Ken-O-Sha Park: Find the Giant Amplifier & Try the New Nature Playground

Ken-O-Sha Park

ken-O-Sha Park

1353 VAN AUKEN SE, GRAND RAPIDS MI 49508

natural and paved trail near Plaster Creek
Trial Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leash
Facilities: No restrooms
Stroller Friendly? Main areas, yes. Not the trails
Time of Year Accessible: Open year-round.

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Ken-O-Sha Park is a large park perfect for a day of exploring the woods with the kids.

Located right in the city, it’s a popular spot for locals who want to hike without the drive. The mature shade trees and pretty views of Plaster Creek make this an easy favorite. Wildlife are easy to spot here, and kids might like hunting for frogs.

The paved trail is nice for a bike or stroller ride.

And don’t miss a stop at the Amplifier, located along the trail by Plaster Creek.

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Ken-O-Sha Park is one of over 50 walking trails and over 85 playgrounds in West Michigan.

Park Amenities

  • Basketball Court
  • Hiking trails
  • Paved bike paths
  • Pavilion
  • Picnic Tables
  • Playground
  • Dogs on leash
  • Urban

Ken-O-Sha’s Playground is Part of the New Outdoor Education Space

Ken-O-Sha park recently received lots of upgrades, including a new outdoor learning area with a nature playground and wooden bridge over Plaster Creek.

The new wooden amplifier is also a fun stop for kids and adults alike.

Ken-O-Sha amplifier wide view

Find this giant megaphone along the trail by Plaster Creek.

Ken-O-Sha Park kids walking through amplifier

It’s designed to amplify the sounds of nature when you climb into it.

Ken-O-Sha Park view of woods through amplifier

Directed towards the water below, the amplifier captures the rustling of leaves and rapids of the creek. 

Ken-O-Sha Has Both Paved and Dirt Hiking Trails

Ken-O Sha has one wide, paved walking and biking path with unpaved hiking trail offshoots.

The shaded path follows the river, making for gorgeous walks or bike rides.

Since it’s wide and smooth, the walking path at Ken-O-Sha Park is also accessible.

shaded walking path ken-o-sha park

You’ll find wooden paths throughout the 1.6 mile loop to help cross some more challenging areas as well as a bridge over picturesque Plaster Creek.

Ken-O-Sha Park boardwalk

You’re sure to see some beautiful wildflowers on the prairie in progress and may even see some deer.

Ken-O-Sha wildflowers

While hiking the trail, look for the Big Rock.

This glacial rock is a remnant of the glaciers that used to cover Michigan.

Ken O Sha Park big rock

There may be fallen tree limbs across the path at times so it may be hard to push a stroller on the natural trails.

Ken-O-Sha Park loop map
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Don’t Leave Without Stopping by the Amplifier

While you’re exploring Ken-O-Sha Park, make sure to look for the amplifier.

Ken-O-Sha amplifier wide view

The giant wooden megaphone called the Amplifier at Ken-O-Sha Park is located along the trail by Plaster Creek.

Ken-O-Sha Park kids walking through amplifier

It’s designed to amplify the sounds of nature when you climb into it.

Ken-O-Sha Park view of woods through amplifier

Directed towards the water below, the amplifier captures the rustling of leaves and rapids of the creek. 

Ken-O-Sha Park kids peek into amplifier

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Find your next outdoor adventure near you with this map of the best hiking trails, playgrounds, and parks in West Michigan.

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