Explore the Breathtaking Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
Discover the natural beauty and hiking trails of Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, a serene escape in Traverse City, Michigan.
Nestled in Traverse City, Michigan, the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its extensive hiking trails and diverse landscapes, this location is perfect for exploring the vibrant flora and fauna of the region. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or an exhilarating hike, the Commons provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of northern Michigan's picturesque scenery.
A brief summary to Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
- Red Dr, Traverse City, Michigan, 49684, US
- +1231-941-1620
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some trails can be uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for an extended period.
- Check the weather before your visit to dress appropriately for the conditions.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Take a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife you may encounter.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Traverse City, head east on E Front St toward Park St. Continue on E Front St for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Division St. Turn left onto Division St and walk for about 0.3 miles. You will pass by the Traverse City Central High School on your left. Continue straight on Division St as it turns into E 8th St. After about 0.6 miles, turn right onto Red Dr. The Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area will be along Red Dr, with entrances to the trails clearly marked.
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Biking
If you have a bike, you can start from downtown Traverse City. Head east on E Front St and follow it for about 0.5 miles. When you reach Division St, turn left and continue for about 0.3 miles. As you bike along Division St, enjoy the scenery of local shops and schools. After about 0.6 miles, when Division St turns into E 8th St, continue straight and then turn right onto Red Dr. Look for the bike-friendly paths leading into the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area.
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Public Transport
For those preferring public transportation, check the local bus route for the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA). Take the bus heading towards the Grand Traverse Commons, and get off at the nearest stop on Red Dr. From the bus stop, walk towards the entrance of the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, which is well-marked. Make sure to check the bus schedule beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
Discover more about Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Barrel Room
0.8 km
Discover the essence of Traverse City at The Barrel Room, where exquisite wines and ciders meet a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Moonstruck Gardens
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and home decor in the serene atmosphere of Moonstruck Gardens, Traverse City's enchanting gift shop and garden haven.
Sanctuary Goods
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Sanctuary Goods, a charming gift shop and art gallery in Traverse City, Michigan.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
1.0 km
Explore the unique blend of history and modern charm at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City's vibrant shopping and cultural hub.
Loco Boys Brewing Company
1.8 km
Discover the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Loco Boys Brewing Company in Traverse City, a true gem for beer lovers and foodies.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
2.0 km
Experience the charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a unique indoor lodging in Traverse City, MI, blending historic elegance with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay.
Central Neighborhood Historic District
2.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Traverse City's Central Neighborhood Historic District, a charming journey into the past.
Frenchies Famous
2.3 km
Experience the taste of Traverse City at Frenchies Famous, where breakfast and lunch come together to create unforgettable meals.
Perry Hannah Home, Founder of Traverse City Michigan
2.4 km
Explore the Perry Hannah Home in Traverse City, Michigan, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of its founding figure and the city’s rich past.
Traverse City Whiskey Co.
2.6 km
Experience the art of whiskey making at Traverse City Whiskey Co., a premier distillery offering tastings, tours, and a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Handz On Art - Paint Your Own Pottery
2.6 km
Explore your artistic side at Handz On Art, Traverse City's premier pottery painting studio, perfect for families and friends looking for a creative outing.
7 Monks Taproom
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant craft beer culture at 7 Monks Taproom in Traverse City, where local brews and delicious food come together in a lively atmosphere.
Hotel Indigo Traverse City, an IHG Hotel
2.7 km
Discover luxury and local charm at Hotel Indigo Traverse City, the perfect retreat for tourists exploring Michigan's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
Maggy’s Vintage Shop
2.7 km
Explore the charm of Maggy's Vintage Shop in Traverse City - a treasure trove of antiques and vintage clothing that tells a story.
Old Town Playhouse
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of theater at Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City, where local talent brings captivating stories to life in an intimate setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hippie Tree
0.3 km
Experience the whimsical charm of Hippie Tree, an artistic landmark in Traverse City, Michigan, that celebrates love, creativity, and community spirit.
Traverse City Labyrinth
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at Traverse City Labyrinth, a beautiful park perfect for meditation, nature walks, and family picnics in Michigan's picturesque landscape.
The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park in Traverse City, Michigan, a perfect blend of nature, education, and tranquility.
Historic Barns Park
0.6 km
Discover the natural beauty and historical charm of Historic Barns Park in Traverse City, Michigan – a perfect escape into nature.
Cistern
0.6 km
Discover the Cistern in Traverse City, a stunning hiking area with diverse trails, scenic views, and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Left Foot Charley
0.8 km
Experience the essence of Michigan's wine country at Left Foot Charley Winery, a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts in Traverse City.
Traverse City State Hospital
0.9 km
Explore the historical richness of Traverse City State Hospital, where history and architecture converge in a stunning natural setting.
Traverse City Veterans Memorial Park
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and heartfelt tributes at Traverse City Veterans Memorial Park, a must-visit destination in Michigan for honoring our heroes.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
1.4 km
Experience adventure and relaxation at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Traverse City, featuring thrilling water slides, family activities, and cozy accommodations.
