The tallest geologic point in Isabella County just got easier to explore thanks to Chippewa Watershed Conservancy staff and volunteers.
Recent completion of a two-mile long hiking trail system offers a mix of challenging trails for the seasoned expert as well as flatter and easier to navigate options.
CWC staff and volunteers have been working every Thursday evening since the end of April to build, using hand tools, one of the most scenic non-motorized trail systems in the Central Michigan region.
Purchased in 2016 after a nearly quarter-million dollar capital campaign, Bundy Hill Preserve is a 100-acre permanently protected nature sanctuary owned and managed by CWC. The preserve is located on River Road in Broomfield Township, Isabella County, about 25 minutes west of Mt. Pleasant.
“We estimate that more than 50 volunteers contributed over 700 hours while giving up 21 Thursday evenings to support the construction of this incredible hiking trail network,” said Jon Breithaupt, CWC executive director.
In contrast to the city of Mt. Pleasant which sits at an elevation of 771 feet, the summit of Bundy Hill is 1,270 feet – nearly 500 vertical feet above the city center.
“The trail network traverses mature hardwood forest, fascinating geology and offers many scenic vistas for hikers. We encourage folks to explore the new trails on the preserve. Bundy Hill Preserve is a unique gem open to the public for passive recreation such as hiking, wildlife watching, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing,” said Breithaupt.
A ribbon cutting event with the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce will be held on Thursday, September 27, 2018 from 4 to 6 pm at the preserve.
