Wildflower Walks in Northern Michigan
By Marilyn Shy, Kalkaska Conservation District
Spring is one of the most exciting times of the year for anyone who loves the out-of-doors. Birds can be seen heading north; every day brings a new flock of migrants winging their way to their summer homes. Green buds and shoots begin to poke out of the ground. And just before the trees leaf out, while the sun is still shining brightly upon the forest floor, an annual carpet of ephemeral flowers blossom into a dazzling display that on certain days can take your breath away.
Ephemeral wildflowers are very short-lived, often only blooming for a week or two, and are long gone by the time the trees are fully leafed out.
Depending upon the soil and other environmental factors, some areas will have a more spectacular bloom than others. One such area is the Jordan River Valley. During portions of May and June you might be lucky enough to see Adder’s Tongue, also called Yellow Trout Lily, Marsh Marigold, and carpets of Large-flowered Trillium. Other wildflowers in the area include Spring-beauty, Dutchman’s Breeches, Sharp-lobed Hepatica, Bloodwort, Spiderwort, and many, many more.
The Jordan River was Michigan’s first federally designated Wild and Scenic River. The watershed covers 100,000 acres and has over 30 major tributaries that form the main river. There are two prominent overlooks: Deadman’s Hill and Landslide Overlook. The pathway is rugged with several ridge climbs. To get to the top of Deadman’s Hill you climb over 400 feet out of the valley, but the beautiful view of the headwaters at the top is so very worth it.
The valley is also full of wildlife. On a warm, sunny day, you might spot bald eagles soaring over the valley on thermal currents. Critters such as beaver, mink, otters, herons, numerous waterfowl, raccoons and deer are often seen. Hike quietly, be observant, and you may be rewarded with a glimpse of these woodland creatures.
Another area that is great for wildflower viewing is the North Country Trail. There are many places to access the trail in Kalkaska County. The Fife Lake Loop Trail in the southern part of the county uses a portion of the North Country Trail and then loops around to form a 21-mile pathway. When I hiked a part of it last year in early June I saw Pink Lady’s Slipper, also called Moccasin-flower, Canada Mayflower, and Starflower. Continuing my hike north toward Headquarters Lake I passed under towering white pines that reminded me of what the forest must have looked like hundreds of years ago. The quiet and the solitude refreshes and rejuvenates one’s very soul.
These days when we are being asked to shelter at home, it is still important for our families to get exercise. Under the current governor’s order, which is in place until May 15, exercising and walking is allowed as long as one remains 6 feet away from people who live outside their household. The DNR asks trails users to stay local and not travel far distances for outdoor recreational activities.
What better time than right now to hike on one of our local trails. So get out and enjoy some of that lovely springtime sunshine in the great Northwoods!
