Just a short drive from downtown Grand Rapids, Long Road Distillers offers more than quality spirits—it’s your gateway to a rugged outdoor experience that blends hands-on adventure with the vibrant energy of West Michigan’s landscape. The distillery’s location near serene nature spots and forested trails allows visitors to combine a hike or paddle with a rewarding stop for craft cocktails and local brews.

Begin your visit with a hike along the nearby Millennium Park trails. These routes stretch between 1.5 and 5 miles, offering varied terrain that ranges from packed dirt paths to gentle inclines with elevation gains up to 400 feet. The forest conspires quietly overhead, trees shifting with the breeze, while the Rogue River weaves nearby, daring you to pause and drink in the moving water’s quicksilver reflections.

For paddlers, the Rogue River adds a different pace. Its currents push forward with steady resolve, suitable for beginner to intermediate kayakers. A paddle here is a practical and refreshing way to explore the landscape, especially during late spring and early fall when water levels are steady and water temperatures kinder.

When at Long Road Distillers itself, the open-air patio merges with the surrounding cornfields, making it an ideal spot to wind down. The distillery’s controls feel grounded—no frills, just expertly crafted drinks. Planning your visit around daytime hours maximizes your access to both outdoor vigor and the distillery’s hospitality.

Practical Tips: Bring sturdy, waterproof footwear for the trails, and pack a refillable water bottle to maintain hydration during warmer months. Timing is key: morning hours provide cooler conditions and better light for photography, while late afternoons offer softer shadows for landscape appreciation.

Safety on the trails means respecting their pace and recognizing their challenge—not as something to be conquered, but understood. Elevation gains test endurance but never overwhelm casual hikers. Weather can change swiftly, with winds rousing the treetops and urging hikers to layer appropriately.

Long Road Distillers isn’t just a place to drink—it's a hub where adventure and relaxation meet, offering visitors a complete outdoor experience in the Grand Rapids area. Whether you’re pounding the trail or drifting with the river’s current, it’s a chance to engage with nature that demands respect and rewards effort.