Whaleback Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy — Attraction in Leland Township

Great little hike, entirely uphill climb for the first leg. It seems most people tend to go straight for the view as the path away from it was not nearly as worn after the fork. Birch valley does indeed require a watchful eye to not miss the path bearing off; a side path does take you a bit further down into a valley.

We ran back down after watching the view and that was quite fun, especially in flip flops! My favorite part of the hike, however, was the grass that hung over the path near birch valley and tickled as you...

The trails were established in 1996. The summary of the trails include "spectacular views of Lake Michigan and Manitou Island". But since 1996 there has been so much growth in the forest, the view is becoming obstructed. Many if the birch trees in Birch Valley have been fallen to the ground, and now maple trees prevail. The description definitely needs an update! Great climb for those looking for exercise, and a GREAT place to find woodpeckers. Heavy machinery use nearby is noisy and constant until you pass the...

Lovely little trail! Peaceful and not too many people to be crowded. The lookout is definitely worth the half-ish mile hike (you can add on by taking the loop instead of doing an out an back). The only drawback is that the trails, especially in the actual Whaleback natural area, are a bit overgrown so it can be hard to get past others at times. Luckily, though, not much poison ivy on the sides of the trail and even some...