Trail Overview
This trail winds along the Jordan River and is one vehicle wide, with places to pass along this route. There are two large well well-kept bridges that cross over the Jordan River. This route has some of the best views in the area, providing ample places to see the surrounding wildlife and forest that include Beavers, Black bears, Deer, muskrats, foxes, coyotes, rabbits, bobcats, minks, and many other animals. There are also many different bird Species, including Grouse and woodcock. Many different kinds of ducks, owls, and even Bald Eagles and Red Tailed Hawks. Many trees make up this dense forest, but here are some of the notable ones. Maple, oak, and beech trees, as well as mixed swamp conifers, are all visitors here, so please be cautious and courteous of the surrounding land and animals. Practice safe and effective Tread Lightly principles to ensure this land stays open for us to use.
History
The Jordan River, as well as the surrounding area, has been an important part of Michigan's history for many years. Originally, the river and the surrounding land were home to bands of Ottawa Indians who are believed to have periodically inhabited the Jordan River watershed. Around the 1870s, the logging boom took off with many families like the Pinney family making a name for themselves in the area. In 1972, the state of Michigan designated the Jordan River as its first "wild and scenic" river to protect it and the surrounding land from commercialization. To this day, the river is still a vital part of daily life for the people of Michigan.
