continue the family tradition of giving back to the community. Wahlfield Construction is building the two restrooms and has contributed over $200,000 in in-kind work and coordinated donations to the project. In addition, Fritz Jr. and his wife Liz have made a generous personal contribution. A big thank you to the Wahlfield family and Wahlfield Construction for helping make this incredible project a reality!

There are already hiking and mountain biking trails which are open for skiing in the winter.

The first link below shows a conceptual map of the project.

Wahlfield Park is located at 6811 Alpine Avenue, Alpine Township, MI 49321. This is north of Grand Rapids along M-37.

See map of proposed changes
See Wahlfield Park

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

Pere Marquette Conservation Park Grants Approved

Entrance sign at Pere Marquette Conservation Park (photo by jhy)

by Joan H. Young

In 2021, Pere Marquette Township (Mason County, MI) unveiled plans to develop 300 acres of property purchased from the former Dow Chemical site, on both sides of the Pere Marquette River.

The ambitious project includes trails, boat launches, picnic and restroom facilities. Interpretation, sports complexes and more are planned. A new boat launch opened in 2024 on the north side of the Pere Marquette River, just west of Oceana Drive (Old 31).

This round of funding will improve a park entry on Lakeshore Drive across from White Pine Village. There will be a new driveway with safer sight lines for exit. A 3/4-mile paved trail will extend from there to the Buttersville Campground. Better parking will be installed, and signs, lighting, etc.

These projects are proposed to be completed in 2026. The township board has recently approved to enter into a grant agreement with the Michigan DNR. The DNR will provide 48% of the funding: $400,000. This will be matched locally by $435,000 or 52%. This is the final step in accepting this grant money. Requests for proposals can now be made on the next phase of construction.

The master plan for the acreage is more on the scale of something a state might undertake rather than a township. In response to this comment, Supervisor Kelly Smith said, "Over time I think a lot of it will happen. We are working on grants-matching programs. I'm still exited about the expansion of the park as a whole. We are making headway on the things that were identified in the plan. We are also chipping away at projects with environmental restoration to native plants."

accessible walkway at Pere Marquette Conservation Park Community Access (photo by jhy)

The Community Access site on the north side of the river opened in 2024. It received heavy usage this year, and is an outstanding example of the quality of the plan and its execution that the township is following.

Call PM township 231-845-1277

See the PM Township Park Master Plan

See the Mason County Press article Pere Marquette Conservation Park holds grand opening

See a news article in the Ludington Daily News

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

TART Trail Improvements Open

new roundabout (photo from Elmer's Concrete)

compiled from several sources

On October 31, the ribbon cutting for a revitalized section of the TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) Trail was officially opened.

Begun in the early spring of 2025, the large-scale project involved rebuilding 2.2 miles of M-72 (Grandview Parkway), from US-31/M-37 (Division Street) to M-22, and also 1.2 miles of M-22 (Bay Shore Drive) from M-72.

The new intersection is a roundabout, which includes a HAWK (High intensity Activated crossWalK) on M-22 to more safely guide walkers and cyclists.

The ribbon cutting, Friday, was hosted by Elmwood Township. The entire project by the Michigan Department of Transportation cost $25.8 million.

TART comments, "With this major investment, we welcome a new multi-modal pathway along the east side from Division Street to Cherry Bend Road. Thank you so much to our local, state, and national partners and advocates."



See TART trails

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

Phase 3 Boyne City- Charlevoix Trail to Open Nov 21

Boyne City- Charlevoix Trail (photo from Top of Michigan Trails Council)

a news release of Top of Michigan Trails Council

A ribbon cutting will officially open Phase 3 of the Boyne City-Charlevoix Trail on Friday, Nov. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Horton Bay Community Church, 4961 Boyne City Road, in Horton Bay. The event will feature a few guest speakers and light refreshments.

Workers completed the 2.6-mile segment in early spring. The new pavement extends from North Springwater Beach Road (the Evangeline/Bay Township line) and continues to Horton Bay. The trail is multi-use and non-motorized.

