The Nature Conservancy’s Carl A. Gerstacker Nature Preserve protects 879 acres of cobbled lakeshore, interdunal wetlands, conifer swamps and mixed hardwood forest. Clearly marked and well-maintained trails lead through wet bottomlands and forest-covered dunes to the edge of Little Trout Lake, alive with the calls of peeping frogs and common loons. The mixed hardwood forests provide critical breeding habitats for many types of forest birds including the black-throated blue warbler that requires thick understory shrubs for its nests.
Sharp eyes can spot ruffed grouse among the birch. Near the edge of Lake Huron, marshy bogs support insectivorous sundews and rare orchids while the endangered Pitcher’s thistle and Houghton’s goldenrod grow on the adjoining dunes. This is a remarkable preserve, rich in wildlife and isolated from most human intrusions. The area is open in the winter for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing.
Our free guided audio tour includes stories, fun facts, historical notes, and natural sounds to help deepen your connection to the Carl A. Gerstacker Nature Preserve. You can access the tour from the comfort of your home or onsite as you hike.
More more information about Gerstacker, check out the Preserve Guide here.
More ways to explore can be found at nature.org/MIexplore.
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