Railroad Point Natural Area Expansion

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This year the Conservancy begins its third land protection effort at the Railroad Point Natural Area. What started in 1996 with the initial protection of 66 precious acres, continues today bringing the Railroad Point Natural Area to more than 200 acres, spanning from Crystal Lake to the Betsie River! Click to learn more about Railroad Point’s Beginnings and the famous “Buck Rub” story.

After years of quiet talks, landowners nearby Railroad Point have offered to sell their property to expand the Natural Area. A newer, grander Railroad Point is emerging. One that more than doubles its acreage, adds wetlands and provides a wildlife corridor between Crystal Lake and the wild and scenic Betsie River.

Plans also called for a new trail creating access to stunning new views from the bluff overlooking Crystal Lake. The Mary Margaret Johnson Trail was completed in 2011 thanks to a generous early gift to this project in Mary Margaret’s honor from her husband, Walt Johnson. The new trail is a sustainable one, designed to showcase the full beauty of the natural area by following its beautiful contours. To learn more about the beautiful story behind the trail click here.

We are working to raise the remaining $232,166 required to secure the recent Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant of nearly one million dollars. Like the earlier protection efforts, it will take love and energy to rally around Railroad Point.

To learn more about the Railroad Point Natural Area expansion click here or call Sarah Naperala at 231-929-7911. And join us at any of the numerous events planned this summer!

Download a map of the project expansion here.