Michigan's state capital boasts a rail-trail, coursing along scenic riverbanks for 8 miles from the campus of Michigan State University to Old Town Lansing. The Lansing River Trail follows the Red Cedar River west to its junction with the Grand River, and then follows the Grand River north. Despite the urban setting you will experience wetlands and woodlands and probably catch sight of the trail's resident ducks, squirrels and butterflies. The paved path has sections of wooden boardwalk passing under highways and skirting out over the water, avoiding almost all contact with motorized traffic.
From the Clippert Street trailhead at the trail's southeast end you travel 1 mile before coming to the Aurelius Road trailhead and another half mile to Potter Park. The park is beautifully landscaped and its location-right on the Red Cedar River-offers a soothing atmosphere to feed ducks or simply take a break. It is also home to the Potter Park Zoo and is a popular stop for post-zoo picnics.
Next the trail crosses Pennsylvania Avenue via a wooden pedestrian bridge. An active railroad bridge parallels the trail at this point, and if your timing is right you may find yourself racing a train. Where the Red Cedar and Grand Rivers collide, you head due north along the Grand River toward downtown Lansing. A collection of historical and cultural locations speckle the route from here, starting with the Impression 5 Science Center and its planet walk. Next door is the River Walk Theater and the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.
Continuing north, beside the trail at mile 4 is the Lansing City Market. The market-in operation since 1909-is the place to stop for fresh local produce and handmade crafts. Shaded benches and tables in Adado Riverfront Park, adjacent to the market, make a great picnic spot.
Old Town Lansing-and the northern end of the rail-trail-provide some beautiful scenery. Simply stick to the path and you will see the peaceful Burchard Dam and the architecturally striking Brenke Fish Ladder, which allows fish to bypass the dam by scaling spiral steps. To wander through an art gallery or find a charming cafe, hop off the trail at mile 5 and visit downtown Old Town. The Turner-Dodge House is located at the trail's endpoint. This magnificent brick mansion, one of Lansing's most recognized landmarks, has been restored to reflect life in the 1800s. Arrange for a tour, drink tea on the porch, or at the very least stop to admire the beautifully manicured lawns and gardens before returning along this urban oasis of a trail.