Located near the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore in Maple City, MI, is the remote and serene Palmer Woods forest. Managed by the Leelanau Conservancy, this 1,155-acre protected forest offers free access to skiers, snowshoers, and fat-tire bikers. The 10-mile cross-country ski trail system winds through a mix of Maple, Cherry, and Hemlock trees, providing a peaceful outdoor escape.
Skiers can enjoy the flat-to-gently rolling Price Valley Trail, which leads to the Fern Garden and Darwin Road. The Darwin Loop Trail offers another scenic route, showcasing the Sugar Loaf Old Golf Course. For fat-tire bikers, two beginner mountain biking trails have been groomed for winter use, while snowshoers are welcome on the remaining 21 miles of ungroomed trails.
Neighboring Palmer Woods is the Krumwiede Forest Reserve, offering a rugged off-trail experience for snowshoers. With clear trail directions and amenities at the trailhead, visitors can easily navigate the preserve’s offerings.
To experience the beauty of Palmer Woods, join the Leelanau Conservancy on guided cross-country ski trips and explore the Lighthouse West Natural Area at the very tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. For those planning a trip to the area, accommodations near Traverse City are readily available.
For more information on Palmer Woods and the Leelanau Conservancy’s environmental preservation efforts, visit their website. Stay updated on upcoming events through their Facebook page. Whether you’re a skier, biker, or hiker, Palmer Woods offers a tranquil natural retreat in Northern Michigan.
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