tourist

When you just want to get away from it all, get a breath of fresh air, and have some quiet time to yourself, the many parks and scenic gems in the Mancelona area provide spectacular views and ideal conditions for that alone time. Some of these secret hideaways are so well hidden, they are unnoticed by many who drive right on by them. Whether you're looking for a place to do a little fishing, hiking, have a picnic or take a nap beneath a shady oak tree, we've got the place for you! We've even thrown in the GPS locations to help you find them easier. Don't forget your camera! The views at many of these locations is nothing short of spectacular, and you may even see a deer or two during your journey!

Johnson Pond.
GPS: 44.53901N, -085.03320W

Located in the Village of Mancelona at the south end of Danforth Street. A variety of fish, including trout, bluegill and bass, make their home in this small pond. Fishing is open to children 14 and under. On the last Saturday of April, the community celebrates the opening of trout season by stocking the pond. Children line the banks, fishing to their heart's content, earning A silver dollar for their first catch of the day.

Green Lake.
GPS: N44.53025N, - 085.07807W

A beautiful lake in a spectacular setting. This is 80 acres of state land surrounded by wildflowers, northern hardwood and coniferous trees. Also visit nearby Henry Lake. Fishing is permitted.

Sand Lake
GPS: 44.52730N, - 084.55811W

My personal favorite! Sand Lake is located east of Mancelona off C38. Turn south on Sand Lake Rd. This beauty is snuggled deep in the woods at the end of an unimproved road. Thousands drive past, not aware of its existence. Sand Lake is a beautiful, peaceful area to escape and spend a few hours relaxing. Walk around the lake, or lay under a tree for an afternoon nap!

Jordan River Valley and Penney Bridge
GPS: (Bridge) 45.00845N, -085.01804W

Mother Nature fit a whole lot of beauty here! Several dirt roads wind through scenic Jordan River Valley, with the main one running from US 131 to M-66. Start on US 131 one mile north of Deadman's Hill Road. This 15 mile scenic road parallels the Jordan River from its headwaters along its path through the valley to Penney Bridge, at which point the road continues west to exit at Highway M-66. Seasonally, the area provides fishing, berry picking and morel mushrooming opportunities. Your visit to the Valley could easily be made into a day trip, depending on how often you get out of the car to explore. Be sure to include stops at the Fish Hatchery and Deadman's Hill. Consult the Antrim County map for the location of Marsh and Cascade Roads. Enjoy the waterfalls along Cascade Road. Jordan River Valley is accessible by car spring through fall. The area is a haven for snowmobiles in winter. * The Jordan River National Fish Hatchery is accessible by snowmobile in winter, from the seasonal Jordan River road. The hatchery leaves it's doors open 24 hours, 7 days, for snowmobilers to use restrooms. Free coffee.

Deadman's Hill.
GPS:45.02782N, -084.56309W

The period of early logging in the hills of the Jordan River valley was marred by several fatal accidents. The last known and best recalled tragedy took the life of 21 year old Stanley Graczyk, known as "Big Sam." A fun loving lumberjack soon to be married, he became legend on May 20, 1910 when he was killed while driving a team and big wheels loaded with logs down a steep slope at this site. The high point, with its commanding view of the valley, has ever since been known as Deadman's Hill.

Wetzel Lake. GPS Coordinates coming soon. Wetzel Lake is a local favorite swimming hole. Take US 131 north of Mancelona to Wetzel Lake Road, then turn east. The road dead ends at Wetzel Lake. Wetzel Lake Park is currently a day park offering visitors serene surroundings, picnic spots, and a favorite local swimming hole (non-motorized boats only with some exceptions). Located on state forest land, the park is operated jointly by the Township of Mancelona, and the County of Antrim with assistants from the Antrim Conservation District, in partnership with the Michigan DNR. Wetzel Lake is open May through October, morning to dusk.