Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve, 10471 6 Mile Rd NE, Rockford

 

This is a hidden gem in West Michigan that we recently visited. The 123 acre site contains meandering trails that roam through prairie, woods, and bogs. It is unique and beautiful.
A General Land Office Survey in 1800 showed this property to be oak-hickory forests with mixed conifer swamp. In the 1860s, John and Mikel Saul emigrated from Ireland and lived here. From then until the 1980s, all land that was not wetlands was cleared and farmed. But in the 1970s some interest rose in protecting the unique wetlands.
In 1989 the Nature Area Conservancy of West Michigan bought 52 acres from Valerino & Maria Castro. in 1991 the Land Conservancy acquired the remaining land. Current management is focused on protecting the bog, reforesting cleared areas, and establishing a tallgrass prairie.
Here are the rest of the photos from our visit.  It's an easy hike and covers 1.8 miles. We're looking forward to our next visit when fall colors are at their peak. Visit soon and support the preservation efforts being made here.
No trolls 😊
Unidentifiable piece of rusty metal 😕
Experience nature at its best at the Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve.

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