Lansing River Trail

Whether you bike it, run it, walk it, or paddle by it, the Lansing River Trail is one of Lansing’s most treasured assets. This 17 mile trail traces the banks of the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers and winds through artsy neighborhoods, historic sites and activities of all sorts.

Lansing History

Take a peek inside the home that Lansing pioneer James Turner built for his family. The Turner- Dodge House and Heritage Center is on the northernmost part of the trail, making it a great place to start.

Serene and Green

If you’re looking for a natural area to stop and rest, the trail winds by and through many green spaces and parks. Pack a picnic and take a break at Adado Riverfront Park (famous for all its festivals), Rotary Park, Cooley Gardens or Hawk Island Park with its lake, splash pad and seasonal sledding hill.

Paddle/Walk/Ride/Run

There’s no better way to get to know Lansing than walking or running the trail. But if you want to try something else, River Town Adventures is the place to rent a bike, canoe, paddleboard or kayak.

Libations

When thirst or hunger strikes, fuel up at Sir Pizza Grand Café where you can find a table with a river view, at MP Social on the elevated balcony view overlooking the River Trail and the Grand River, or head a block into the Stadium District to hit up your choice of craft breweries and distilleries like Lansing Brewing Company or Michigrain Distillery.

Urban Attractions

In Old Town make a stop at the Brenke Fish Ladder, a great spot to watch salmon by-passing the dam and heading upstream in season. As you come into the downtown area, you’ll pass by Museum Drive’s attractions: Riverwalk Theatre, Impression 5 Science Center and R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. Keep following the Planet Walk along the Red Cedar River and you’ll come upon Potter Park Zoo.

Campus Connections

Find many beautiful art installations and the pretty urban oasis of Shigematsu Japanese Garden at Lansing Community College. On another portion of the trail you can roam over 100 miles of sidewalks at Michigan State University in East Lansing.

Unique Neighborhoods and Landscapes

You’ll meander through some distinct neighborhoods on your journey like Old Town, REO Town and downtown Lansing. Traverse marshlands, prairies, urban landscapes along with manicured parks and gardens.

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