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Alden · US

Coy Mountain Natural Area

Coy Mountain Natural Area is a small, storied forest preserve perched on a ridge overlooking Torch Lake in the village of Alden, Michigan. Established in 1885 when mill owner Reuben Coy chose to spare a stand of virgin hardwoods from the axes of the lumber boom, the preserve protects what was once the last remnant of giant maples and beeches in a heavily logged region. Today, a beautifully maintained trail loop leads hikers up through the mature forest to benches where turquoise Torch Lake flashes through the treetops. Owned and managed by Helena Township with trail design by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Coy Mountain is a community treasure—a short, satisfying woodland walk that rewards visitors with big forest character and a genuine lake glimpse for modest effort. It is open year-round, free to enter, and offers seasonal pleasures: wildflowers in spring, shade in summer, fiery color in October, and quiet snowshoeing in winter.