Pelizzari Natural Area

"I have a special place in my heart for this trail. While there are no sweeping bay views or astounding topography, this is a very pleasant walk. The fields are very serene and the hemlock area is unique and atmospheric. I enjoy it in all seasons. Rarely is it particularly crowded, and I have frequently had the trails all to myself. I also appreciate how easy it is to get to Pelizzari, and how close it is to downtown Traverse City. It is a fairly easy walk, great for kids and dogs. I have heard they might be expanding the preserve, and I hope they do!"

"I enjoyed a great trail run on the well-marked trails. It’s a peaceful and clean place. Only one piece of litter near the parking area! Super place to walk a dog, even a container of dog biscuits on one of the many benches. Stop and ponder, listen to bird songs."

"We truly love the Pelizzari Natural Area. We try to walk here most every day when we are at the Old Mission Peninsula. It is a rather magical place. Beautiful in all four seasons. We have always experienced friendly fellow walkers (no bikes). It is a common place for bring people to walk their dogs. And all the dogs have always been in control and well behaved. We are excited that they are hoping to expand this natural area. Old Mission Peninsula is it an extraordinary place and this resource is another feather in its cap."

"This trail has a nice loop with some mild elevation. We decided to go in the late afternoon a few hours before dusk. The trail signage is very easy to follow and as long as your on the trail, I feel it would be hard to get lost. As you start off, you can see a good bit of residential, but after the first few hundred feet or so, it's very wooded and quiet. This trail is mostly fields and pine forest. There is a neat little spot where you can see some chestnut trees that were planted. These are protected and are not producing. Check out my photos to see the parking lot, signage at the lot, and the trail map. The trail is nicely taken care of. There is also a nice wooden bench overlooking some rolling hills."

"First time hiking this particular area. Traverse an open meadow into a beautiful woods. Couple miles round trip for lower circle. The ice and snow stuck on the trees was absolutely gorgeous. The trail had been flattened out and snow shoes weren't even necessary. Do recommend yaktrax or similar for a few of the inclines. Really nice easy hike. Great place to take your dog too (you'll need a leash)."