The Headlands includes approximately 600 acres of land with over two miles of rocky frontage on the Straits of Mackinac. The property represents the largest and least disturbed forest tract in the Mackinaw City vicinity. Its plant communities include a great deal of variety, and the lack of major disturbance over the years has allowed it to remain relatively intact. The property is a very important resting stop and staging area for birds migrating across the Straits of Mackinac. Raptors and neotropical birds alike make use of the Headlands in their migrational movements. The property hosts the endangered Dwarf Lake Iris and is thought to include the threatened Lake Huron Tansy and Pitcher’s Thistle.

Cross-country skiing, hiking, birdwatching, nature study, mountain biking and picnicking are available at the Headlands. From the Headlands it is possible to travel to Wilderness State Park entirely on public land, with only three road crossings.

The County of Emmet owns the land and will operate it as a public park. Little Traverse Conservancy played a major role in the acquisiton process, helping to obtain grant money. A conservation easement held by the Little Traverse Conservancy will help to assure that the property is not excessively developed and that it will remain available for public recreation.

Directions: From Mackinaw City, take Central Avenue west to its end. Turn South (left) one quarter mile to the entrance road on the right.