Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Sedgwick Shores Preserve is located along the eastern shoreline of Lake Michigan in Emmet County, Michigan. This protected area encompasses a mosaic of habitats including sandy beaches, mixed hardwood forests, and dune ecosystems. The preserve lies just west of the Little Traverse Bay and spans several hundred acres of coastal land, providing critical habitat for numerous bird species, rare plants, and native wildlife. Historically, the area was used by Indigenous peoples and later saw minimal settlement, which has allowed the natural landscape to remain relatively undisturbed. Today, the preserve is managed to balance conservation with public access. Visitors enjoy walking the quiet trails that meander through forest and along the lake shore, where panoramic views of Lake Michigan’s sparkling waters are a highlight. Sedgwick Shores Preserve is a prime spot for migratory bird watchers, especially during spring and fall, with sightings of warblers, hawks, and waterfowl. The preserve also offers peaceful beach access, ideal for picnicking and photography. Notable landmarks include the expansive sandy beach frontage and the transitional dune-forest edge that supports a rich variety of flora and fauna. Its remote feel and lack of heavy infrastructure make it a cherished natural refuge near communities such as Harbor Springs and Petoskey. Whether for solitude, nature observation, or gentle hiking, Sedgwick Shores Preserve invites visitors to connect with Lake Michigan’s northern coastal environment.
