Hike the Ledges Trail at Grand Ledge
What a find! It’s hard to believe this hike exists in Lower Michigan with its sandstone cliffs and ledges. Fitzgerald Park is home to the famous Ledges of Grand Ledge, near Lansing. The 2.5 mile, out and back, trail is an ideal hike for children with its many reward spots. The park also has a large playground, restrooms, ball fields and an additional 5 miles of hiking trails.
Gorgeous views await on this hiking adventure. On one side of the trail stands the impressive sandstone cliffs and ledges, while Grand River runs along the opposite side.
PARKING Ample parking can be found at Fitzgerald Park, a 78 acre county park. There is an entrance fee $3.00 resident/ $5.00 non-residents.
TRAILHEAD To locate the trailhead follow the paved walking trail East passed the Baseball diamonds and playground. Once you pass the large red barn called the Ledges Playhouse, a theater venue seating 348, you will be at the The Ledges Trailhead.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Descend down a set of stairs to access the trail. An ideal hiking distance (approx. 2.5 miles) for children on an out-and-back trail. Plan to give yourself additional time if you have children who love to stop and explore. We spent close to 2 hours, although an hour would suffice.
Rock climbers scaling the cliffs at Oak Park across the Grand River
This impressive shaded trail will keep everyone entertained as they explore the out-cropping ledges. Pass over the dam and Sandstone Creek. This is a great spot for photo opportunities. Beautiful views of the Grand River and The Ledges continue until you pass the railroad track bridge. Look across the river and you can spot rock climbers on the opposite side of the river. If you have enough time or want to climb the Ledges, check out Oak Park.
An additional 5 miles of trails, located on the West side of the park, include West Wood, Acorn Trail Loop, Nature Center Loop and Hemlock Loop.
AMENITIES
You can easily spend a half day at the park, so pack a picnic. Pets are allowed on a 6 foot leash.
The playground is huge with a large modern play structure including multiple slides and monkey bars. There is also a merry -go-round, both infant and child swings, and bouncers. Benches and picnic tables are located throughout the park.
Additional amenities include frisbee golf, baseball diamonds, pavilions, half basketball court, and restrooms.
We visited this park while we camped at nearby Sleepy Hollow State Park. This park has the best of both worlds, where you can relax in nature or spend the day exploring Lansing or Grand Ledge. Here is our full review and Trip Guide for Sleepy Hollow State Park.
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HIKING BACKPACK
Having a hiking day pack stocked and ready has made hiking so much more manageable for our family. Instead of running around trying to collect items before we leave, I leave my pack in my vehicle ready to go. All I need to do is fill our water bottles and grab the stash of granola bars or snacks.
My favorite hiking day pack is the TETON Oasis Sports Day Pack, which can be purchased here on Amazon. It is affordable, lightweight, durable and includes a water hydration pack & rain cover. Wondering what to keep stocked in your day pack? Check out this post Hiking with Kids: Tips and Packing List.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Corner Café in Grand Ledge has delicious flavor blasted ice cream
Oak Park is on the opposite side of the Grand River and has beautiful trails along the Ledges, it is the lesser known park than Fitzgerald Park. Plus you can watch the rock climbers on the Ledges and climb upon the rocks yourself.
BrickHaven Brewing in Grand Ledge has great food & beers
Impression 5 Science Center in Lansing is a hands on science center that will entertain the whole family. Check it out here
Take some pictures by Murals and see the State capital
Lansing Brewing in Lansing is the spot to grab a flight of beer. Plus, outside seating with yard games for the kids.
As gases prices continue to rise, camping closer to home is an ideal way to still enjoy summer and fall camping. Known for their spooktacular Halloween and fall camping activities for kids, here is a full review and trip guide to Sleepy Hollow State Park near Lansing. This Michigan state park on Ovid Beach has tons of hiking, biking & horse backing riding trails, and a large playground.