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Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 244 Google reviews · Running trail in Traverse City, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve'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.
Nature preserve featuring scenic trails, wildlife sightings, and a public restroom.
What runners say about Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve
“Beautiful park with lots of different activities including so many walking paths.”
“Trails are well maintained and this is an easy trail for families.”
They have really done a nice job removing the Sabin Pond dam and restoring the area to its natural beauty. There are trail maps available, a nice big pavilion with bathrooms and a drinking fountain with really cold water. There is a small building with a green roof, with all kinds of plants growing on top.
Fun trails even in the winter. Nice because all the trees act as a wind break so you can even go when it's blowing and be fairly protected.
Beautiful and good exercise. Big hill kon exit. Be ready for a good workout.
Great program on Raptors. Very informative and interactive. Trails are well maintained and this is an easy trail for families. Ages for us ranged 7-70. Great Pavilion available for events and very helpful volunteers and staff. Fortunate to have such a great organization.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful park with lots of different activities including so many walking paths.”
“There are trail maps available, a nice big pavilion with bathrooms and a drinking fountain with really cold water.”
“There’s adequate parking with an easy walk down to the river.”
“There are trail maps available, a nice big pavilion with bathrooms and a drinking fountain with really cold water.”
Plan your run at Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Websitenatureiscalling.org
- Phone(231) 941-0960
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–11 PM |
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.
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