For years, a beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline near Bay Harbor was quietly enjoyed by a few families and their friends. Now, thanks to the vision of the Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) and the generosity of many donors, this land has been transformed into a preserve that belongs to everyone. Welcome to Enji-minozhiiyaamigak, the Place of Peacefulness.
From Private Gem to Public Treasure
This 56-acre preserve is nestled in Bay Shore. It is a scenic spot between Petoskey and Charlevoix once known as a bustling train stop. With a quarter mile of Lake Michigan shoreline, the property had long been admired for its wide-open views of Little Traverse Bay, Bay Harbor, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs.
For decades, the Hause and Van de Grift families owned the property. They would generously welcomed friends and neighbors to enjoy it. But when the possibility of a sale arose, LTC member Jennifer Adderley recognized how important it was to keep this land protected. The first major gift was from the Terence and Jennifer Adderley Foundation. That was followed by support from the Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation and 160 additional donors. The land officially became a conservancy property in December 2023.
It’s now the largest remaining stretch of unprotected shoreline between Charlevoix and the Mackinac Bridge. It is also LTC’s biggest investment in land to date.
A Trail for Everyone
What makes Enji-minozhiiyaamigak especially meaningful is that it is more than just a preserve. The trail is accessible giving more people access to the beautiful views and trails. LTC created its first universally accessible trail here. They wanted to ensure that walkers, wheelchairs, strollers, and wheeled walkers could all make the journey. The half-mile path winds gently toward a large viewing deck overlooking the bay. The path and and deck offers everyone the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery.
For those wanting to get closer to the water, stairs lead down to the rocky shoreline. There you will find the sound of waves adds to the preserve’s tranquility.
Honoring Culture and Community
This preserve is more than natural beauty—it’s a place of cultural connection. Its name, Enji-minozhiiyaamigak, is an Anishinaabemowin word meaning “The Place of Peacefulness.” Throughout the preserve, signs written in both English and Anishinaabemowin, honor the language of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
Another highlight is a striking steel sculpture designed to resemble a Native American “marker tree,” crafted by students at the Industrial Arts Institute in Onaway. Within its branches, a map shows the historic lands of the Odawa people, adding depth and meaning to the overlook.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you come for a short stroll, a wheelchair-friendly adventure, or simply to sit quietly by the water, Enji-minozhiiyaamigak is a reminder of the beauty and peace that Northern Michigan’s land conservancies work so hard to protect.
If you’re visiting Petoskey or Charlevoix, make time to explore this preserve. Walk the trail, take in the view, and enjoy a true Place of Peacefulness.
