Big Rapids attracts trail users to the city for the
The White Pine Trail and its Riverwalk. The town is also a popular spot for tubing on the Muskegon River, which can be a lot of fun on a summer day.
Big Rapids Trails
The Big Rapids Riverwalk is a very nice paved trail that winds over 2.5 miles along the Muskegon River, connecting several community parks. The trail starts on the edge of Hemlock Park at M-20 and goes north to Hanchett Park, Swede Mill Park, and Northend Riverside Park.
The White Pine Trail, which goes from Cadillac to Comstock Park, intersects the eastern edge of Big Rapids. The trail is paved from Big Rapids to Cadillac. South of Big Rapids, the trail is either grass, gravel, or a combination of both. The trailhead in Big Rapids is on Maple Street.
Big Rapids Parks
Hemlock Park is a nice park located near downtown Big Rapids. The large playground near the entrance is very popular with kids. Athletic facilities at the park include a baseball diamond and tennis courts. The park is great for picnics with a large shelter and several picnic tables. Hemlock Park is adjacent to the Muskegon River and has overlooks that are located along the Riverwalk.
Riverwalk Park and
Hanchett Park each have a gazebo that overlooks the Muskegon River. The parks are accessible by the Big Rapids Riverwalk.
Northend Riverside Park features picnics shelters, a playground, and kayak launch. The White Pine Trail and Big Rapids Riverwalk can be accessed from the park.
The corner of Milton Avenue and Baldwin Street features baseball diamonds and a soccer field that are used by youth teams. The White Pine Trail passes by the athletic fields and goes northwest, connecting to parts of the Riverwalk.
Canoeing & Kayaking
The Muskegon River is Michigan's second longest river and is one of the most popular spots for canoeing and kayaking.
If you have your own kayak or canoe, you can launch your boat from Northend Riverside Park, which is on the east side of the river.
If you don't own a boat, no problem. On Baldwin Street, the Sawmill Tube & Canoe Livery offer trips of various lengths for tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Equipment rental and shuttle service is available.
More About Big Rapids
Big Rapids is home to
Ferris State University, a respected public university with a top-ranked School of Education.
Downtown Big Rapids has several stores, eateries, and businesses along Maple Street and Michigan Avenue. A large selection of restaurant and shopping choices can also be found along State Street and Perry Avenue.