Misty Acres Hike - Old-Growth Forest Network Induction
Date and Time
Friday May 15, 2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM EDT
Friday, May 15th @ 10am
Location
Misty Acres Trail
Fees/Admission
Free
Contact Information
Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy
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Description
Join us for a guided 1/2-mile spring hike to celebrate the induction of Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve into the national Old-Growth Forest Network (OGFN). The Basics Discover the quiet beauty of Misty Acres: the Borwell Preserve, where a meandering trail winds through the preserve’s more than 360 acres of forest, high above a deep ravine cut by the rushing waters of a tributary to the Betsie River. The secondary old-growth forest of sugar maples, black cherry, beech, and hemlock–along with stately white pines–is home to many bird species, including the charismatic Pileated Woodpecker and songsters like the Winter Wren. The woodland flora is subtly beautiful in the spring, with ferns just popping up, trees budding, and migratory bird species returning. Later in the season, as ferns leaf out, the understory is a lush tapestry of green. Wildflowers you may see along the trail include Common Trillium, Large-flowered Bellwort, Small Solomon-seal, White Baneberry, and Jack-in-the-Pulpit. Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve will join more than 320 forests nationwide recognized in the Old-Growth Forest Network. A brief induction ceremony, including remarks by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy staff and Leona Addie of the Old-Growth Forest Network, will take place at the Misty Acres Preserve Trailhead before the hike. ?What should I bring? Consider bringing your camera or binoculars, a reusable water bottle, and snacks. Dress for the weather! Always check the forecast in advance. Sunscreen and bug spray for your safety and comfort. Sturdy, close-toed shoes are recommended. This is not a dog-friendly event. Registration is required; updates or cancellations will be emailed to registered participants. If you're completing registration for multiple people, please register each individually. Thank you for your interest in joining us! If you have any questions, please contact us at (231) 929-7911 or info@gtrlc.org. For more information, please contact: Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Michelle Fielstra, Communications & Engagement Specialist mfielstra@gtrlc.org Old-Growth Forest Network Leona Addie, Great Lakes Regional Manager leona@oldgrowthforest.net