Gilkey Trails — Attraction in Gun Plain Charter Township

The Gilkey Lab is a great option for a very nice short hike. Located right behind Gilkey Elementary, you can gain access to the trail either by the overlook to the pond or behind the soccer field. I prefer the pond access as it runs parallel with the Kalamazoo River and splits off into two separate trails. Whichever trail you take, all of them lead to the same place, where you go over several bridges to the Plainwell Swell - a former dam. I like to just lay on the concrete slab next to the dam and crack open a book since the sounds of rushing water and nature are an all surrounding glee. The trail is usually isolated with maybe one or two other groups. I've never seen animals here other than your usual backyard birds and the occasional person walking their dog. Nevertheless, Gilkey Lab is a very pleasurable experience for those looking for short isolated walks or to just get out of the city for a...

Behind Gilkey Elementary, these are some pretty nice trail that people walk on and hang out. I've seen people walk alone, in groups, and with dogs. The trail lead you to the Kalamazoo River where (if you're not weary of the potential pollution) you can wade or swim in the usually calm portion of the river. If you live nearby and you're looking for a more isolated area to walk than the streets then you're in luck,...

Great walking trail in the summer, or evenings in the spring/fall. I struggled to find it at first. Best parking I found was actually behind the school. The yellow sign across the lawn (shown in picture) marks the start of the trail. My wife and I could walk side by side most of the way, and trail was decently groomed. Would...