Outstanding spot for a beautiful overlook of Lake Michigan and a large boardwalk after the stairs. About three miles of total trails and a great illustration of how dunes naturally act. There are about 400 stairs total I believe half up half down. There is also a nice public beach. There are restrooms at both ends if you need a spot to change for swimming or sunning. During the summer you will need a vehicle pass from Ottawa County Parks which can be purchased at Kirk park nearby(south on lake shore on the right. Cant miss it. Otheewise any manned OC parks entrance station if you want one for the whole summer. If not there is a pay station on site for single day use. No overnight camping. Park closes at 10 at which time they close the gate so make sure you exit in time. If you're in reasonable condition it shouldn't take more than fifteen minutes of walking and stairs to reach the lake. No dogs allowed and this is enforced. Also a great place for runners if you want a challenge. Definitely a hidden gem. Sometimes there is a good amount of ppl there but many times I've been the only one there. Busier during the peak summer months obviously but that is still dependent on day of the week and time of day. Enjoy. Stay on the...
Read moreWow!!! Such an amazing spot. It’s around 0.75 miles to go one way, and a decent amount of stairs but it is SO WORTH IT.
My fiancé and I came here on the 4th of July on a whim during our first visit to Grand Rapids and it couldn’t have been a better choice. The parking was full so we parked up the road at the elementary school and we were there for 6-7 hours without any issues.
The views- gorgeous. The beach- Sandy and wide. The amount of people- way less than any other beach within 30 miles. One thing I will say is that there was a very dangerous piece of rusty rebar sticking out of the sand towards the south end of the beach park.
We lugged a full size canopy and a small folding table and chairs and a cooler and between the two of us it was AWFUL. A veryyyy big workout, but we made it and it was well worth the comfort of spending the whole day there so it’s possible to get setup all nice but we were the only ones with that much shade because it turns the hike into a full on workout.
Overall this spot is...
Read moreRosy Mound Natural Area is a hidden gem that offers a breathtaking experience akin to a mini Sleeping Bear Dunes. The trails are exceptionally well-kept, making for a pleasant and accessible hike through diverse landscapes. As you walk, you're treated to stunning views of sand dunes, lush forests, and serene lakes. The highlight is the climb up the wooden staircases that lead to panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan. The natural beauty of Rosy Mound is truly captivating, with vibrant wildflowers and diverse wildlife enhancing the scenic trails. The park's maintenance is commendable, ensuring a clean and enjoyable environment for visitors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a bit of adventure, Rosy Mound delivers. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking the charm of Michigan's coastal beauty without the crowds of...
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