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Welcome to Grass River Natural Area

A Northern Michigan Haven for Plant and Animal Life

 

Nestled in the hills of Antrim County in Michigan's northwest corner of the lower peninsula (see map), the Grass River Natural Area (GRNA) encompasses lakes, a meandering river, rushing streams and crystal clear creeks — a haven for plant and animal life, including both rare and endangered species. This natural eco-guardian project lies midway on the renowned Chain of Lakes waterway, a connector of Torch and Clam lakes, and Lake Bellaire. Grass River Natural Area is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. Stop by to see what's happening at the Natural Area, peruse the informative displays, and browse the bookstore.

Grass River Shiver Snowshoe Race and Winterfest

Saturday January 21, 2012. Snowshoe race registration is at 9:00am. Race starts at 10:00am. 5k and 10k course. If no snow, bring race shoes for a trail race. Registration is $15 in advance and includes a tote bag and water bottle. On race day, registration is $20 and includes a water bottle. Prizes for male and female winner in each race. Free fun run for children and families. Click the "Pay Now" button to sign-up online or click here to read the flyer!

Winterfest is a free family event from 11am-3pm following the snowshoe race. There will be activities including games and crafts. Everyone is invited to participate in a soup tasting from 11am-1pm. The following area restaurants will be providing soup for you to taste: Alden Bar, Blue Pelican, Java Jones, Lunch Box, Shanty Creek, Short's, Shirley's Cafe and the Wild Onion.

New Grass River Center Winter Hours and Classes

From January through March, the new Grass River Center will be open on Saturday and Sundays from 10am-4pm. Naturalists will be available to answer questions and take you on a guided hike. The natural area has groomed cross country ski trails for outdoor family fun. Following are our winter classes. All classes below are $5.

January: Tracking Class

January 15: 1:00 pm  Tracking class at Grass River Natural Area. Winter is the perfect time to put on your detective hat and follow some animal tracks. This class will introduce you to who is out and about Grass River in winter.

February: “Owl Month” The Owls are nesting at GRNA. Drop in to dissect an owl pellet.

February 4, 7:00 pm: Moonlight Owl Calling Adventure

February 18, 1:00 pm: “All about Owls” Learn what’s fact and what’s fiction about this unique group of birds.

March: "Astronomy Month." Drop-in daytime astronomy activities will teach about our solar system.

March 10, 7:00 pm: “Fireside Full Moon” Songs, stories and a moonlit hike.

March 17, 10:00 am: “GLOBE at Night” Training Workshop: Light pollution can affect energy consumption, wildlife and health. The GLOBE at Night program is an international citizen-science campaign to raise public awareness of the impact of light pollution. Learn how you can be involved.

March 31, 10:00 am: Build a bluebird house in time for the birds’ April return.

 

Education

Educational classes for children, adults and school groups, emphasizing the environment and water and land protection are at the core of the popular outdoor curriculum. A network of trails with observation platforms and boardwalks traverse an educational area providing easy access to upland, wetland and aquatic habitats. A portion of this seven mile system is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

About GRNA

Grass River Natural Area is publicly owned and managed by a local volunteer board of directors dedicated to water and land protection and environmental education. Visitors are welcome year-round from dawn 'til dusk. GRNA is free to visitors, who are encouraged in return to become members, volunteers and contributors.

Check out our 2011 class schedule to see examples of the kinds of classes we offer--and check this website later for our 2012 schedule, which is now in the works. Many "FREE" classes are also available for adults and kids, plus many other special events!

Photography—Participants in classes, on pontoon trips, and other GRNA sponsored events may be photographed for the educational and promotional purposes of Grass River Natural Area.

Pets (small domestic animals) are allowed ONLY on the Railroad Grade and Algonquin Trail provided the animal is on a leash or otherwise under the immediate control of the owner.

Donations to Grass River Natural Area can be made by clicking the donate button on the left or by mailing to PO Box 231, Bellaire MI 49615, or calling 231-533-8314.