Reffitt Nature Preserve (George and Ada Reffitt Nature Preserve)

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Preserve Activities

Before You Head Out

Please review the preserve rules and the hunting rules, which very by preserve. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

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Reffitt Nature Preserve is a place of inspiration on many levels. During the 1990s Local businessman Ronald G. Reffitt showed great leadership in the local business community by choosing to balance development with conservation when creating the Penninsula Business Park East.  A northern Michigan native, Mr. Reffitt wished to develop his property but also understood the regional importance of preserving its critical natural features and distinct northern Michigan character.  To realize his vision Mr Reffitt worked tirelessly with Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC), local municipalities and other local businesses to create a business park where every effort has been made to retain mature trees and its natural character as well as, with land donations over several years to GTRLC, the George and Ada Reffitt Nature Preserve.  Reffitt is now an 87 acre property forever preserved and open to the public.

Reffitt Preserve encompasses wetlands, Mitchell Creek, and forests that play a key role in protecting water quality and host diverse wildlife species, and distinctive plant life. Hikers may explore the preserve by venturing along the 1.7 mile trail loop including narrow, meandering boardwalks, surrounded by lush tree and plant growth and walking paths winding over distinct dune and swale complexes (small wooded hills rising above low-lying wetlands). The Preserve is a quiet and secluded hiking destination with convenient proximity to Traverse City as well as residential and commercial areas.  Reffitt is situated between Three and Four Mile roads adjacent to the Traverse City State Park and the popular TART trail.  To help navigate the preserve please check out and download our preserve map.

For directions to Reffitt please click the map below and type in your address.

Grand Traverse County. 87 acres.

Maps + Directions

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Mountain Biking is indicated where there are marked trails that are designed for and capable of handling bike traffic.
Birding can be done on all properties so we have added an icon to lands that are either exceptional for birding in uniqueness or diversity or are being specifically managed for bird habitat.
Fishing is indicated where it is a primary feature of the property.
Hiking is indicated where there are marked trails.
Hunting is indicated where it is legal to hunt however each preserve has specific stipulations which are specified for each preserve.
Kayaking/Canoeing is indicated on properties that either have a put-in on the land or have off-property public access proximal to the preserve. Some preserves are only accessible by boat.
Sanctuary properties have ecologically sensitive features and active use is discouraged.
Parking is indicated where there are designated areas for parking. Many lands do not have specific parking so please be safe and respectful of your parking choices when you visit a preserve w/o designated parking.
Skiing / Snowshoeing is indicated where back country (non groomed) skiing and snowshoeing is recommended and the road and/or parking lot is plowed.
Scenic Vistas are indicated where a grand view of the surrounding area is available.
Trail Running is indicated where there are marked trails that are capable of handling the rigors of trail running and are at least one mile in length.
Swimming is indicated where there is specific access to water and is swimming is a primary feature of the property.
Volunteers are needed at this preserve.