Hiking

The Grand Lake area has lots of places to take a hike. Some of the hiking trails in the area include:

Besser Natural Area:

The Besser Natural Area is home to one of Michigan’s last few stands of Virgin Pine. A one mile foot trail can be hiked in this area formerly inhabited by the people of the Village of Bell, and some remains of the original buildings can be found. This beautiful area also includes a lagoon and a beach on Lake Huron.

Presque Isle Harbor trail:

This trail begins at the pier and goes through a cedar forest and ends at the Old Presque Isle Lighthouse. The trail portion is free, but if you want to visit the Old Lighthouse, there is an admission charge. Of course, walking the Harbor pier is also available. After your hike you can get an ice cream cone at the Portage or Pizza shop at the Harbor.

Presque Isle Township Park:

Trails can be found on either side of the New Presque Isle Lighthouse. The trails follow the Lake Huron Shoreline. There is an admission charge to climb the Lighthouse tower, but admission to the museum and museum store are free.

Thompson Harbor State Park:

Thompson’s Harbor is a Michigan State Park that encompasses over 5000 acres of undeveloped beach dunes, upland and marsh. It includes unique areas of Lake Huron Sand Dunes and is home to the Dwarf Lake Iris, a rare and endangered plant.

• Three trails can be hiked, ranging from 1.4 to 2.6 miles and covering 7.5 miles of Lake Huron Shoreline. Park your car at the trailhead off of U.S. 23, about 3 miles north of County Road 638.