Grand Traverse County Parks Boost Recreation Access and Local Economy

Grand Traverse County’s Parks & Recreation department operates a broad network of public green space and facilities that shape recreation options and local economic activity. The department manages over 1,400 acres of parkland, about 20 miles of trails, 10 county parks and one property zoned as parkland. Its offerings combine passive recreation with partner-run active programs, from nature education to organized athletics.

Key county assets include Civic Center Park, home to the department office, Easling Pool and Howe Arena, along with pavilion rentals and athletic fields used year-round. Power Island functions as a seasonal recreational destination with campsites. The Natural Education Reserve hosts the Boardman River Nature Center and related programs, while the Keystone Soccer Complex and other athletic facilities support youth and adult sports leagues. Trail connectivity is strengthened by links to the VASA Pathway and regional routes that feed visitors into local businesses and downtown Traverse City.

Operational oversight rests with the Parks & Recreation Commission, appointed by the County Board of Commissioners. The commission meets monthly, and meeting schedules, agendas and minutes are posted on the county site to ensure public transparency. The department maintains typical park hours of 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., publishes park rules and maps, and makes pavilion, field and other facility reservations available online. Performance measures and annual facility reservation data are published by the county, providing a basis for evaluating usage and planning.

For residents and organizers needing practical details, the department’s office is at 1213 W Civic Center Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684 and can be reached at 231-922-4818. The county website lists staff contacts including the director and deputy director, plus bylaws and advisory committee resources for those seeking volunteer or planning roles.

The county’s parks system carries measurable community value. Facility rentals and regional trail connections generate direct and indirect spending that supports lodging, dining and retail during peak seasons. Parks also contribute to quality of life metrics that matter for household location decisions and property values. Long-term upkeep and strategic investment will determine whether the department can sustain trail maintenance, expand programming and accommodate rising demand for outdoor spaces. Residents and local officials will weigh those trade-offs as parks continue to serve as both community amenities and economic assets for Grand Traverse County.