To truly appreciate the nature that surrounds you, immersing yourself in a state park or national forest is the way to go. From its giant shimmering lakes to its densely-wooded forests, Michigan boasts glorious natural spaces that would be any outdoorsperson’s dream. Begin your exploration with Rifle River Recreation Area. With its trails, ponds, and campsites, here’s how to make the most out of your adventure.
If you've never heard of the Rifle River Recreation Area, not too far away from Lupton, then you're in surprisingly broad company. You're also, however, not yet privy to one of Michigan's best-kept recreational secrets. Home to over 4,400 acres of woods, campsites and more, this wonder has no shortage of natural and man-made excitement waiting for you. Grab your camping gear and hiking boots, because it’s time to start exploring.
Those looking for a place to hike within the Rifle River Recreation Area will have two worthwhile choices here. The longer of the two is the Rifle River Multi-Use Trail, a 14-mile trail that allows for not only hiking, but also mountain biking and, when the weather cooperates, cross-country skiing. Hikers here will be able to catch views of several bodies of water, as well as proceed past several different campground sites.
The second hiking option for the Rifle River Recreation Area—one that doesn't involve mountain biking, for those who'd rather not run the risk of sharing the trail—is Pintail Pond, a three-quarter-mile nature trail that features as its primary scenic vista the pond of the same name. Home to a wide variety of natural features, from carnivorous plants to trees of impressive magnitude like the Black Spruce, you'll be able to see a wide variety of scenic views herein.
The Rifle River Recreation Area has several places to camp—there are about a half-dozen at last report. With so many options, you'll find just what kind of camping experience you want, but perhaps the best in the camp goes to Devoe Lake Rustic. Featuring swimming and a boat launch thanks to the proximity of the lake, this spot looks to offer an authentic camping experience. There's a handicap-accessible vault toilet here as well, so it won't be completely rustic, but just rustic enough to let you know you've been camping. Several sites are available within, so finding a place to camp here likely won't be a challenge.
Going just beyond the recreation area into Mio, you'll find one of the area's most unusual attractions: a monument set up for a bird. Not so much for one bird, but for a species. Specifically, we're talking about the Kirtland Warbler, and the Warbler Monument it engendered. Said to be the first monument to a songbird ever established on Earth, it features a four-foot-high replica of a Kirtland Warbler, an endangered species of songbird. The bird was carved from fiberglass and plastics, and received a dedication when it opened in 1963 by National Audubon Society member Roger Tory Peterson.
After a long day of hiking and scenery viewing, you'll be needing a good hearty dinner. LumberJack Food and Spirits in West Branch should fit that bill nicely, offering up a selection of fare that's perfect for the outdoors in Michigan. Ribs, steak, and more will set things up nicely, and a wide array of drinks are available as well. LumberJack puts its focus on local blends, including area microbrew beer and local wine from, among others, the Rose Valley Winery.
