Palomita Reserve

A popular stop along the Lakeshore Connector Path that spans the 20-mile stretch between Grand Haven and Holland, the overlook at Palomita Reserve rewards visitors with panoramic views of the marsh and frequent wildlife sightings. For those looking to get off the beaten path, a loop trail leads past forests, fields, and wetlands to the heart of the preserve.

Conservation Value

Palomita Reserve protects the Great Lakes marsh at the mouth of Little Pigeon Creek. The marsh protects critical habitat for more than 100 species of birds, provides spawning areas for several species of Great Lakes fish, and improves Lake Michigan water quality by filtering out sediments and pollution generated upstream. The preserve supports more than 250 native plant species, including one that is threatened in Michigan.

What’s New

The Land Conservancy is protecting the marsh by removing invasive species like oriental bittersweet, purple loosestrife, and narrow-leaved cattail that have become established near the road.

History

This area along Little Pigeon Creek was once a popular staging site for huge flocks of passenger pigeon.  The effects of overhunting and the timber industry led to the unfortunate extinction of this bird by the end of the 19th century. “Palomita” is Italian for “little pigeon.” This property was donated to the Land Conservancy by the Sebastian family in 1995 to preserve the spectacular natural area for generations to come.

Visitor Information

Bikers and walkers can access the preserve via the Lakeshore Connector Path, which runs along the west edge of the preserve. Parking is available along Lakeshore Drive, just south of where Little Pigeon Creek crosses the road.