For some folks, birdwatching is a way of life. Grabbing a pair of binoculars and sitting quietly in the cool morning air while keeping your eyes peeled for new species is just so relaxing and fulfilling. Luckily for birders in the Fenton, MI area, there are plenty of spots nearby where they can indulge their passion. 1. Rose Lake Wildlife Area This beautiful nature preserve spreads over nearly 450 acres of grassland and is specifically designed to support as many animal species as possible. Sitting in the center of the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative area, visitors are practically guaranteed to see flocks of these colorful and noisy birds, though there are plenty of other species in the area. Wander the many miles of trails at Rose Lake and you're sure to spot a wide variety of birds making use of the rich grassland habitat and flitting between the oak trees. You'll find this spot in Lansing, MI. A free, gravel parking lot is available, though it's fairly small, so be sure to arrive early to ensure you get a space. more 2. Goll Woods State Nature Preserve A 321-acre preserve packed with wildlife, Goll Woods State Nature Preserve is a real favorite with birders of all stripes. This swampy wood contains a wide variety of feathered friends, including Eastern screech-owls, finches, red-headed woodpeckers, and great horned owls. In spring and fall, a variety of migrants arrive from neotropical climates, meaning there's plenty of variety all year round. Goll Woods is across the state line in Archbold, OH, but with its beautiful scenery and wide range of species, it's well worth the drive. After you've finished birding for the day, why not check out some of the historical sites within the preserve, including the covered bridge and preserved farmstead? 3. Haehnle Sanctuary Haehnle Sanctuary might be the perfect location for bird enthusiasts in Fenton. Just an hour drive from town, it's packed full of different species and has some excellent facilities for those who wish to watch them. The sanctuary is best known for its population of sandhill cranes, while it also plays host to an abundance of other species, including common yellowthroat, woodpeckers, cardinals, and flycatchers. This preserve is located on Seymour Road, northeast of Jackson. Admission is free and trails are open from dawn to dusk. 4. Waterloo Recreation Area This 21,000-acre park is the largest in Michigan. No wonder then that it plays host to so many different bird species. There are plenty of places to settle down with your binoculars, but the DTE Green Loop is one of the best, offering great views of local woodland where you could see birds like the wood thrush and cerulean warbler flitting between branches! To get around all these great birding locations and discover your own favorites in the area, you'll need a reliable car. Fly over to Randy Wise Buick GMC today for a great deal on a new or used vehicle. Image via pexels.com.
There's a lot to see and do in Fenton, MI! And for folks who love to spend time outdoors, what could be better than enjoying a little biking? There are a range of fantastic bike paths around the city, with something to suit all ability levels. 1. Creasey Bicentennial Park Trail This 2.7-mile trail is a great way to enjoy views of one of the area's best-loved parks. A mixed concrete and boardwalk path, stretching for just under 3 miles, it's another great route for inexperienced cyclists. Plenty of parking is available in the park's lot, along with restroom facilities. The park is also a great spot for a picnic, so why not work up an appetite with a long ride, then treat yourself to a few yummy bites in the sunshine? more 2. Flint River Trail What could be better than a ride along the river? The Flint River Trail offers folks the chance to ride on both sides of the river, taking in scenic views of the river and the many birds that make their home around it. The path takes in lots of suburban areas and city parks, offering good connections to a variety of businesses and amenities as well as a peaceful, scenic ride. Find the access point in the downtown area near the Flint campus of the University of Michigan. The path runs for several miles, passing by Stepping Stones Falls and ending at Bluebell Beach 3. Genesee Valley Trail Genesee Valley Trail is a pleasant path running for several miles, from Flint Township Park to the plaza in Carriage Town. The smooth concrete trail features minimal elevation and offers excellent views of woodlands, suburbs, and pleasant, grassy vistas. Please note, this is a multi-use trail and can get a little busy with hikers on warm days, weekends, and holidays. If you wish to extend your ride, you can find links to other pathways, including the Swartz Creek Trail and the Flint River Trail. 4. George Atkin Jr. Recreational Trail One of the most scenic cycling locations in the area, George Atkin Jr. Recreational Trail boasts a treasure trove of gorgeous woodland surroundings. Riders will pass by mixed hardwood forest, pleasant parklands, and ponds. It's a great place to spot wildlife, with plenty of deer and birds in the area. Access is available at a variety of trailheads in the city of Clio. For parking, use Clio City Park. 5. Riverview Trail Another great waterside path, Riverview Trail runs for a mile and a half of premier waterfront land. There's a large bridge over Cole Creek, as well as another bridge over the Flint River, offering the chance to take in even more excellent riverside views. The path is smooth and wide, suitable for all abilities, and perfect for a family ride. With its short length and pleasant scenery, it's a great place to bring the kids! Find the trailhead in Flushing, near the main street bridge. Need a reliable way to get around all these spots and discover more great places to enjoy a cycle? Come on down to Randy Wise Buick GMC located in Fenton, MI for a great deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle! Image via pexels.com.
Known for its history as a major railroad hub in the geographical center of the state, the city of Fenton, MI, has a population of about 11,375. While the city itself might not have many green areas, its location makes it an excellent spot to check out different hiking trails, nature reserves, state parks, and other sites where you can practice outdoor activities with your friends or family, or simply relax and disconnect from the routine. 1. Holly State Recreation Area Featuring 35 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, Holly State Recreation area is a popular recreation spot spanning almost 8,000 acres in Groveland Township. The main path, known as Shields Trail, has a total length of 4.7 miles and features intermediate to difficult terrain. Besides hiking, this beautiful recreation area welcomes visitors with a vast array of outdoor sports and activities, including camping, fishing, snowmobiling, boating, and mountain biking. Holly State Recreation Area is under 9 miles and 14 minutes away from Fenton so get out there today! more 2. Seven Lakes State Park Located less than 4 miles slightly northeast of downtown Fenton, Seven Lakes State Park is another great hiking destination featuring an area of almost 1,500 miles in the middle of Oakland County. The main path, known as Green Trail Loop, passes through beautiful hardwood forests and along the shores of the different lakes. For those looking for a challenge, this path can be combined with the Dickinson Nature Trail for a longer hike. Getting to the main entrance of Seven Lakes State Park from the Fenton city center takes about 10 minutes by car, driving along Main Street. Established in 1971 and administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, it is not only a great hiking spot but a perfect destination for a weekend escape. Some other popular activities here include fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking, hunting, and mountain biking. 3. Sleepy Hollow State Park Spanning an area of almost 2,700 acres, Sleepy Hollow State Park is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers, featuring 11 miles of trails going through lush forests and along the shores of Lake Ovid. This state park is located about 45 miles west of downtown Fenton, making it possible to reach it in about an hour by car. The main path for hikers in this beautiful nature reserve is the Sleepy Hollow Trail, which has a total length of about 8.5 miles and passes through lush forests, the Little Maple River, and some beautiful viewpoints of Lake Ovid. Whether you are looking for a place to go on a challenging hike or a spot for a relaxing morning walk, Sleepy Hollow State Park is always a great idea. Other popular activities include picnicking, snowmobiling, and wildlife watching. Going on a hiking adventure with your friends is always better in a new, comfortable, and reliable car. Before you check out any of these spots, make sure to visit us at Randy Wise Buick GMC in Fenton, MI and take a look at the new Buick and GMC models we have on sale at the best prices in town. Image via pexels.com.
