At a Glance
- Approximate address: 4635 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441
- Whitey’s Woods is a forested portion of Lake Harbor Park that offers visitors natural beauty and opportunities for quiet recreation.
- Trail length: 2.5 miles
- For more information, visit the City of Norton Shores Parks and Recreation.
Visitor Information
Lake Harbor Park hours are 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The park is accessible by foot, bike, car, and boat.
What to See
Whitey’s Woods is a forested dune section of Lake Harbor Park. Trails wind through a forest of tall hemlocks, white pine, and beach. From the forest, follow the trails through the park to reach nearby Lake Michigan.
Conservation Value
Whitey’s Woods contains forested dune habitat along the Lake Michigan shoreline and was a historic gathering area for the community to explore nature.
History
This property was once owned by Ralph “Whitey” Edlund. He and his family welcomed people, especially children, to come and share the wonders of his woods. Whitey used the land to teach others about the natural world and to leave a legacy for future generations.
When the property was listed for sale in 2000, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan partnered with the City of Norton Shores and the Lake Harbor Park Advisory Committee to raise the funds to purchase it and add it to the neighboring Lake Harbor Park.
