Maplehurst Natural Area Hike

Join Grand Traverse Hiking Club Chapter of the NCT for a 4.5 mile jaunt around Maplehurst Natural Area, a gorgeous 389-acre property just north of Elk Rapids that was protected by Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy in 2018. Spring wildflowers should still be in bloom there! Optional lunch at Providence Farm Cafe before heading home.

This property was the former home of Camp Maplehurst, a camp from days gone by and much beloved by generations of campers and counselors. We’ll aim to circumnavigate the natural area, hiking through hardwoods, along streams, and over rolling terrain, visiting Torch Lake and Lake Maplehurst along the way.

The trail is relatively smooth and dry, but hilly in spots. Bring good hiking shoes, rain gear if weather threatens, water and a snack (if desired). Ticks and poison ivy shouldn’t present any problem if we stay on the trail. A port-a-jon is available at the trailhead. Check this event page for potential cancellation before attending.

Directions: Drive 3.5 miles north of Elk Rapids on US-31, then turn right (east) onto Winters Road. Follow Winters Road (which eventually becomes Waring Road) for 2.4 miles. Look for the Maplehurst Natural Area sign on your right.
Or navigate to either of the following in your favorite map app:
WMV8+WQ Kewadin, Michigan
44°56'46.4"N 85°20'03.6"W

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This hike is NOT on the North Country National Scenic Trail.

Hike Leader: Sally Dykhuis