This Pickerel Lake 2-Mile Hiking Loop is Perfect for Kids

Read this Before You Hike the Trails at Pickerel Lake Park

Pickerel Lake Park/Fred Meijer Nature Preserve

6001 Ramsdell Dr NE, Rockford, MI 49341

This 2-mile loop takes you around Pickerel Lake in Rockford.

You’ll see great views of the lake and surrounding woods while you walk. While there are some hills, part of the trail is a boardwalk over the water. Bonus: This part of the trail can be easily accessed by stroller.

_{The Parks, Playgrounds & Trails Directory is proudly presented by John Ball Zoo. We are grateful for their support!}

John Ball Zoo parks sponsorship banner — *_{Missing the Zoo? Enjoy a private stroll to spend time with Yoshi, the baby Canada lynx, or Wyatt & Wasabi the red pandas and enjoy having the Zoo to yourself.}*
*_{Book your weekend tour online or call us for a weekday tour.}*

If you’re feeling extra-ambitious, there are also a number of offshoot trails if you want to get in extra miles and more challenging terrain. But many visitors simply enjoy the quick walk of the main loop.

Pickerel Lake spans nearly 80 acres, with the park offering over 300 acres of walking and wildlife observation. This is a popular place for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Pickerel Lake Park At a Glance

Trail Difficulty: Moderate, with some hills.

Dogs Allowed? No, as this is a nature preserve.

Facilities: Restrooms May – Oct; port-a-john the rest of the year.

Stroller Friendly? Partially.

Time of Year Accessible: Open year round.

Also known as Fred Meijer Nature Preserve, Pickerel Lake Park is a fun place to fish. (The boardwalk is a good spot for this).

With such diverse terrain and varying environments, you’ll want to keep a lookout for a range of wildlife as you hike.

The trails are open through the winter for cross country skiing.

Make New Friends by Joining Hike It Baby

Want to hike with other mom friends around Grand Rapids? Check out Hike It Baby – a group dedicated to raising kids with a love of the outdoors. Their active Grand Rapids branch Facebook group hosts a variety of events including trail hikes, urban strolls, toddler crawls to park and plays.