Big Rapids: Discover the Riverwalk, art, and trails

Big Rapids offers several distinct points of interest to consider when planning a stay: the Riverwalk along the Muskegon River, recreational trails, public art, educational venues, and a seasonal farmers’ market. Depending on whether you plan to spend more time by the river, exploring cultural attractions, or enjoying the outdoors, these features can help shape your itinerary.

Riverwalk and the Muskegon River

The Big Rapids Riverwalk follows the Muskegon River from downtown north to Northend Riverside Park. It begins at Hemlock Park. The paved trail has four fishing platforms along the route, and at its northern end it connects directly to White Pine Trail State Park. The riverside trail, fishing platforms, and connection at the end of the route are all specific features to consider when planning your visit. Check seasonal trail conditions before you go.

Further afield in the region, White Pine Trail State Park stretches for 93 miles, from north of Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Hemlock Park also has a kayak launch. If you plan to use it, check the latest operating information in advance.

Art and educational venues

The Card/Riley Conservation and Wildlife Education Center is a 5,000-square-foot facility on the Ferris State University campus in Big Rapids, Michigan. It serves as an educational resource for university students, schoolchildren in grades K–12, and members of the broader Michigan community. The Jim Crow Museum is also located on the Ferris State University campus in Big Rapids. It uses objects of intolerance to teach tolerance and promote a more just society. The two venues have different educational focuses: the Card/Riley Center serves the groups mentioned above, while the museum’s mission centers on education through objects of intolerance.

The Public Art Collective brings together 34 large-scale artworks in the historic downtown, local parks, and on the Ferris State University campus. The collection, which is freely accessible, includes sculptures, paintings, and mosaics. Individual installations may be added or relocated, so the collection may change.

In the heart of Big Rapids is the Painted Turtle Gift Shop. It offers works by more than 100 Michigan artists, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, books, and textiles. The specific selection may change.

Trails and outdoor activities

Hungerford Recreation Area in Big Rapids has separate trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There are 35 miles of trails for horseback riding. The different uses give you a specific point of reference when choosing an activity: options range from hiking and mountain biking to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while the 35-mile figure applies to the horseback riding trails.

Swede Hill Park is used as a launch point for tubing on the Muskegon River. Outdoor options therefore differ in focus: Hungerford offers separate trails for various activities, while Swede Hill Park is associated with access for tubing.

Seasonal market

The Big Rapids Farmers’ Market runs from May to October and offers produce, plants, and baked goods. If the market factors into your travel plans, check the dates for your specific travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Remus.

Go to the main travel guide: Mecosta County.