Grass River (Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grass River |
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Grass River Michigan
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Lake Bellaire 44°56′24″N 85°12′40″W / 44.94°N 85.21111°W |
| River mouth | Clam Lake, Michigan 44°55′02″N 85°13′22″W / 44.91722°N 85.22283°W |
| Length | 2.3 mi (3.7 km) |
The Grass River is a short river in Antrim County, located in the state of Michigan in the United States. It is about 2.3-mile-long (3.7 km). This river is an important part of the larger Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed.
This amazing water system starts with Intermediate Lake. Water then flows through the Intermediate River into Lake Bellaire. The Grass River then carries water from Lake Bellaire into Clam Lake. From Clam Lake, the water moves into Torch Lake through the short Clam River.
The journey of the water continues from Torch Lake. It flows through the Torch River into Lake Skegemog. Finally, the water from Lake Skegemog reaches Elk Lake. Elk Lake then empties into the eastern part of Grand Traverse Bay at a place called Elk Rapids.
Discover the Grass River Natural Area
The Grass River Natural Area is a special park that covers about 1,492 acres (6.04 km2). This large area protects important wetlands and homes for many types of wildlife. A non-profit group called Grass River Natural Area, Inc. has been buying and protecting this land since 1969.
Explore the Trails
You can easily explore this natural area thanks to its many trails. There are 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of boardwalks, bridges, and platforms. These allow visitors to get close to the river, streams, lakes, and wetlands without disturbing nature.
In total, there are 7.5 miles (12.1 km) of hiking trails. One popular path is the 2.2 miles (3.5 km) Grass River Natural Area Rail-Trail. This trail was once a railroad track! It was built in the late 1800s by the Chicago and West Michigan Railroad. Later, the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway used it until the 1980s. Now, it's a great place for people to walk and enjoy nature.
