May Woods Nature Trails
Est. 2014
"Come out for a hike or a bike."
May Woods Nature Trails
“Come out for a hike or a bike!”
The May Woods Nature Trails, are located 1.5 miles west of Mackinaw City on Central Avenue.
The trailhead is located in the southwest corner of the Heritage Village, next to the Nature Center, where abundant parking is available. It is located in Section 14, Township 39 North, Range 4 West, Wawatam Township of Emmet County, Michigan.
In the warm months the Trails are accessible via the Heritage Village Central Avenue entrance, with access via the Headlands Road Heritage Village entrance during the cold and snowy months. The May Woods Nature Trails are owned and managed by the Mackinaw Area Historical Society. Situated on 100 acres, the 10 trails offer over 2.5 miles of Hiking, Biking, Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing.
The groomed trails meander through a forest of hardwoods, pines and cedars, as well as, native flora and fauna. Wildlife to be seen include deer, coyote, fox, rabbits, eagles and hawks. The trails are open to the public, local schools and non profit organizations to use for recreation, educational activities and low impact research projects.
The Nature Trails have been designed for the enjoyment of all ages, all year round. Seasonal events include monthly candle light hikes in the fall and monthly hikes in the winter.
Visit the MackinawHeritageVillage Facebook page for all event specifics.
Note that you have the ability to access both the Headlands Trails, French Farm Lake Trails and the North Country Trail from May Woods. Spend a day or two enjoying the Northwest Tip of the Mitt! It’s free and fun for the whole family!
The Mackinaw Area Historical Society was gifted the 100 acres of land by Virginia May of Utah (and of the Chamberlain family). Mrs. May visited the MAHS website and Heritage Village, in 2014, and was impressed. Shortly after, she generously approached MAHS with the offer. Several members of the historical society spent time assessing the property for its unique features and initially inspired work on the Nature Center.
The trails were mapped, blazed and groomed in 2020.