Nature preserves for bird watching in Harbor Springs, Michigan

The Hoogland Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 4135 South Lake Shore Drive in Harbor Springs, Michigan, United States. Spanning nearly 3,000 feet along Scenic Heritage Route M-119, also known as the Tunnel of Trees, this preserve offers a unique natural experience. The landscape of the preserve varies, with flat areas on the west side and rolling ridges to the east. The forest is filled with large red oak trees and features a classic maple and beech northern upland forest typical of northwestern Emmet County. In the spring, the woods come alive with trillium, trout lily, spring beauty, and other spring ephemerals.

Hidden Marsh Sanctuary is a peaceful park located at 57437 Buckhorn Road in Three Rivers, Michigan, United States. This sanctuary offers a serene woodland stroll with beautiful views of Hoffman Pond, making it a perfect spot to bring a sketchbook. The flat, forested trails along the banks of Portage River and Hoffman Pond provide a scenic retreat for visitors. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and dog waste must be packed out. The sanctuary features a diverse range of plant species and is a great spot for birdwatching in the spring. Wetlands on the property are home to ducks, herons, turtles, frogs, beavers, muskrats, and more. The upland areas harbor foxes, coyotes, rabbits, and groundhogs, while various bird species nest in the trees above.