Local Hikes

Parks & Trails

There are many parks and trails to explore and enjoy in and near Leland…year round!

Parks

  • Leland Village Green: Plan a picnic at our beautiful village park, with extensive gardens and plenty of shade, located on Main Street at the north end of town - owned and maintained by the Leelanau Conservancy.

  • Barthalomew Park (Nedow’s Beach): Public beach and park on North Lake Leelanau with boat launch. picnic area and dock. Also has lifeguard a some times during the summer and swimming lessons. On Pearl St., east of Main Street 7 blocks.

  • Hancock Field: Leland Township and Leland Public School shared sports and recreation complex with public tennis and basketball courts, skate park, baseball, softball and soccer fields, playground and covered picnic area. Directions at link: https://goo.gl/maps/LPjuqJ9uHjc5JQpB7

  • East Leland Park: Located on 641, northeast of Leland, at the northern end of North Lake Leelanau. Picnic tables, boat launch, dock and playground.

  • Schneider’s Beach and Park: Public beach with picnic area on North Lake Leelanau at the end of Popp Road (off M-204), 1.5 miles west of village of Lake Leelanau.

Trails

  • Whaleback Natural Area: This beautiful 40 acre natural area with hiking trail is open to the public. Hike this bluff and claim your reward - a spectacular Lake Michigan view that brings visitors back again and again.

    • About the Trail: When you visit, please realize that the land on both sides of the access trail is private and not open to the public. 1.5 hours, challenging hike, steep access trial to flat 3/4 mile hilltop loop. Info kiosk at trailhead, benches along steep trail. Located off M-22, 1.5 miles south of Leland. Look for the Leelanau Conservancy sign.

  • Houdek Dunes Natural Area: Explore, hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski the trails in this 337 acre natural area.

    • About the trail: Moderate hiking includes sandy trails, stairs, and slopes. Info kiosk at trailhead, benches at ancient maple. Hikes should note that hunting is allowed at Houdek Dunes Natural Area - by permit only. Please use caution when using the trail during hunting season and wear appropriate colors.

    • Getting there: Take M-22 five miles north of Leland. One mile past County Road 626, look for Conservancy sign and parking on left.

Visit the Leelanau Conservancy for a complete list of Leelanau county trail.

Visit on your own or for more information and a schedule of guided hikes contact the Leelanau Conservancy, 231-256-9665