Clay Cliffs Natural Area
Lake Leelanau, Leelanau County
Hiking Trails | Snowshoeing Trails
This stunning natural area created in partnership with Leland Township protects 1,700 feet of shoreline on both Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan. The sheer clay bluff hosts a rare and fragile ecosystem. Eagles that nest here swoop over the lake in search of prey. The steep, forested slopes are particularly beautiful in the slanting light of dusk, and especially when the trillium are in bloom. Clay Cliffs’ hardwood forest shelters one of Leelanau’s most prolific wildflower sites. An overlook at the bluff top shows off panoramic lake views while a meadow located midway along the trail features sparkling views of Lake Leelanau.