Offield Family Viewlands — Attraction in Little Traverse Township

Gorgeous place. Will return for night sky gazing. From the web: Offield Family Viewlands Working Forest Reserve Size 280 acres

Land Description From the driveway's top, the trails follow old golf cart paths that meander throughout the property. Beautiful old trees, winding paths, and breathtaking views are the highlighted features of this property. Scenic views of Little Traverse Bay and the Inland Waterway are available from different locations along the trails. The land is an excellent location for night sky viewing. In 2022, a reflection labyrinth was constructed, with a barrier free path leading to it from the lower parking area.

Trail Description More than 4.5 miles total with some very steep elevations follow the old golf cart paths. In 2024, 5.2 miles of flow track were created. These new trails are open for biking AND hiking (see map below). The flow track is also open for Class I e-bikes.

History Formerly known as the Little Traverse Bay Golf Club, this property was an active golf course through the 2019 season. In early 2020, it was purchased by an investor who then agreed to sell it to Little Traverse Conservancy to ensure its long-term protection. This move was made possible because most of the purchase price was provided by the Offield Family Foundation.

ADDRESS: 995 Hideaway Valley Drive,...

This is my new favorite preserve. There's a variety of terrain from clusters of forest to rolling grassy hills to a still reflective pond. The views from the top are amazing, especially now in the fall. One thing I especially love is that some paths are paved, making this a safer place to hike in regards to ticks. I love walking with my dog here. (I do wish other dog owners would keep theirs leashed though) I'm also a photographer and will definitely be photographing here in the future! A gorgeous place with a variety of trails. I hope they do something fun with the old restaurant building. Maybe a nice cafe/warming hut and nature center for hikers/skiers? Yes please! Update-They have planted black eyed susan flowers on the main hill which is spectacular to see in August. What a...

The Offield Family Viewlands is quickly becoming my favorite Little Traverse Conservancy property. This property used to be a golf course, so there is plenty of parking and the old golf cart trails are used as a walking trail. The views are breathtaking. If you aren’t comfortable walking up/down steep hills, you can still enjoy the property by driving to the parking lot and just taking a few steps to see the views. While there are buildings on the property, none of them are open for things like restrooms or...