Hiawatha Forest Southern Trail
The Hiawatha Forest Southern Trail at Hiawatha Forest Open Space in Grand Haven, Michigan is an easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail that features a beautiful pine forest, a tiny pond, and runs parallel with the Hiawatha Forest Main Trail.This short but easy hike leads out to the middle of the Eastern section of the Hiawatha Forest Open Space. Hikers will meander their way through the forest, heading north and taking a couple of turns before the trail heads west, out to a small pond.
Once at the pond, hikers can take in the views before making their way back to parking. Alternatively, hikers can also connect to the Hiawatha Forest Main Trail from this trail as well; however, no trail junction is shown on the park map.
Amenities & Activities
- Small parking areas and information kiosk
- Off-trail hiking and cross-country skiing
- Dogs are allowed on or off leash
- Open to hunting per DNR Laws. More information
5am to 10pm
Parking
Hikers can find parking at the coordinates provided. The parking area is not plowed in winter, though local residents and hunters tend take care of this themselves in the snowy months.
Pets
Dogs are allowed on and off-leash here.
Hunting
Hunting is permitted here, so hikers should wear blaze orange during hunting season.
About the Park
The Hiawatha Forest Open Space is in Grand Haven Township and administered by Ottawa County Parks and Recreation. The site contains two plots totaling 365 acres of hardwood and red pine plantations. The trail system is very rudimentary and unmarked and hikers are permitted to go off trail.
