There are some many ways to make the most of warm, sunny summer days throughout the Newaygo region. From biking and hiking, to paddling, or exploring the night sky, you’ll find Newaygo County to be the perfect destination for your next northern Michigan adventure.
Bike the Dragon
Wrapped around Hardy Dam Pond, Michigan’s Dragon lies in wait of your arrival for big outdoor adventure. Imagine yourself soaring through the trees on fast and flowing trails that provide both a technically challenging ride and a relaxing getaway from the hustle of life. This trail isn’t just for biking though, hikers are also welcome to come explore amongst the hardwoods. Accessible from numerous trail heads in Newaygo and Mecosta Counties, each segment offers a new challenge, provoking you to explore further. Come take on The Dragon!
Hike the Branstrom Park Loop
The Fremont Town & Country Path is the perfect destination for an afternoon bike ride. Following the trail, you will happen upon Branstrom Park. This local gem is a 100-acre park featuring a playground, pavilion, short, looped trail, and even a 24-hole disc golf course. The well-marked 1.9-mile looped trail traverses a canopied forest and can be a fantastic spot for hiking and biking. Although hilly, and considered moderately challenging, the looped trail can generally be accomplished in under an hour.
Just imagine….bright blue skies, a gentle breeze at your back, and the sun shimmering upon the water. A day of adventure laid out before you, paddling the swift flowing waters of the White River or the slower rolling Muskegon River. With the summer season upon us, it’s a great time to explore the waterways of the region.
The White River includes about 253 linear miles of streams, beginning in north central region of Newaygo County, flowing southwest to White Lake, and then to Lake Michigan. The total length of the river from the headwater to Lake Michigan is 89.8 miles. With faster flowing waters and obstacles along the way, this river can provide a more challenging adventure for the experienced paddler. Learn all about where to launch, area amenities, and spot to stop along the way with our White River map, and before you go let Hesperia Sport Shop set you up with everything you will need for your White River expedition.
The Muskegon River offers a friendlier float on slower flowing waters. This waterway is wider and therefore slower and easier for a casual paddle. The pace is perfect for kayaking solo, canoeing with friends, or even stand-up paddle boarding on the warmer days. Plan your paddling adventure with our Muskegon River map, and let Croton Dam Float trips help you plan a paddling adventure to remember with their full-service livery.
Our region features a variety of inland lakes just perfect for dropping a line. Our spring-fed lakes are known for bass, bluegill, northern pike, and more. Don’t miss out on great year-round fishing opportunities on the lakes of Newaygo County.
One popular spot popular among local anglers is Diamond Lake. This inland lake is an all sports lake, located approximately 5 miles north of White Cloud. The lake spans approximately 170 acres with about 25 ft of water. Fisherman report catching Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, and Pike.
During the summer, you can find people, swimming, boating, jet skiing, and snorkel in the clear waters of Diamond Lake. The Michigan DNR maintains the boat launch all year long providing access to the beautiful Diamond Lake, and a state park pass is required.
Stargazing
Far from the constant glow of city lights, NewayGo County has perfect spots in every corner of the county for dark sky exploration. Gaze at the galaxy of stars cloaked in complete darkness at the Stephen S. Wessling Observatory located on the Kropscott Farm, where they provide amateur astronomers the opportunity to observe and study the amazing universe in which we live. An astronomical observatory is highly unique for a rural county, and we are fortunate to have such a facility right here in Newaygo County! Come be a part of Public Star Parties that are held throughout the season.
There’s never been a better time to get outdoors and explore all that our beautiful state has to offer. Natural beauty abounds in Newaygo County! We welcome you to discover all of the things to see and do that make our region such a special place visit and live.
