Blossoms, Bridges, and River Views: Where to hit the trails this spring in Mt. Pleasant

Mt. Pleasant is home to an abundance of trail systems for enjoyable recreation opportunities. And at the first sign of the spring season, attendance to these trails picks up as fast as the buds start to bloom. 

When considering which trails to head out and hike first, Isabella County Parks & Recreation and the City of Mt. Pleasant each has a recommendation in their trails system that stands out. 

Alexis Hansen, director of Parks & Recreation at Isabella County, says Deerfield Park’s “buds, blossoms and wildflowers are really popping and it is so colorful!”

“The City of Mt. Pleasant’s park system has something for everyone,” says Darcy Orlik, director of public relations at the City of Mt. Pleasant, pointing out Island Park’s diversity of options makes it a main attraction.

Courtesy Alexis Hansen / Isabella County
Deerfield Park | 2425 W. Remus Rd., Mt. Pleasant

Deerfield Nature Park has eight miles of trails throughout its over 591 acres of land—where many hiking and biking routes are along the Chippewa River. Bridges, disc golfing, kayak launching, and camping are often explored here. 

“With the numerous different segments of trail within the park it is possible to constantly create new adventures,” says Alexis Hansen, director of Parks & Recreation at Isabella County. “Anything from a quick, gentle walk to decompress, to a strenuous hike that gets your blood pumping is available at Deerfield.”

Here are Hansen’s top trails to explore at Deerfield Park.

Courtesy Alexis Hansen / Isabella County
Wildwood Path to River Trail
“Cross the iconic suspension bridge to wind your way through hardwoods, enjoy the cool shade of cedar trees in the swampy forest, climb back to mixed hardwoods and pine stands and then wind your way back along the bluff of the Chippewa River. Taking wildwood Path to River trail is a great way to get a true taste of all the beautiful natural elements Deerfield has to offer. You’ll also pass nearby some of the most iconic locations throughout the park on this route. This is a moderately strenuous hike, to add to the exertion, include the steep loop of the Goshawk Trail to your route, but look out for mountain bikers. To reduce the overall distance, take one of the multiple crossover trails to shorten the loop.” - Alexis Hansen

 
River Loop to Covered Bridge Trail
“Set out from the trailhead toward the Lewis Pontiac Bridge, spanning the river and leading you into the woods. Hiking through the trees along the riverbank, eventually you will intersect with the river again. Cross the river via the beautiful covered bridge and then loop around an open, airy trail that surrounds a marsh on the west side of the river. This is an easy to moderately strenuous hike.” - Alexis Hansen

Courtesy Alexis Hansen / Isabella County 
River Loop to Swinging Bridge
“Take the River Trail past the campground to a narrow, and often muddy, side trail leading to the second swinging bridge. After crossing the bridge and taking in the beautiful views in either direction, turn left to walk to the Memorial Forest Recreation Area where the trail will end in a small loop before you’ll turn back toward the bridge to return the way you came. This is a moderately strenuous hike.” - Alexis Hansen

Courtesy Steve Jessmore / City of Mt. Pleasant
Island Park | 331 Main Street, Mt. Pleasant

Located on the north end of downtown Mt. Pleasant, 50-acre Island Park has multiple facilities, trails, and activities available. From pickleball and volleyball courts to playground equipment and a kid’s spray park, the community can turn their walk in the park into a full-day adventure.

“Individuals can explore the trails and enjoy river views,” says Darcy Orlik, director of public relations at the City of Mt. Pleasant. 
Courtesy Steve Jessmore / City of Mt. Pleasant
“If you would like a story to accompany your walk, the StoryWalk is featured along the Island Park trail,” she says. Featuring pages from a story book, signs along the trail provide activities to do at each stop. Signs include braille and change every few months. 

“If a workout is what you are looking for, the fitness equipment installed along the Island Park trail can add to your walk or run,” Orlik continues. “If a team sport is what you are looking for, the Island Park pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, and softball fields are at the ready.”

“Concerts at the Island Park Amphitheatre, the Farmers’ Market, and other fun events offer a great source of entertainment,” she shares.

Speaking of fun events, Orlik notes that the public is encouraged to attend the Public Safety Expo and Fun Run at Town Center on May 17. Also this week, new playground equipment at the City’s Horizon and Chipp-a-Waters parks will be installed.