Kids Creek Park
1.8 km
Experience the natural beauty of Kids Creek Park, Traverse City - a family-friendly destination for hiking, picnicking, and exploring scenic landscapes.
Bay Life Getaways
2.3 km
Discover Traverse City with Bay Life Getaways, your expert tour operator for unforgettable adventures in Michigan's stunning landscapes.
Crooked Tree Arts Center - Traverse City
2.4 km
Discover the artistic heart of Traverse City at Crooked Tree Arts Center, where local art comes alive through exhibitions and workshops.
Hannah Park
2.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Hannah Park in Traverse City, a perfect spot for picnics, walks, and enjoying nature's serenity.
West End Beach
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of West End Beach in Traverse City, where sandy shores meet stunning sunsets and endless outdoor adventures await.
Lay Park
2.6 km
Discover tranquility at Lay Park, a beautiful green space in Traverse City featuring art installations, serene fountains, and family-friendly amenities.
Essential places to dine
S2S Sugar to Salt
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at S2S Sugar to Salt - where creativity meets quality in every dish.
Spanglish
0.8 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Spanglish in Traverse City—where vibrant flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Trattoria Stella
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Stella in Traverse City - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
PepeNero
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at PepeNero in Traverse City – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Red Spire Brunch House
1.0 km
Discover the culinary delights of Red Spire Brunch House in Traverse City - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Original Flap Jack Shack
1.3 km
Experience delicious breakfasts at Traverse City's Original Flap Jack Shack - where comfort food meets local charm in every bite.
Big Boy
1.4 km
Experience classic American dining at Big Boy in Traverse City with delicious burgers and family-friendly atmosphere.
Planted Cuisine
1.8 km
Experience vibrant plant-based cuisine in Traverse City at Planted Cuisine - where fresh flavors meet sustainability.
Slabtown Burgers
1.9 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at Slabtown Burgers in Traverse City - where fresh ingredients meet mouthwatering flavors.
Modern Bird
2.2 km
Experience modern cuisine at its finest in Traverse City with shareable plates and innovative flavors at Modern Bird.
Little G's Fusion Cuisine
2.2 km
Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine in Traverse City with unique dishes and vibrant flavors at Little G's.
Sleder's Family Tavern
2.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Sleder's Family Tavern in Traverse City – a historic spot for food lovers and families alike.
Forrest, A Food Studio
2.5 km
Discover exquisite farm-to-table cuisine paired with unique wines at Forrest, A Food Studio in Traverse City.
Blue Tractor Barbeque
2.5 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue and vibrant American flavors at Blue Tractor Barbeque in Traverse City—a must-visit culinary destination.
J & S Hamburg Downtown
2.6 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and hearty lunches at J & S Hamburg Downtown - Traverse City's cozy dining gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
High Five Threads
1.0 km
Discover trendy apparel and unique accessories at High Five Threads in Traverse City, where local fashion meets exceptional service.
The Haberdashery
1.0 km
Explore The Haberdashery in Traverse City for a unique selection of men's fashion that blends local charm with contemporary style.
Vintage du Jour
1.0 km
Explore Vintage du Jour in Traverse City, MI, for a unique selection of antiques and vintage treasures that connect you with the past.
B50 The Village Store
1.0 km
Explore B50 The Village Store in Traverse City for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Michigan's charm and creativity.
Antiquities Warehouse of Grand Traverse
2.4 km
Explore the Antiquities Warehouse of Grand Traverse for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with unique antiques and salvaged treasures.
Evil Queen
2.6 km
Explore the whimsical charm of Evil Queen in Traverse City, a home goods store offering unique treasures perfect for gifts or home décor.
Relish
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and locally crafted clothing at Relish, Traverse City’s charming gift shop that embodies Michigan’s creative spirit.
Enjoy Michigan
2.7 km
Explore the heart of Michigan through unique gifts and local crafts at Enjoy Michigan, a must-visit shop in Traverse City.
Adore Boutique
2.7 km
Discover unique fashion at Adore Boutique in Traverse City, where style meets quality in a charming shopping experience.
l.a.cool
2.8 km
L.A.Cool - Traverse City's chic women's clothing boutique featuring exclusive high-end brands and stylish fashion selections.
slip. vintage
2.8 km
Explore the charm of Slip Vintage in Traverse City, MI, where every piece of clothing tells a story and nostalgia meets style.
What To Wear
2.8 km
Discover unique fashion finds at What To Wear, a stylish clothing store in Traverse City, Michigan, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe upgrade.
Unparalleled Apparel
2.8 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts at Unparalleled Apparel in Traverse City, where local art meets shopping excellence.
Sincerely Betty
2.8 km
Discover chic women's clothing and stylish accessories at Sincerely Betty, a boutique gem in Traverse City, MI, perfect for fashion enthusiasts.
The Exchange Boutique
2.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
2.4 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Brady's Bar
2.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
Low Bar
2.7 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
2.7 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
Union Street Station
2.7 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Parlor TC
2.8 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
North Bar
2.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
The Pub
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
U And I Lounge
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
Beacon Lounge
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
3.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
3.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
33.9 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering sand dunes meet the serene waters of Lake Michigan.
Bucksnort Bar
38.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.