Please Note: We are pleased to offer this schedule of outings at no charge led by our knowledgeable volunteer docents. Do dress according to weather. So that we may provide the best experience possible and be fully prepared, we require (and appreciate!) advanced registration by calling 231-256-9665. Directions (written or Google map): click here.Most hikes last around two hours unless otherwise noted.If your schedule does not mesh with ours, or you have a special event such as a family reunion or wedding, our docents may be available to lead groups of five or more if given two week’s notice to plan. School groups also may be accommodated with enough notice. If you have a question about a hike or want to register for a weekend hike after the close of business on Friday, please contact the docent who is leading the hike.

Workbee Basics: Workbees are fun and a great way to get exercise, fresh air and meet new people. They generally take place every other Wednesday through the summer. Please bring a water bottle, sunscreen and bug spray along. Directions (written or Google map): click here. If you have questions about the planned work or want to learn more about upcoming stewardship volunteer opportunities, email Fields Ratliff at fratliff@theconservancy.com or call 231-256-9665.

Please note: there are no toilet facilities at most Conservancy natural areas.

Dog Policy at Natural Areas and Preserves

While you and your dog are welcome to explore our Conservancy trails, please do NOT bring dogs to a scheduled docent-led hike. This will keep your dog safe at home during Conservancy scheduled hikes, and keep hike attendees and wildlife safe too. Our hikes aim to show attendees bird and wildlife that are often scared off by the scent and sounds of dogs. (Service dogs are welcome at any time.) We occasionally offer a special hike that includes pets. When those opportunities are offered, or if you visit on your own please keep your pet on a leash and pick up waste.

Please note there are no hikes at our natural areas during hunting season 

December

Thursday, December 29th  10am
Hike at Kehl Lake Natural Area

Join Docents Judy Smart and Marsha Buehler for a snowshoe walk through the beautiful quiet of Winter. We always have fun on this walk which is not difficult. Rosy cheeks are guaranteed!

Saturday, December 31st  10am
Hike at Houdek Dunes Natural Area

Join Docents Jack Schultz. Ann McInnis, Holly Pharmer. on one of our most popular winter hikes at our largest natural area. Explore the wooded and open spaces at Houdek Dunes, look for signs of animal life, and enjoy the crisp winter air. If you own snowshoes, and the snow is deep, please bring them and meet near the kiosk.

January

Saturday January 14th 1pm
Winter Mushrooming and More at Kehl Lake Natural Area

Are there mushrooms in winter? What do animals and other living things do to survive and thrive? Why do we even have Winter? Join mushroom expert Ed Reinert and Docents Ann McInnis and Holly Pharmer to explore or answers to these questions and more. If you own snowshoes, and the snow is deep, please bring them and meet near the kiosk.

Saturday January 28th 10am
Tracks and Trails at Houdek Dunes Natural Area

Have you gotten your Vitamin G this winter? Find out how this can improve your health while at the same time discover clues that suggest the strategies used by wildlife to successfully manage their winter living. Explore with docents Ann McInnis, Ed Arnfield, and Judy Smart as they search for tracks and trails, browse and scats and much more that all contribute to the wildlife’s winter story at this wonderful former-ice-contact natural area. If you own snowshoes, and the snow is deep, please bring them and meet near the kiosk.

February

Saturday, February 4th    1pm
Hike at DeYoung Natural Area on Cedar Lake    

Join docents Dave Amos and Lou Ricord on a winter walk through time.  The DeYoung hike offers a gentle walk (or snowshoe) around the DeYoung property and a tour of the 1860 farm house and lower barn.  The property is a reflection of the changing times from the inception of Traverse City to now with a rare opportunity to see inside those buildings we pass when using the Leelanau trail.  Dress warmly and enjoy an interesting part of our local history.
 

February 18th 10am
Hike at Chippewa Run Natural Area    

Join docents Jack Schultz and Lou Ricord at the edge of Empire as we explore what Chippewa Run has to offer in the winter. It's probably best to come with your own snowshoes unless there is only a light covering of snow. We will visit the old apple orchard, the conifer plantings, and open fields as well as the creek (Chippewa Run) as it winds its way through this diverse property. In winter, because our parking area is not regularly plowed, we choose to meet for docent led hikes at the recycling bins in Empire. As you come in to town, turn onto LaCore Street as if heading toward the Empire Museum. Then turn right on Fisher Street and follow signs to the recycling bins. Park in this area where your docent will meet you to begin the hike.

Sunday February 19th 2pm
Signs of Spring at Lighthouse West

Does wildlife know something we don’t? Is there a reason for birds to start practicing a different song? Why are trees and wildlife already stirring with renewed activity? How did the retreating glaciers contribute to this tip-of-Leelanau’s importance as an increasingly well known birding site? Join docents Ann McInnis, Sharon Oriel, Ed Arnfied and guest birder Ed Ketterer and as they explore this amazing place.