Hemlock Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek

Tucked away in the riverside woodlands of West Olive, Hemlock Crossing has become a hidden gem for locals and visitors alike. With numerous well-maintained trails that are free to access throughout the year (snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the winter), this Ottawa County park is a beautiful stretch of land to explore for all ages and abilities.

This hike route provides a medium-length option from the main parking area and Nature Center, tying together many trail segments that wind through the upland forests, old pine plantations, and riparian environments along Pigeon River.

No bikes or horses. Open to cross country skiing and snowshoeing (snowshoe rental available $8/3 hours, children 6 and under free at the Nature Center) when trails are snow-covered. Kayak and canoe launch is also available.

See the Ottawa County Park page for more information.

To access Hemlock Crossing, take the Croswell St. exit from US-31 west to W Olive Road. Head south on W Olive to the main park entrance.

From the Nature Center, head north along the paved path toward the boardwalk across the river and Intersection 4. With numerous trails and intersections, use the posted trail maps or the Hiking Project mobile app to help orient yourself.

From Intersection 4, head a little further north to Intersection 5 before turning right (east) to loop along the trails that mark the outer boundary of the park. With the exception of Intersection 7, you'll stay to the right at each intersection in a counter-clockwise direction of this first 1.5-mile loop.

At Intersection 18, you have the option to head back to Intersection 10 and the Nature Center for a ~2-mile hike. Otherwise, continue to the southwest toward Intersection 19 for another shorter loop and the option to continue even further to The Weaver House and the westernmost boundary of the park (would add another mile to the total mileage of this hike) and Pine Bend County Park.

Keep an eye out for the Viewing Area spurs which typically head toward Pigeon River for different vantage points of the water with opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife among the reeds and trees along the river banks.