The Charlevoix County Trail Team is taking the lead in tackling the first steps needed to complete Phases 4 and 5, which they hope can be rolled into one final project, instead of two.

See Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail

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

Benzie County Approves Use Ordinance

Point Betsie Lighthouse (photo by jhy)

from an article in the Record-Patriot Benzie County Approves New Rules for Public Property

Benzie County recently approved regulations which will apply on county-owned land. This is being done, not to severely limit what people can do, but because there have been no regulations in place.

Recreation properties covered include the Railroad Point Natural Area, Point Betsie Lighthouse, Zada Price Park and the Betsie Valley Trail (with the exception of a short portion which is used through an easement with the owner).

The "new" rules make sense to protect all users. The ordinance prohibits dumping trash or burning garbage on county property and building fires outside designated areas. It also bans smoking or vaping near county buildings and using any marijuana products on county-owned property, including parks. Camping outside approved areas, loud noise and discharging fireworks and firearms are prohibited.

State marijuana laws supercede county ones where applicable.

One location of particular note might be a Point Betsie Lighthouse where the county owns to the high water line. Thus, campfires on the lower beach are not prohibited by the county.

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 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

**********

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

**********

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

**********

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

**********

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

Manton School Seeks Land Swap for Outdoor Education

typical Wexford County forest (photo by jhy)

from a news report of Up North Live

The Manton School District would like to increase its outdoor educational opportunities, and they own 160 acres of land near Long Lake about five miles south of Manton. This has belonged to the district since the 1940s. However, the land is heavily wooded, and not ideal for an outdoor education program.

The district is proposing a land swap with the DNR for a piece that is closer to the school, already has some open areas, and better vehicle access. It would be a place where an outdoor education program could flourish.

Superintendent Len Morrow said, "That's our desire. We live in a beautiful part of the world, beautiful part of our country, and there are a lot of natural resources that are around us that we don't make enough use of,” Morrow said. “We really want to provide more of an education for our kids about what's around us.”

This proposal is in the initial stages. There would be no cost to taxpayers if it succeeds.

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

Old Grade Trail Needs Work

unnamed creek on Old Grade Trail (photo by jhy)

written by JHY

The Trail at Old Grade Campground Near Peacock Partially Obliterated

Just north of 4-Mile Road and the Little Manistee River in Lake County, MI, is the Old Grade Campground, within the Manistee National Forest. As a typical NF Campground, it is open from about mid-May until mid-October.

The campground is named for the fact that the main road is a former railroad grade. A portion of a logging spur of the Manistee and Luther Railroad ran east-west and crossed the river near the western end of the campground. This straight and level berm makes a great vehicular road.

On the north side of the road is a loop trail of about 1.7 miles. It is roughly triangular with a fairly straight leg up the east side. Then the trail turns west into the woods and loops back toward the campground road. The bottom leg of the triangle parallels the road to connect back to the start.

Currently, the east portion is wide and clear. There are occasional blue diamond blazes. The turn to the west is marked, but would be easy to miss. The treadway is not clear at all, and blazes are too far apart. Using electronic aid, I managed to find the narrow and unmaintained west side of the triangle. Most of it could be followed, but it would be a challenge for novice hikers. It re-enters the campground behind one of the vault toilets.

Worst of all, the southern portion that parallels the road is in terrible shape with many downed trees. This is unfortunate, since it's closest to the campsites and would be a nice walk for families.

The east leg can be hiked as an out-and-back. The west leg can easily be followed to where the small creek flows into the Little Manistee River without problem.

During the part of the year when the campground is closed and gated, you can park outside the gate and walk in, but this will add a quarter-mile to your hike in each direction.

The Forest Service has an investment in this trail with several bridges, and a number of interpretive signs. Hopefully, the treadway will be cleaned up in spring of 2026. Perhaps they would be willing to accept volunteer help for this endeavor.

The campground has numerous sites and latrines.

This site has not yet been added to the GOTC website. See Huron-Manistee Forest Old Grade Campground page

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