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Top 5 Spring Activities in Mecosta County
Escape the ordinary and dive into the heart of Michigan’s Mecosta County, a region brimming with unexpected adventures and hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a memorable family getaway, this area offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. From challenging yourself on world-class golf courses and exploring breathtaking trails to savoring local wines and discovering vibrant public art, Mecosta County is ready to surprise and delight. Join us as we unveil five must-do activities that will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for this captivating corner of Michigan.
1. Play a round of Golf
Home to the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame, it’s no surprise that Big Rapids boasts some of the finest golfing in the state.
Tullymore Golf Resort in nearby Canadian Lakes offers two distinct golfing experiences: Tullymore and St. Ives.
Designed by the acclaimed Jim Engh, the Tullymore course winds through 800 acres of pristine Michigan wilderness. This par-72 course was named the #1 upscale public course in America by Golf Digest shortly after its 2002 opening and has consistently ranked among the top 15 public courses.
Tullymore’s sister course, St. Ives, is the work of legendary Michigan golf course architect Jerry Matthews. Like Tullymore, this par-72 course features wetlands, highlands, and woods, captivating golfers of all abilities. St. Ives has earned a 5-star rating from Golf Digest and was named a top 10 course for women in America by Golf for Women Magazine.
Conveniently located near US 131 with easy access to lodging, the Katke Golf Course at Ferris State University is ideal for exploring the area.
Katke features a blend of 21 links-style and tree-lined holes. In the colder months, enjoy the Ken Janke Sr. Golf Learning Center, which houses 4 Trackman Simulators and an indoor putting green. You can also stroll through the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame in the Ken Janke Center.
Clear Lake Golf Course, an 18-hole masterpiece designed by Michigan’s Jeff Gorney, boasts bentgrass greens and a blue grass mix.
Rolling hills and wetlands surrounding Clear Lake on the east side of Big Rapids provide stunning views. Clear Lake’s combination of scenic beauty and affordable rates makes it an excellent choice for a fun day of golf.
2. Take a hike (or a bike) on The Dragon Trail
The Michigan Dragon Trail at Hardy Dam was completed in late summer 2024 and is already a local favorite! This multi-use trail snakes its way through Mecosta and neighboring Newaygo Counties, offering a unique outdoor adventure for everyone from casual hikers to seasoned cyclists.
Forty-five miles of stunning scenery, from lush forests and sparkling lakes to rolling hills and breathtaking vistas. The Dragon Trail truly embraces the beauty of the region, encircling 4,000 acres of Hardy Pond offering incredible views at each of the 13 scenic overlooks. The trail crosses over many smaller bridges but perhaps most exciting is riding over the world’s third-largest earthen dam with breathtaking and surreal views of the river valley.
The trail itself is a marvel of engineering. Rock armoring effectively hardens the trail tread across short wet areas, mud holes, or in areas to create a unique trail feature. Suitable large, flat stones are firmly set so they don’t move. Rock armoring can be a less expensive and more durable solution to problem wet areas. While stones found on-site can sometimes be used, they’re often brought in from elsewhere in large sections. In addition to wet areas, stone is also used when building footbridge abutments along the trail.
Looking for more accessibility? Segment 1, conveniently located near the Operators Village Day Park entrance adjacent to Hardy Dam, features a one-mile ADA-accessible trail. This shows the community’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone can experience the magic of the Dragon Trail.
If you’re ready to explore more The Mecosta County and Newaygo County Parks have partnered to offer a dual-county park pass. This pass unlocks access to both counties’ parks, allowing you to discover hidden gems and embark on even more exciting adventures across both Mecosta and Newaygo counties.
3. Uncork Adventure: Discover the White Pine Wine Trail
Picture this: rolling hills dappled with sunlight, the crisp scent of pine mingling with the sweet aroma of ripening grapes, and the clinking of glasses filled with exquisite local wines. That’s the promise of the newly minted White Pine Wine Trail, a collaborative effort from four of our region’s most passionate vintners. Forget the crowded tourist traps; this is an intimate journey through the heart of our wine country, a chance to connect with the land and the people who pour their hearts into every bottle.
The trail weaves together the unique stories and flavors of:
- Stone House Winery: Known for their robust reds and old-world charm, Stone House Winery offers a taste of tradition. Imagine sipping a velvety Cabernet Sauvignon in their rustic tasting room, overlooking vineyards that have seen generations of harvests.
- Gwin Girls Winery: Prepare for a burst of vibrant energy! Gwin Girls Winery brings a fresh, modern perspective to winemaking, specializing in crisp whites and delightful rosés. Their playful approach and dedication to sustainable practices make them a must-stop.
- Winery at Youngs Farm: Experience the true essence of farm-to-glass. The Winery at Youngs Farm integrates their vineyard into their working farm, offering visitors a holistic experience. Enjoy their handcrafted wines alongside fresh, seasonal produce, creating a symphony of flavors that reflect the local terroir.
- Heavenly Vineyards: True to its name, Heavenly Vineyards offers breathtaking panoramic views that pair perfectly with their elegant, meticulously crafted wines. Their focus on small-batch production ensures that every sip is a testament to their dedication to quality.
- Cadillac Winery: For those that enjoy a little bit of class, Cadillac Winery brings that in spades. With a large selection of wines, and a classy atmosphere, this winery is a must see.
The White Pine Wine Trail isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about creating memories. Each winery offers a unique experience, from guided tours and barrel tastings to live music and food pairings. This is an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and discover the hidden gems of our local wine scene.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the White Pine Wine Trail promises an unforgettable adventure. Grab your friends, pack a picnic, and prepare to be delighted by the flavors and stories that await.
4. Enrich Your Experience: Discover the Public Art Collective
For families who appreciate community-driven experiences and seek to immerse themselves in local culture, the Public Art Collective in Big Rapids offers a unique opportunity. This creative placemaking network connects art, community, and nature, offering culturally rich experiences that are unique to Ferris State University and Big Rapids.
Established in 2024 as a City of Big Rapids & Ferris State University Placemaking Partnership, the Public Art Collective empowers people through culturally rich experiences. It’s a place where ideas and action converge, adding another layer of depth and interest to your Mecosta County getaway. Whether you’re strolling through the Ferris State University campus or exploring downtown Big Rapids, keep an eye out for the Collective’s installations and events, and discover how art enhances the community’s spirit. The public art collective self-guided tour books are free and available at the Explore Big Rapids Welcome Center.
5. Celebrate Spring in Barryton: The Lilac Festival – A Family-Friendly Tradition
For a truly charming and memorable family outing, mark your calendars for the Barryton Lilac Festival, held annually the first weekend in June. This delightful small-town festival focuses on family-friendly events in an alcohol-free, wholesome atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Imagine strolling through downtown Barryton, surrounded by the fragrant beauty of blooming lilacs. The festival offers a wide array of activities to keep everyone entertained, from carnival rides and a marketplace to area-wide yard sales. Enjoy a pig roast or catch live entertainment. Saturday is packed with a parade, a car and bike show, and a farmers’ market. The festival concludes on Sunday with a 5k run/walk presented by Corewell Health.
The Barryton Lilac Festival is more than just a festival; it’s a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of a close-knit community. It’s a place where families can reconnect, enjoy simple pleasures, and create traditions that will be cherished for years to come.