Great Marsh Trail

Great Marsh Trail is an easy, almost level 1.3-mile lollipop from the south parking lot, with a short out-and-back spur to an observation deck. Allow about one hour. This is a good pick for a gentle wetland walk and birdwatching, not for a steep climb or a high dune view.

From the south lot, head north to the junction. Take the right-hand loop and return to that junction; then follow the other branch to the observation deck and retrace it. From the junction, follow the trail back to the lot. The loop and deck spur share this junction, so check the trail map before starting. A separate paved approach from the north lot reaches the overlook, but it is not the same hike.

The trail is mostly packed dirt and grass with some gravel and only about 9 feet of reported elevation gain. After rain, low sections can become very muddy and slippery. Leave time to stop at the deck and look across the marsh; bird activity changes with the season, so treat sightings as a bonus rather than a promise.

Great Marsh is the largest interdunal wetland in the Lake Michigan watershed. Much of it was drained for farming and development in the early 1900s, and restoration of this section began in 1998. Fens, sedge meadows and wet prairies now help filter water and provide habitat for breeding and migrating birds. Watch the marsh for waterfowl and herons, especially during migration.

The main trailhead is the gravel South Lot on Broadway Avenue, north of U.S. 12. There are no restrooms or potable water at the trail lots, and a park entrance pass is required. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet. The main trail is not wheelchair accessible; a separate paved route from the north lot leads to an accessible marsh overlook.