The park contains one of the largest remaining stands of original hemlock trees in the mid-Michigan area.
During the winter, the park maintains approximately 12 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails.
The facility includes a heated chalet that serves as a warming station for winter sports enthusiasts.
A portion of the park is maintained as a dedicated mountain bike trail system suitable for various skill levels.
The sledding hill is equipped with overhead lighting to allow for evening use during the winter season.
The forest ecosystem acts as a critical local watershed area for the nearby Salt River drainage basin.
Midland City Forest is a 520-acre municipal park serving as one of the few remaining examples of native hemlock-hardwood forest in the region. The park features an extensive network of trails dedicated to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking. During winter months, the site maintains a lighted sledding hill and a dedicated ice rink. The area functions as a year-round recreation hub with specialized facilities for both winter sports and warm-weather hiking. It serves as a significant conservation zone for local flora and fauna within the city limits. The terrain is largely forested with a mix of pine and hardwood stands.
The elevated observation point overlooking the main sledding hill during sunset.
Check the official city website for trail grooming status before visiting in winter.
Bring bug spray during summer and early autumn months due to dense forest cover.
Use the trail maps provided at the main kiosk to navigate the various intersections in the wooded interior.
Attempting to use paved-surface bicycles on rugged mountain bike trails or wandering off-trail into marshy areas.
Winter sport facilities like the ice rink and ski trails are seasonal; the park grounds are open year-round.
Stay on marked trails to protect native vegetation; keep pets on a leash at all times.
