With the help of donors and volunteers, we are transforming a degraded landscape into a healthy, biodiverse natural area.
With nearly three miles of trails, The Highlands is a perfect place to visit for a nature fix right in Grand Rapids.
Whether you’re looking to plant trees or enjoy a restorative yoga session, there’s something at The Highlands for you.
Help us take care of The Highlands! Please review our guidelines before hitting the trails.
Construction is Underway at The Highlands
Planned improvements to The Highlands include a new entrance, parking lot and play area that incorporates natural elements. We are excited about these changes and look forward to the completion of the project in spring of 2026.
Please note that during this time, the normal entrance to The Highlands at 2715 Leonard Street will be temporarily closed. Visitors are encouraged to park at Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Avenue NW, where an accessible trail connects from the parking lot to the trails at The Highlands.
A natural collaboration
The Highlands is a collaboration between Blandford Nature Center and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to transform a former golf course into a healthy and thriving urban natural area.
