2015 Chain of Lakes Visitor''s Guidebook Page 10

E L K R A P I D S A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Maple Bay Natural Area

Easily identified in the summer by the acres of sunflowers, Maple Bay
Natural Area sits just south of Elk Rapids along US 31. A short drive down
a gravel path past the farm house, sugar shack, root cellar, and pole
barn takes you to the end of the agricultural fields and the beginning of
the forest. From there, navigate nearly two miles of hiking trails through
luscious woodlands and past endangered species habitats on your way to
beautiful Grand Traverse Bay.

Sand Lakes Quiet Area

Part of the Pere Marquette State Forest, the Sand Lakes Quiet Area is the
perfect place for year-round enjoyment. With hiking, biking, and cross
country ski trails, five marl lakes, and hills covered in oak-pine forests,
there's lots to see and explore on this 2,800 acre preserve. Stay on dry
land to observe the deer, turkeys, and songbirds, or bring your snorkel to
admire the rainbow trout, brook trout, and other aquatic systems of the
marl lakes. Because motorized vehicles are prohibited, you can enjoy the
outdoors as nature intended.

Grass River Natural Area

Founded in the 1960s, the Grass River Natural Area is a haven for
wildlife, including many rare and endangered plants and animals. Located
midway along the Chain of Lakes, it connects Torch and Clam lakes with
Lake Bellaire. Nestled among the lakes, streams, and creeks, Grass River

From wetlands to hiking trails to state game areas, there's no shortage of
parks and natural areas to explore in the Chain of Lakes region. Grab your
boots and your camera and get back in touch with nature at one of these
beautiful locations.

Glacial Hills Pathway and

Natural Area

345 acres, 100 species each of flowers and birds, 20 species of trees,
and 12 distinct habitats, including three wetlands and two hardwood
forests. Located in Forest Home Township, Glacial Hills Pathway and
Natural Area is a key component to protecting the water quality in Torch,
Clam, and Intermediate lakes, as well as protecting the Grass Creek
headwaters. With 28 miles of shared trails, it's the perfect place for
hiking, biking, hunting, cross country skiing, or observing the wildlife,
which include eagles, great-horned owls, and the red-shoulder hawk.

Petobego Natural Area

Located along Angel Road in Whitewater Township, Petobego Natural
Area features 250 acres of vibrant habitats. As part of the Tobeco Creek
watershed, the natural area includes Petobego Pond and Petobego
Marsh, as well as a conifer swamp, northern shrub thicket, agricultural
fields, and successional grasslands. Also in the natural area is the
Petobego State Game Area, providing a quality hunting experience while
preserving non-game wildlife and their habitats.

The Great Outdoors