Kalkaska County Gems

Favorite Places and Spaces, from Mary Janik:

When I chose to make Kalkaska County my home it was because of all the natural resources and recreational opportunities that were readily available. I am someone who needs to get outside in the fresh air and sunshine for a daily walk, preferably in a beautiful unspoiled place. There are so many nearby, but here are a few of my favorites, all protected by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (Descriptions courtesy gtrlc.org).

Seven Bridges: Protected & Managed by The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, owned by the State of Michigan.

Once slated for subdivision, this amazing place is now a jewel for all to enjoy. Known for its beautiful rustic bridges with over a mile of frontage on the Rapid River, this property is truly enchanting. A

	gtrlc.org

trail and boardwalk wander through cedar trees to the bridges spanning the Rapid River and many of the tributaries that braid together here. The remains of a sawmill built in 1882 can still be seen when crossing the first three bridges. Despite its name, only four bridges exist today. There are 2 loop hikes which are serene and beautiful and typically not heavily used.

South Boardman Preserve: Protected by The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, owned & managed by Boardman Township.

Visitors to this property will find hiking trails, bridges over creeks and rivers, a viewing platform and interpretive signs marking tree species. The path wanders through many landscapes including Hemlock Forest, Red Pine Plantation and Cedar Swamp. Its a beautiful property encompassing Boardman River headwaters.

Skegemog Wildlife Area: Protected & Managed by The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, owned by the State of Michigan.

Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area (SLWA), encompassing much of the southern end of Skegemog Lake, offers a wealth of non-motorized outdoor recreation opportunities within a uniquely diverse property teeming with plant and animal life.

Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family Preserve.

Open to the Public on July 25th with a Preservation Celebration and Property Grand Opening. 

Rarely does the Conservancy have the opportunity to protect a place a special as the former Camp Tapico in central Kalkaska County. This property, owned and operated by the Boy Scouts for about 80 years, spans an impressive 1,288 acres and includes a wide variety of high-quality wildlife habitat. Of particular interest is the near complete lack of invasive species, making this property extremely valuable from a conservation standpoint.

In addition to about a mile of the north branch of the Manistee River, this property includes its own 130-acre spring-fed lake, multiple types of wetland habitat and several kettle-hole ponds. The property supports a large number of species, including loons, bald eagles, smooth green snakes and other species of special concern.