Island Park

Hidden within the cityscape, Island Park & Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique 17-acre nature reserve. It is located on a picturesque island in the heart of Alpena, USA. The island is surrounded by the waters of the Thunder Bay River, which flows through extensive wetlands, creating ideal conditions for birds and wildlife.

The history of this site as a public park began in 1985 when the city acquired the land with support from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund. Since then, the park has become the true "green heart" of the city, allowing residents and tourists to instantly escape the urban environment for an untouched world of nature.

It is more than just a park for a stroll; it is a full-fledged wildlife sanctuary, where a fragile ecosystem is preserved across 500 acres of surrounding lands. Visitors value it for its peace, the chance to see rare birds, and the feeling of complete seclusion without ever leaving the city limits.

To clarify details before your visit, you can use the park's official contact information. Below is the essential contact information.

In Island Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. The main highlight of this place is its extensive network of nature trails. Walking along them, you will pass through a variety of ecosystems: from sand dunes and open meadows to dense forests and mysterious cedar swamps. It is an ideal spot for hiking, morning runs, or quiet nature photography.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the local inhabitants. You can often spot deer, scurrying squirrels, turtles, frogs, and rabbits here. For birdwatchers, there is a dedicated viewing platform, which is also wheelchair accessible.

If you want to swap your walk for a water adventure, embark on a journey along the Blue Heron Water Trail, which circles the sanctuary. For family outings, the park provides picnic areas with grills for dining in the fresh air. Young explorers will surely enjoy a popular local activity—watching snails and frogs in the park's marshy areas.

Finding this natural haven is easy: Island Park is located at the intersection of US-23 and Long Rapids Road. The main entrance to the sanctuary is through the adjacent Duck Park, located right on River Street.

One of the most notable features of the approach is the wooden covered bridge, built by craftsman Michael Kendziorski. This bridge connects the mainland to the island and is an attraction in its own right. A landmark for the start of your walk is the majestic, handmade wooden water tower located at the bridge entrance.

For those who prefer public transport or taxis, the park can be reached from the city center in just a few minutes, as it is located practically within the city limits. This makes it accessible even for a short stroll during the day.

The land where Island Park sits today holds the memories of many generations. For a long time, the island was home to Native Americans. The last tribal chief in these parts was Sah-gon-ah-ka-to, whose name translates as "Thunder Cloud"; he lived a long life and passed away in 1869 at the age of 93.

In the mid-19th century, the island briefly became a hub for the fishing industry. In 1845, a fishing village emerged here, home to about 160 people and supported by an impressive fleet of 31 vessels. It was on this island in 1846 that the first store in what would become Alpena County was opened.

However, the settlement was short-lived. As the territory transitioned to federal ownership, residents had to leave their homes and move to the nearby Sugar Island. Today, only the silence of nature, carefully preserved by the city, serves as a reminder of its bustling commercial past.

To leisurely stroll through all the trails and enjoy the tranquility of the sanctuary, visitors are recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to explore the island, take beautiful photographs, and observe the local fauna.

If you plan to have a picnic or decide to head out on the water trail by kayak, you should budget half a day for your visit. Nature itself dictates the pace here, so there is no need to rush—this place is designed for contemplation and an escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

One of the park's main advantages is its accessibility. Island Park is open to visitors 24/7, seven days a week. This allows you to enjoy the morning mist over the river or watch the sunset in the quiet of the forest at any time that suits you.

Nevertheless, it is recommended to check the official city website before your trip to ensure there are no temporary restrictions due to events or seasonal maintenance work.

A visit to the island can easily be combined with exploring other local points of interest. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to learn more about the region's history and enjoy its architectural landmarks.