CLASSES AND PROGRAMS CALENDAR
Scroll down to see full class listings
Programs at Grass River Natural Area are Green, Special Events that are off-site are Blue, Holidays are Brown.
PROGRAM REGISTRATION
Searching for bugs in Finch Creek!
GRNA has a wide selection of classes and events for all ages. All programs listed below are open to the general public. Many programs require preregistration.
Register for the classes below by clicking on the "Add to Cart" button.
Cancellations: Participants that cancel before 24-hours from the start of a program may receive a full refund, unless otherwise noted. Cancellations within 24 hours receive no refund. Programs run rain or shine, but may be cancelled by GRNA in inclement weather. If canceled by GRNA, a notification is posted online and registered participants are notified & receive a full refund.
Questions, book a private program, or problems registering? Contact: James Dake at 231-492-8793 or [email protected] - we can always register you by phone or email as well.
Register for the classes below by clicking on the "Add to Cart" button.
Cancellations: Participants that cancel before 24-hours from the start of a program may receive a full refund, unless otherwise noted. Cancellations within 24 hours receive no refund. Programs run rain or shine, but may be cancelled by GRNA in inclement weather. If canceled by GRNA, a notification is posted online and registered participants are notified & receive a full refund.
Questions, book a private program, or problems registering? Contact: James Dake at 231-492-8793 or [email protected] - we can always register you by phone or email as well.
JUNE
Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
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Nature Journaling - Art on Thursdays
Thursday, June 11, 2026 - 1:00pm (2 hrs), $10 per person We'll take a short walk and make sketches and take notes. Returning inside, we'll add details to add to your personal field guide. All materials supplied. |
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Summer Bird Walk
Saturday June 13, 2026 - 8am (2hrs), $10 per person The birds that call Grass River home are now nesting and singing. Learn to ID birds by song and habitat on a guided bird walk with birding enthusiast Theresa Moore. |
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NMC Sedges of Northern Michigan
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 - 1:00pm (2 hrs) - Register through NMC Extended Education
Sedges are wonderful plants that are often overlooked because they can be difficult to identify. But in some wetland environments they are some of the most numerous and common plants! When you take the time to slow down and look at them closely, you find they are quite attractive and simple to identify. This field class will walk you through a variety of wetland communities as we learn some of the most common sedges you are likely to encounter in northern Michigan. By the end of the class you will walk away with an identification guide and a new-found appreciation for these unique plants. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Sedges of Northern Michigan
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 - 1:00pm (2 hrs) - Register through NMC Extended Education
Sedges are wonderful plants that are often overlooked because they can be difficult to identify. But in some wetland environments they are some of the most numerous and common plants! When you take the time to slow down and look at them closely, you find they are quite attractive and simple to identify. This field class will walk you through a variety of wetland communities as we learn some of the most common sedges you are likely to encounter in northern Michigan. By the end of the class you will walk away with an identification guide and a new-found appreciation for these unique plants. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Sedges of Northern Michigan
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Join us for Riverfest 2026!
Wednesday, June 17th, 5:30 - 9:00 pm Overlook at the Chief Golf Course Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening at Riverfest. Your ticket includes a night of delicious food, live music, and exciting auction experiences. Start with cocktails on the patio, then take your reserved seat for dinner and enjoy the festivities as you bid on incredible items. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement at Riverfest 2026! |
Family Playgroup
Thursday, June 18, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Thursday, June 18, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Kayak Grass River
Friday, June 19, 2026 - 9:30am (2 hrs.), $45 per person - includes tour, kayak, PFD, and paddle for each participant
There is no better way to experience Grass River than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On these morning guided tours, visitors explore Grass River by kayak and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife. Adults and Teens Only. Limited to small groups, must pre-register. Call GRNA to register: 231-492-8793, or email [email protected]. This program meets at the Grass River Center and then walks to the dock to launch kayaks. Kayaks and paddles are provided and ready for you at the dock.
