Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area

The Grand Traverse Commons Recreation and Natural Area is a 140-acre park that was dedicated to Garfield Township in the early 1990s.  Miles of unpaved trails, many covered with woodchips, wander up, down, and around wooded hillsides, streams, meadows, and wetlands. The park is a part of the overall Grand Traverse Commons Redevelopment District and was originally a part of the former State Psychiatric Hospital.

Hiking, biking, nature watching and cross-country skiing are all enjoyed at the park. Adjacent to the park on the east is The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a redevelopment of the old State Hospital area containing a mix of retail, office, and residential uses. Adjacent to the park on the west is a 38-acre wooded parcel owned by the State of Michigan that is also available for public use.

Parking and trailheads to the Natural Area exist on North Long Lake Road, near the intersection of Medical Campus and Orange Drives, near the Barns area, on the west side of the TBA Administrative building, and on the  northernmost side of the Copper Ridge development. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. Restrooms are not available on site.