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.

Watch your mailbox!

Our spring fundraising letter should reach you soon. This year we are including a printed version of the class list and other events. If you do not receive a letter and would like to be on our mailing list, please call the GRNA office: (231) 533-8314. And don't forget to send in a donation to help maintain the natural area, operate our new Education Center, and fund our many classes and events. To make a contribution on-line, just click the Donate button on the left.

Recent Events

Grass River volunteers and supporters have already been busy this spring. Photos of the Spring Fling benefit at the Dockside and annual clean-up day are on the News page.

Charitable Giving Seminar

Giving is a complex issue. Charitable giving is as much an art as it is a science. With estate and income tax laws growing more complex, what is the best way to give, not just to Grass River, but to any of the worthwhile causes you believe in? Experts from Old Mission Investment Co. will address this important topic during a special donors’ event on June 15. Click here for more details.

Charity Golf Tournament

The 9th annual Grass River Natural Area and Three Lakes Association Charity Golf Tournament will be held at the beautiful Schuss Mountain course with cocktails and dinner following at Ivan's. All proceeds will benefit equally the education programs of Grass River Natural Area and the Three Lakes Association. Sunday, June 17. Registration at 11:30. Shotgun Start at 1:00. Click here to download registration form or click here to register and pay online.

GRNA Benefit Dance with Switchback

The "Kick-off to the Fourth Dance" in Alden is back again for the second year in a row. Last year's benefit dance with Switchback was a rousing sucess! With almost 300 in attendance and over 3 hours of dancing on the shores of beautiful Torch Lake, not to mention the wonderful beer from Shorts Brewery in Bellaire. On June 30, from 6:00 to 10:00 pm, Switchback and Shorts are back and we will also have food from local growers, served by Jon Sherwin of The Truck Mobile Eatery. Click the "Pay Now" button to order your tickets online.

New Grass River Center Spring Hours

The new Grass River Center is open Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 11-5. Naturalists will be available to answer questions and take you on a guided hike.

Thank you Grass River donors!! Read more...

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.

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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.

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Check out our 2012 Class Schedule to see this year's schedule of classes by age group. Many "FREE" classes are also available for adults and kids, plus many other Special Events and Guided Hikes!

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.