Friday, June 19, 2026 - 9:30am (2 hrs.), $45 per person - includes tour, kayak, PFD, and paddle for each participant
There is no better way to experience Grass River than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On these morning guided tours, visitors explore Grass River by kayak and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife. Adults and Teens Only. Limited to small groups, must pre-register. Call GRNA to register: 231-492-8793, or email [email protected]. This program meets at the Grass River Center and then walks to the dock to launch kayaks. Kayaks and paddles are provided and ready for you at the dock.
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Early Summer Fungus Foray
Saturday, June 20 - 1:00pm (2 hrs), $10 per person Join us as we look for early summer fungi. We'll learn the varieties that grow and how to identify them. |
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Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Botanical Journaling
with Grass River and Two Hoots Studio - at Grass River Natural Area Saturday June 27, 2026 - 1:00pm (3 hrs), $75 for workshop, supplies provided Connect more deeply with the flora of our local ecosystems by starting a botanic journaling practice. Elizabeth Manning's approach to botanical journaling emphasizes observation over perfection. Our time together will begin with a guided wildflower walk, supported by a member of the Grass River Natural Area crew. After the walk, Elizabeth will guide you through simplifying shapes, jotting down observations, and color swatching with watercolor to help you slow down and express what you notice when you really look closely at the natural world. Then Elizabeth will demonstrate some core skills for botanical journaling. After that, you'll be free to wander and find the plants that spark your interest to start your own botanical journal. Elizabeth will provide art supplies for you to borrow, and everyone will receive a mixed media sketch book to continue your botanical journaling. If you have art materials you prefer, you are welcome to bring them. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for hiking. This class will take place outdoors at Grass River Natural Area. This program is in partnership with Crosshatch Center for Art & Ecology. Meet your instructor: Elizabeth Manning lives in Bellaire, MI, where she draws inspiration for her art from the woods and natural places around her home. Her mixed media style embraces techniques from watercolor, pen and ink, calligraphy, and printmaking to tell a story through her art. As a trained and experienced teacher, she fosters students’ confidence and creative potential as they grow as artists. |
JULY
Family Playgroup
Thursday, July 2, 2026 - 10:30am (1.5 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with NMCAA and the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Thursday, July 2, 2026 - 10:30am (1.5 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with NMCAA and the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
NMC Wetland Communities of Northern Michigan
Wednesday July 15, 2026 - 10:00am (2 hrs), register through NMC Extended Ed
Did you know that Michigan has over 70 distinct natural communities? Many of these are wetland communities. Our natural communities are classified by the plants, animals, other organisms, and environmental conditions that make a landscape look the way they do. Have you ever wondered what makes a fen different from a bog, or a swamp different than a thicket? We’ll help you understand the big picture of natural communities and give you a deeper understanding of the northern Michigan landscape.
Register here: Wetland Communities of Northern Michigan - NMC Extended Education & Training
Wednesday July 15, 2026 - 10:00am (2 hrs), register through NMC Extended Ed
Did you know that Michigan has over 70 distinct natural communities? Many of these are wetland communities. Our natural communities are classified by the plants, animals, other organisms, and environmental conditions that make a landscape look the way they do. Have you ever wondered what makes a fen different from a bog, or a swamp different than a thicket? We’ll help you understand the big picture of natural communities and give you a deeper understanding of the northern Michigan landscape.
Register here: Wetland Communities of Northern Michigan - NMC Extended Education & Training
Family Playgroup
Thursday, July 16, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Thursday, July 16, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Kayak Grass River
Friday, July 17, 2026 - 9:30am (2 hrs.), $45 per person - includes tour, kayak, PFD, and paddle for each participant
There is no better way to experience Grass River than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On these morning guided tours, visitors explore Grass River by kayak and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife. Adults and Teens Only. Limited to small groups, must pre-register. Call GRNA to register: 231-492-8793, or email [email protected]. This program meets at the Grass River Center and then walks to the dock to launch kayaks. Kayaks and paddles are provided and ready for you at the dock.
