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Boardman Valley Nature Preserve
4.9 ★★★★★ 43 Google reviews · Running trail in Traverse City, Michigan · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Boardman Valley Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Boardman Valley Nature Preserve
“This is always a beautiful hike and it’s perfect for all seasons.”
This is a flat, easy hike through some lovely meadows and cedar woods between the YMCA and the Grand Traverse Nature Center. If you're going north to south, you'll have to climb a steep hill at the nature center. South of the nature center a hiker has the option between an upper trail and a lower one.
Great biking trail! Beautiful trail along the river with many picnic areas.
This is always a beautiful hike and it’s perfect for all seasons. Early March of 2024 it was a little muddy when thawed out, but manageable. Lots of beaver activity visible and lovely pines!
Absolutely beautiful! Lots of scenic changes to enjoy. Fun with kids and the dogs! Not buggy over Memorial weekend!!
Trail conditions & character
“This is always a beautiful hike and it’s perfect for all seasons.”
“If you're going north to south, you'll have to climb a steep hill at the nature center.”
“south about 1/3 mile from the Keystone Rapids parking lot, you will see the marker for the Boardman River Trail on Hoosier Valley Rd.”
Plan your run at Boardman Valley Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitegarfield-twp.com
- Phone+1 231-941-1620
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Traverse City
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Boardman Lake Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 379 reviews
Paved, shaded lakeside path for biking and strolling, with bridges and benches.
Miller Creek Nature Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 49 reviews
Hiking trails meander through 66 acres of forest, swamps & meadows in a tranquil urban park.
Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 244 reviews
Nature preserve featuring scenic trails, wildlife sightings, and a public restroom.
Hull Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 282 reviews
A relaxing grassy park for picnics, walking and fishing, along with bike paths.
