Grass RIver Natural Area Spring Events
Weekly Wildflower Walk
Every Tuesday starting May 5, 2026
10:30am-12:00pm
Free to attend, donations gratefully accepted
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails of Grass River Nature Area alongside knowledgeable docent Lyn Petty. Discover the stunning variety of wildflowers and learn to identify their unique beauty. As we wander, keep an ear out for the delightful melodies of the birds that call Grass River home. Join us every Tuesday at 10:30am to see new flowers in bloom. Donations are gratefully accepted.
Spring Fling at Dockside
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
5:00-9:00pm
The Dockside, 6340 Old Torch Lake Dr. Bellaire, MI 49615
There is no easier way to support Grass River Natural Area than enjoying food and drinks on the beautiful shores of Torch Lake. Join us at The Dockside south of Bellaire on Tuesday, May 5, from 5 pm to 9 pm where 50% of all food and drink proceeds benefit GRNA. Enjoy great food with wonderful people in a relaxing environment all while
supporting a great organization.
Family Playgroup
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Thursday, May 21, 2026
10:30-11:30am
Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors.
Spring Stewardship Day
Saturday, May 16, 2026
9:00am-12:00pm
As spring rains are falling and flower buds begin emerging, it is time to join in the spring cleaning at GRNA! Trail grooming, garden weeding, and window shining are a few of the many tasks for freshening up our grounds and Center in preparation for summer. No experience is necessary, just a pair of gloves, a "spring" in your step, and an open spirit. Pre-registration is encouraged - email Brian at stewardship@grassriver.org.
Morel Mania
Sunday, May 17, 2026
1:00-3:00pm
$10 per person
Learn how to identify fungi step-by-step. We will concentrate on the group "Morels and Their Look-alikes". We'll take a hike to look for the Marvelous Morel and ID our finds.
NMC Spring Wetland Wildflowers
Friday, May 22, 2026
1:00-3:00pm
Register through NMC Extended Ed
The spring wildflowers of Michigan's wetlands are unique and striking. Take a walk through Grass River's boardwalk trails that give you access to some of the most exquisite wetlands in northern Michigan as we learn the natural history and conservation of these gorgeous flowering plants. Register through NMC at: Spring Wetland Wildflowers - NMC Extended Education & Training
Birding by Ear
Saturday May 23, 2026
8:00-10:00am
$10 per person, please pre-register
The birds are singing but may be difficult to see this time of year as the trees begin to leaf out. Learn to ID birds by their songs and go for a birding walk. Grass River is a birding hotspot and a great place to learn and appreciate your birds
Sketching Wildflowers
Saturday, May 23, 2026
1:00-3:00pm
$10 per person
Learn how to draw spring wildflowers in your own sketchbook. It's a great way to learn about and to remember the blooms you see. All materials supplied.
