Ottawa County
, Michigan
Upper Macatawa Natural Area

Upper Macatawa Natural Area

Upper Macatawa Natural Area

The 614-acre property features stunning bridges and is popular among bikers, hikers, runners, and birders. Visitors will find a variety of habitat, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, that is home to diverse wildlife. The bike path running through the park connects north to Fred Meijer Kenowa Trail along Byron Road and south to the Adams Street bike path leading to the lakeshore. It also connects to the 1.7-mile Middle Macatawa Connector, linking Hawthorn Park to Upper Macatawa Natural Area. The single-track mountain bike trails are maintained by dedicated volunteers and are some of the best trails in the area.

  • Single-track mountain bike trails (FYI: these trails close temporarily if conditions are hazardous. Please check this page to see whether they are open before visiting).
  • Hiking and ungroomed cross-country ski trails
  • Paved bike trails
  • Scenic overlook decks
  • Picnic tables
  • Rustic toilets
  • Hunting by special permit. See hunting for details.
  • Reservable picnic shelter

Ottawa County Parks and Recreation is committed to creating a legacy of expansive, accessible, and biodiverse natural communities for all to enjoy. All parks have varying levels of accessibility. At this park you will find:

  • Accessible pit toilet on a paved trail 
  • Accessible benches provided at overlooks 

Motor Vehicle Permit Not Required

There are no entry or launch fees.

Dogs Allowed (on leash)

Dogs are required to be leashed (10’ max) and under control at all times and are not permitted in buildings, restrooms, picnic shelters, off-trail, or as posted. Owners must clean up after their pet and dispose of waste in a trash receptacle. Service dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted in all areas at any time.

Dog Rules & Tips

 

Follow Park Rules

All Ottawa County Parks Official Rules are in place.

Review Park & Open Space Rules

Features

  • Single-track mountain bike trails (FYI: these trails close temporarily if conditions are hazardous. Please check this page to see whether they are open before visiting).
  • Hiking and ungroomed cross-country ski trails
  • Paved bike trails
  • Scenic overlook decks
  • Picnic tables
  • Rustic toilets
  • Hunting by special permit. See hunting for details.
  • Reservable picnic shelter

Accessibility

Ottawa County Parks and Recreation is committed to creating a legacy of expansive, accessible, and biodiverse natural communities for all to enjoy. All parks have varying levels of accessibility. At this park you will find:

  • Accessible pit toilet on a paved trail 
  • Accessible benches provided at overlooks 

Requirements & Restrictions

Motor Vehicle Permit Not Required

There are no entry or launch fees.

Dogs Allowed (on leash)

Dogs are required to be leashed (10’ max) and under control at all times and are not permitted in buildings, restrooms, picnic shelters, off-trail, or as posted. Owners must clean up after their pet and dispose of waste in a trash receptacle. Service dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted in all areas at any time.
Dog Rules & Tips

Follow Park Rules

All Ottawa County Parks Official Rules are in place.
Review Park & Open Space Rules