Last month I spent some time in Alden, MI on the shores of Torch Lake. Unknown to many visitors who are there to swim and boat the beautiful waters of Torch Lake, right in the heart of town is a trail system through a wonderful natural area known as Coy Mountain Natural Area.

The Coy Mountain Natural Area dates back to 1885 when Reuben Coy decided to preserve a ridge forested in virgin hardwoods that towered behind his gristmill. It was the last remnant of the giant maples and beeches in a region that had been heavily clear cut by loggers.

The 11-acre tract remained in the Coy family until 1958 when Reuben’s daughter-in-law deeded the property to a group of trustees with the intentions of preserving Coy Mountain “for the use and benefit of the Villagers of Alden and the surrounding communities”. The trustees presented the land to Helena Township in 1985.

Additional land donations from local residents enlarged the park to it’s current 17 acres. The construction of the trail system was an Eagle Scout project with Alden Volunteers assisting to expand and complete the project and the Alden Lumber Company donating the materials. Other groups, from Michigan Youth Corps to Mancelona Public Schools, have put in their time to help preserve this mountain in the middle of this small Antrim County town.

While the town of Alden is 604 feet above sea level, elevations in the Coy Mountain Natural Area get as high as 775 feet.  While the 171 foot climb over the 1.5 mile trail can be challenging at times, it is well worth it. Despite the fact that the last virgin trees in the forest were stolen around 1993, the American Beech, Sugar Maple and Hemlock that make up most of the forest are breathtaking.

While Torch Lake is the main attraction in town, if you are heading to northern, MI and find yourself in Alden, definitely take the time to hike the Coy Mountain Preserve.

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