Fishing

More Than A Walk In The Woods: Graham Lakes Trail

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

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Bald Mountain State Recreation Area is a 4,637-acre multi-use wildland managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR describes the landscape accurately with their frequently used sentence of, “The Park contains some of the steepest hills and most rugged terrain in southeast Michigan and features fifteen miles of marked hiking trails.” I knew that. I thought I knew all of the Bald Mountain State Recreation Area trails very well. I did not. Somehow, in all my many adventures at Bald Mountain, I missed four miles of forested trail that circles West Graham Lake, East Graham Lake, and hidden vernal ponds. As John Muir wrote, and I have shared before, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Once again his words were accurate, and they will be for you as well, if you walk slowly, stop often, look and listen. Continue reading →

Seven Lakes State Park at the Dawn of Summer

Oakland County, MI Government 1 Comment

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

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Seven Lakes State Park remains a well-kept secret for many residents of Oakland County. That is a shame, for this 1,432 acre gem of diverse topography offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Located in the northwestern corner of our county, Seven Lakes has something for everyone at the dawn of summer. There is also a small mystery spawned by this park’s name. Sharp-eyed park visitors study the map, and then pause. Where is the seventh lake? Hint: Don’t look for it.

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OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS: A Ticket to Summer Fun

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

 

“Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.” John Lubbock’s words enrich the days of summer as the Oakland County Parks, encompassing nearly 7,000 acres, bustle with nature-rich fun. Experienced adventurers and first-time visitors have opportunities to explore 70 miles of trails that meander through glacially sculpted landscapes of hills, lakes and meadows. Some trails are flat and paved, perfect for baby strollers or grandparents with walkers. Others embrace rough, hilly terrain that gets the heart pounding, strengthens leg muscles and sets the mind to dreaming of the Appalachian Trail. Of course, there are also equestrian friendly trails, bike trails and trails where one can walk in near solitude early in the day. Continue reading →