Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve is a 1.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Frankfort, Michigan that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
NOTE: As of August 16, 2020, the stairs leading down to the beach are currently closed due to erosion. Please check here for updates: https://www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/preserve/green-point-dunes-nature-preserve/ This preserve offers nearly three miles of trail winding through forest and meadow to stunning views of Lake Michigan and a beach of unparalleled beauty. The property is host to many native plant species and unique bird habitat so be on the lookout for wildflower displays and great birding. A beautiful wooded loop with two scenic overlooks and stairs to a beach on Lake Michigan. The trail is well maintained and well marked. Each trail junction has a signpost with a placard of the map. Most junctions provide a bench or rock to rest on. Trees are marked with purple blazes to assist with following the trail. The two scenic overlooks are well-constructed wooden platforms with seating. Access to the beach is provided via wooden staircase that provides seating at the top. The beach is fantastic, but the water is cold early in the season so most swimming occurs in late July-September. There are signs explaining the presence of Poison Ivy and ticks. There are many mosquitoes in the woods, but the scenic overlooks and the beach are amazing and well worth the possible nuisance.
This preserve is located 2 miles south of Elberta on Green Point road. The parking area, kiosk and trailhead are very visible from Green Point Road.
Protected, Owned and Managed by The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy http://www.gtrlc.org/preserve/green-point-dunes-nature-preserve/ GRAND TRAVERSE REGIONAL LAND CONSERVANCY 3860 N. Long Lake Road, Suite D Traverse City, Michigan 49684 231-929-7911 or 888-929-3866
Take M-22 South from Frankfort. After 4 miles turn right onto Green Point Road. The trail head and parking will be on the left after 0.2 mi.
Beautiful hike. Its a little slippery with the hills, but I'm glad we opted for boots instead of snowshoes.
Peaceful, undulating trail with a few lookout points out to Lake Michigan. Paths are quite icy - micro spikes essential.
Did the trail clockwise this time for a change. Trail markers are clear, and only ran into a few other parties. Always a nice intermediate hike.
Awesome!!! All the leaves are down it’s 55 and a little fog. One of the best hikes of the year. We had the trail to ourselves. 11-10-2020
I loved this trail! A true “moderate.” Did it have more gnarled roots than the average trail? Yes. Would it have been impossible to know where to go if not for the pink paint because the ground was so thickly blanketed in leaves ? Also yes. These elements added to the fun!
Beautiful trail to see Lake Michigan n some fall foliage. We went to the left where the trail spilts n it was a steep trail.
fantastic trail, my favorite on M-22 outside of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Most of the trail is through beautiful forest, culminating in two absolutely gorgeous Lake Michigan overlooks. Went on a Wednesday morning and had the whole trail to myself, with just the rustling leaves and the rushing waves. Most relaxed I've ever felt in 2020. Also well demarcated with purple marks on trees to stay on the trail. There used to be a staircase down to the beach, but it is closed, with the bottom portion removed. Few things to note: there are quite a few (relatively mild) elevation changes. There are also many tree branches/roots on the ground, as well as fallen leaves in the autumn, creating slip/trip hazards. Would not attempt this trail on wet ground, but I was blessed to have a dry, sunny day, and it was fantastic.
Really beautiful lookouts. Lots of roots on the path so be careful. Got a great little workout in.
Short trail but very nice views. Lots of roots and trees, slightly technical. Great quick hike.
Only two other groups on the trail today. Nice trail but only two overlooks of the lake. Stairs to the beach are still closed.