In 1988, the Michigan Audubon Society received as a gift the M.E. and Gertrude Gray home and property, which later became Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary. Atop an 100- foot-high bluff overlooking beautiful Lake Michigan, Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary boasts over 1,700 feet of Lake Michigan frontage on its 75 acres located just north of Manistee, MI. Originally landscaped as an arboretum, many notable specimens have been preserved on the grounds surrounding the home such as California Redwood, Ginkgo, and two Michigan Champion Trees, a Giant Sequoia and a Sycamore Maple. Over 170 different types of birds have been seen on the property, there are many resident woodpeckers, and eagles are frequently seen flying up the beach or perching in the trees along the shore. Lake Bluff is a quiet place; one that most people find relaxing due to its serene natural habitat.
The grounds at Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary are open to the public year-round, every day from dawn until dusk. No appointment is necessary; just stop by, park your vehicle and begin to explore the natural beauty of this jewel on Lake Michigan’s shore.
Lake Bluff is a great place to stop and visit, hike, bird-watch, go to the beach, have a picnic, or just plain relax. See the list below for other ways you might enjoy the property:
- Maintained Trails: Two miles of hiking trails offer stunning views. It’s not unusual to spot white-tailed deer along the trails. Hike through mature forest or around the property and to the beach.
- Beach Access: Visitors have easy access to Lake Michigan’s beautiful, sandy shoreline for beach walks, sunbathing, swimming and other water activities.
Parking is ample and restrooms are available. Lake Bluff is a smoke-free and pet-free environment.