Hiking 

The refuge offers several trail systems that highlight the unique features of the area.  Trails are open year round, seven days a week, during daylight hours only.  Download Shiawassee NWR Trail System Map (PDF file - 494 KB).  No pets or horses are allowed on any of the trails.  Please note that trails may be closed for visitors' safety during hunting periods.  Download 2012 Hiking Trail Closures (PDF - 84 KB). 

Do you know what poison ivy looks like? Download the "Poisonous" Plants Brochure (PDF file - 454 KB) to help you identify poison ivy and other "poisonous" plants.

Trail Systems 

The Woodland Trail, located off of Center and Stroebel Roads on the north side of the refuge, offers over 4.5 miles of trails.  These rather primitive trails wind through bottomland hardwood forest and take you past historic landmarks left from the coal mining industry in the early 1900's.  Popular with mountain bikers, hikers and cross-country skiers.  Trail use may be limited due to seasonal flooding and wet conditions. Download Woodland Trail Map (PDF file - 397 KB).

The Ferguson Bayou Trail, located at the west end of Curtis Road on the south side of the refuge, offers over 4.5 miles of trails.  This trail follows graveled roads on the tops of dikes and offers views of croplands, sloughs, forests, fields, wetlands, and pools.  Two observation towers, equipped with spotting scopes, are located along this trail so you can take a closer look at ducks, geese, deer, and other wildlife.  Popular with hikers, skiers, and casual bicyclers. Download Ferguson Bayou Trail Map (PDF file - 406 KB).

The Wildlife Drive (Auto Tour Route)  

The refuge’s auto tour route, the Wildlife Drive, will TENTATIVELY open June 1 - October 4, from sunrise to sunset and October 5 - 24, from 1:00 p.m. to sunset. Please note that the route may be closed due to flooding, soft roads, or other special conditions such as events or wildlife needs, like nesting bald eagles. 

The Wildlife Drive meanders past forests, grasslands, marshes, open water pools, and the Shiawassee River. Visitors will have more opportunities to see a great diversity of wildlife.  Download a Wildlife Drive Map and Information Sheet (PDF file - 2369 KB).

The Cass River Unit, located in Bridgeport Township just off of I-75, has about one mile of trail.  The trail is mowed in the summer months.  The trail winds its way through an old apple orchard, along the Cass River and through upland forest, featuring beech, maple and other hardwood trees.  The Friends of Shiawassee NWR are seeking funds to improve and expand this trail. Download Cass River Unit Trail Map (PDF file - 314 KB).

Green Point Environmental Learning Center, located in Saginaw, offers over 2.5 miles of trails.  These trails wind through a bottomland hardwood forest and offer views of forest, fields, wetlands, and the Tittabawassee River. Trail surfaces range from mowed grass to woodchips to gravel.   Various groups use the trail system for educational purposes.  Bicycles are not allowed on Green Point's trails.  Popular trail with hikers and skiers.  Trail use may be limited due to seasonal flooding and wet conditions. Download Green Point Environmental Learning Center Trail Map (PDF file - 323 KB).