Forest: Huron-Manistee National
Forest District:
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Districts
Description:
Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary
contains a self-guided walking tour trail through a variety of habitats. The
trail winds through oak-maple woodlands, alongside a stream and floodplain,
through old pine plantations, and on a boardwalk through a shrub swamp and
emergent wetland. A very nice variety of wildflowers can be seen along the way
including: pink lady’s slipper (Cypripedium acaule), round-leaved sundew
(Drosera rotundifolia), jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum), trailing
arbutus (Epigaea repens), swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), and columbine
(Aquilegia canadensis).
Viewing Information: The
shorter loop trail is approximately ½ mile; the full loop is approximately 1.5
miles long. The trail offers a moderately easy hike over relatively flat ground.
The trail offers 39 numbered viewing stations described in a guide obtained at
the trailhead. The guide contains a map of the trails and a description of the
different species that may be observed at each station.
Safety
First: The trail may be rough in spots. Exposed roots or muddy areas
may exist at times. Foot attire appropriate for walking over rough terrain is
recommended. The weather may be cool and rainy in the Spring or Fall;
appropriate thermal and moisture protection is recommended.
Directions: This site is located just west of Highway
M-37 approximately 4.5 miles south of Brohman and 6.8 miles north of White
Cloud. The green highway sign says “5-Mile Road”. Turn west on 5-Mile road and
travel west to the intersection with Felch Ave. Turn north on Felch Avenue
(gravel road) to the parking lot entrance road which is marked with a rustic
sign saying Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary.
Ownership and
Management: USDA Forest Service, Huron-Manistee National Forest,
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District (231) 745-4631.
Closest
Town: White Cloud, Michigan.
Swamp Roses and St. John Wart at the Loda Lake Wildflower
Sanctuary, Newaygo Michigan.