Public Preserves
Nature Preserves Protected by Cadillac Area Land Conservatory
“These preserves are open to the public. Leave only footprints!”
Oliver Family Nature Preserve
In 2014, Bud (Floyd) and Ann Oliver generously donated a 15-acre parcel of land to the Cadillac Area Land Conservancy (CALC) located near Harrietta, Michigan. This preserve, featuring Slagle Creek and bordering the Huron Manistee National Forest, offers public access for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. There are several bat houses on the preserve as well to note.
Carl T. Johnson Nature Preserve
Carl T. Johnson Nature Preserve, a 39-acre wildlife habitat near Benson and 33 Roads, off M-55. It is adjacent to the Mitchell Swamp. Initially bequeathed to the Rotary Club of Cadillac by local conservationist Carl T. Johnson, the land is open to the public. This preserve has a forest management plan and during certain growing years there is selective timber harvesting. Trails are maintained and plenty of parking. Remember if you bring your dog to clean up after them and have a leash.
Kohn Family Nature Preserve
The Kohn Family Nature Preserve, is a captivating 22-acre sanctuary open to the public along the Manistee River north of Mesick with the North Country Trail to its northern boundary. This pristine landscape offers 4,300 feet of riverfront tranquility, inviting canoeists and hikers to explore its natural wonders. With rich biodiversity and cherished history, it serves as a testament to conservation values. Accessible via M-115 and M-37, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable outdoor escape just 18 miles from downtown Cadillac.
This property is accessible by the Manistee River and a landing area is marked for paddlers. Stop and enjoy your lunch and check out the preserve. Remember what you bring to this primitive isolated stop needs to go back with you.
Waldeck Island Nature Preserve
Waldeck Island is an eleven-acre preserve located on Stone Ledge Lake and is open to the public for quiet sports such as hiking and snowshoeing. It is located a short distance south of Cadillac off M-115 and 43rd Road.
Once you have arrived it is an easy trail that leads you through a quiet woods to the walking bridge that takes you to the island. The bio-diverse swamp land and a view to Stone Ledge Lake awaits. The Sandy Hansen viewing platform was donated by the Dick Hansen family in 2016 in memory of Sandy. You may see a blue heron or eagle flying by but water fowl is almost a sure thing. Waldeck is relaxing, quiet and beautiful during each of the seasons.
Sandy Hansen Viewing Platform at Waldeck Island
CALC thanked the Dick Hansen family on Sunday, October 23, 2016 for donating a wildlife viewing platform in memory of Sandy Hansen.
All who attended were impressed with the platform, the view, and many newcomers to the island were surprised how beautiful the walking trail is. It’s so close to town and a gem where they will now make a point to visit. Be sure to stop by.
This viewing platform overlooks a wetland, offering views of a beautiful wetland and riparian habitats and their wildlife like ducks, geese, herons, gulls, eagles, deer, muskrats, mink, and many songbirds in adjacent shrub and forest habitat.
