Grass River Natural Area is one of the easiest, most rewarding outings near Bellaire. Boardwalks float over sedge meadows and cedar wetlands along the Grass River, the slow river that links Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake. It's flat, quiet and beautiful in every season, and it's a favorite with families.
Grass River at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | About 1,490 acres |
| Trails | About 7 miles, including about 1.5 miles of boardwalk |
| Trail hours | Dawn to dusk, every day |
| Location | 6500 Alden Highway (County Road 618), Bellaire, about 6 miles south of town |
| Dogs | Only on the Rail Trail, on a leash |
| Accessible trails | Sedge Meadow and Fern boardwalks |
| Phone | (231) 533-8576 |
Trails and boardwalks
The trails can be strung together or walked as short loops, so it's easy to fit a visit to your group.
- Boardwalk trails: about a mile and a half of boardwalk over wetland and along the river. These are the highlight, with views across the sedge meadows to the Grass River.
- Sedge Meadow and Fern trails: boardwalk loops that work for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Rail Trail: a little over 2 miles of crushed stone along an old rail line. It's the only trail where dogs are allowed, on a leash.
- Footpaths connect the boardwalks through forest.
The Grass River Center
The Grass River Center is the preserve's visitor and education center. It's a good first stop for a trail map and to learn what you might see.
| Season | Center hours |
|---|---|
| May to October | Every day, 10am – 4pm |
| November to April | Saturdays and Sundays, 10am – 4pm |
Trails are open dawn to dusk year-round, even when the center is closed.
What to look for
The preserve protects wetland, river and forest habitat, so you'll see a mix of plants and wildlife: waterbirds and songbirds, turtles and frogs along the boardwalks, and wildflowers in the sedge meadows in late spring and summer. Bring binoculars, and go early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing.
Paddling the Grass River
The Grass River is part of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, and it's one of the calmest paddles in the area. Paddle between Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake and you'll pass right through the natural area. You can also reach the preserve by boat from the Grass River dock.
Visiting by season
- Summer: the busiest time, with the center open daily. Bring bug spray.
- Fall: quiet trails and fall color in early to mid October.
- Winter: snowy boardwalks and very few people. The center is open weekends.
- Spring: migrating birds and the first wildflowers. Trails can be wet, so wear waterproof shoes.
Tips for visiting
- Leave dogs at home unless you'll stay on the Rail Trail.
- Stay on the boardwalks and trails to protect the wetlands.
- Pair it with a paddle on the Grass River or lunch in downtown Bellaire or Alden.
Where to stay
Every home we host is a short drive from Grass River. Alm Haus and Overlook Bellaire both have plenty of room for families.
Alm Haus
A renovated Northwoods chalet 5 minutes from Schuss Mountain, with a hot tub under the pines, triple-queen bunk room, game room and stargazing dome.
Check dates and book direct →
Overlook Bellaire
A 2021 modern home on 10 private acres above Bellaire, looking out over Intermediate Lake. Sauna, cold plunge, hot tub and a game room.
Check dates and book direct →
Northwoods Treehaus
A 1960s A-frame in the pines at Schuss Mountain Resort, with three kings, a stone fireplace, a bunk room with arcade and a treetop hot tub.
Check dates and book direct →Frequently asked questions
Where is Grass River Natural Area?
At 6500 Alden Highway (County Road 618) in Bellaire, about six miles south of downtown, between Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake.
How long are the trails at Grass River?
About 7 miles in total, including about 1.5 miles of boardwalk. They can be split into short loops.
Are dogs allowed at Grass River Natural Area?
Only on the Rail Trail, and only on a leash.
Is Grass River Natural Area wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Sedge Meadow and Fern boardwalk trails work for wheelchairs and strollers.
Does Grass River Natural Area cost anything?
Check grassriver.org for current details on visiting and supporting the preserve.
Sources
Trail, hours and accessibility details from Grass River Natural Area. Checked October 2026.