Boardman River Hike

It has been a wet, cloudy weekend, but the fall colors have been spectacular.  We were able to get out for a 2+ mile hike late this morning at the Brown Bridge Quiet Area along the Boardman River outside Traverse City.  The river was once dammed up, but the dams were removed a few years ago.  The resulting river meanders through this area with several trails wonderful for hiking.

Trail Map
Trail Map

We started at the trailhead off Ranch Rudolf Rd near marker 13.  We hiked to number 11 and down the 200+ steps to the river level.  We headed east and followed the trail staying close to the river.  There were a few ponds with reflections of the fall color.

Reflection of Grasses
Reflection of Grasses

 

Reflections in a Pond
Reflections in a Pond

 

Meandering River and Fall Colors
Meandering River and Fall Colors

The river wind its way along mixed forests with brilliant colors.

Meandering River and Fall Colors
Meandering River and Fall Colors

 

Beautiful Trees
Beautiful Trees

 

Meandering River and Fall Colors
Meandering River and Fall Colors

 

Panoramic View of the Trees
Panoramic View of the Trees

 

Meandering River and Fall Colors
Meandering River and Fall Colors

 

Meandering River and Fall Colors
Meandering River and Fall Colors

We hiked a nice loop and headed back up another set of steps to the top.  There was a viewing platform that offered a great view of the river and what was once the lake.

Boardman River Valley from Viewing Platform
Boardman River Valley from Viewing Platform

We have hiked in this area before and will return.  It is easy to get to from Traverse City.  I hope you can check it out sometime.

Mark

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