EAST JORDAN, Mich. (Michigan Back Roads) – If you haven’t heard, there’s a new trail in East Jordan that is a hit.
Not only is this trail universally accessible, but it is also located in a wetland that, until now, has been nearly impossible to visit no matter what your physical capabilities. The Don & Eileen Klein Nature Trail runs from Sportsman’s Park in East Jordan to the Rogers Family Homestead Nature Preserve. The Rogers Preserve Trail is also universally accessible with an aggregate surface. In the course of just a mile and a half the boardwalk crosses the Jordan River Sedge Marsh Nature Preserve and the Dressel Nature Preserve. Nature lovers, bird watchers, and hikers couldn’t ask for more.
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The trail offers accessibility to the best of the wild and scenic Jordan River. The boardwalk features two bump outs. One of them is perfect for birdwatching, the preserve has two manmade eagle nest platforms, the other is a comfortable spot to enjoy the beauty of the Jordan River. A wide variety of bird species make this a photographer’s dream and a world class birdwatching destination. Species observed include bald eagles, ospreys, trumpeter swans, egrets, marsh wrens, green herons, kingfishers and Caspian terns among many others, and that is in just the first two years the trail has been open.
The adventure starts at the Friends of the Jordan Watershed Center. This is East Jordans oldest commercial building dating from the 1870’s. It was moved to the trailhead and restored to its original glory. The nearby Sportsman’s Park is within walking distance and features public restrooms, a locomotive and the Jordan Art Walk comprised of 24 sculptures themed “Explore Nature Through Art”. The Klein Trail is open all year though winter can be difficult and wet conditions can make the boardwalk slippery. The trail goes through a wide-open wetland so consider weather conditions. There are picnic areas in the park and downtown shopping is close by, adding to a great day trip experience.
The Klein Nature Trail is just one of several nature destinations and activities in and around East Jordan. Whether you want a hiking trail, historic architecture, or even a winter river float, East Jordan has it. The East Jordan Area Chamber of Commerce office provides brochures, maps, and a ton of ideas for fun. The office is at 100 Main Street. Don’t worry about the office being open on weekends, the vestibule has all the information you need in a handy rack.