Friday, July 17, 2026 - 9:30am (2 hrs.), $45 per person - includes tour, kayak, PFD, and paddle for each participant
There is no better way to experience Grass River than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On these morning guided tours, visitors explore Grass River by kayak and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife. Adults and Teens Only. Limited to small groups, must pre-register. Call GRNA to register: 231-492-8793, or email [email protected]. This program meets at the Grass River Center and then walks to the dock to launch kayaks. Kayaks and paddles are provided and ready for you at the dock.
Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
NMC Kayak Tour
July 29, 2026 - 9:30am (2.5hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
There is no better way to experience a northern Michigan river than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On this guided tour, students will explore Grass River by kayak and find out about Grass River Natural Area’s conservation efforts, wetland ecology, and Michigan wildlife. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Kayak River Tour (Option 1) - NMC Extended Education & Training
July 29, 2026 - 9:30am (2.5hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
There is no better way to experience a northern Michigan river than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On this guided tour, students will explore Grass River by kayak and find out about Grass River Natural Area’s conservation efforts, wetland ecology, and Michigan wildlife. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Kayak River Tour (Option 1) - NMC Extended Education & Training
NMC Wetland Wildflowers
Friday July 31, 2026 - 10:00am (2hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
The wildflowers of Michigan's wetlands are unique and striking. Take a walk through Grass River's boardwalk trails that give you access to some of the most exquisite wetlands in northern Michigan as we learn the natural history and conservation of these gorgeous flowering plants. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Wetland Wildflowers - NMC Extended Education & Training
Friday July 31, 2026 - 10:00am (2hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
The wildflowers of Michigan's wetlands are unique and striking. Take a walk through Grass River's boardwalk trails that give you access to some of the most exquisite wetlands in northern Michigan as we learn the natural history and conservation of these gorgeous flowering plants. Register through NMC Extended Education at: Wetland Wildflowers - NMC Extended Education & Training
AUGUST
Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Every Tuesday, 10:30am (1.5 hrs), Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted. Free to attend for individuals. Organized groups should book a separate program.
Family Playgroup
Thursday, August 7, 2026 - 10:30am (1.5 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with NMCAA and the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Thursday, August 7, 2026 - 10:30am (1.5 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with NMCAA and the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
NMC Wild Michigan Orchids
Thursday, August 13, 2026 - 1:00pm (2 hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
Orchids are fascinating, beautiful, and rare plants – and northern Michigan has some of the best. Join James Dake of Grass River Natural Area as we learn about these important environmental indicators in an exclusive off-trail expedition to see rare orchids and other amazing plants that grow with them, like carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, in some of the lesser known areas of Grass River. Limited space. Must be able to walk on some uneven and very wet terrain for the hike. Wearing muck boots is recommended. Register through NMC Extended Ed at: Wild Michigan Orchids & Other Rare Plants - NMC Extended Education & Training
Thursday, August 13, 2026 - 1:00pm (2 hrs), Register through NMC Extended Education
Orchids are fascinating, beautiful, and rare plants – and northern Michigan has some of the best. Join James Dake of Grass River Natural Area as we learn about these important environmental indicators in an exclusive off-trail expedition to see rare orchids and other amazing plants that grow with them, like carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, in some of the lesser known areas of Grass River. Limited space. Must be able to walk on some uneven and very wet terrain for the hike. Wearing muck boots is recommended. Register through NMC Extended Ed at: Wild Michigan Orchids & Other Rare Plants - NMC Extended Education & Training
Family Playgroup
Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 10:30am (1 hr), Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors. No registration needed! Offered in partnership with the Great Start Collaborative & Family Coalition of Traverse Bay. Learn more at Playgroups | Early Childhood
If you are interested in a private program or tour, contact [email protected]
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