I have spent seven years living in Jackson County, and I am still learning about all of the trailhead parking lots for the Falling Waters Trail! After viewing The Greetings Tour “Welcome to Jackson” Mural during Bright Walls 2021, I knew I had to visit the section of the trail that they illustrated. (Since we usually travel the Falling Waters Trail on foot, we had never made it that far!)
This section of the trail is so beautiful that we had to showcase it as our first Fall Color Tour Stop for Jackson County. Now let me be fully honest with you here. If I told my kids we were heading out on a fall color tour, I don’t imagine that they would be excited to join me. Enjoying the perks of autumn in Michigan is something I love to do, but I am not sure Big and Little are there yet. However, they do love to get outside to explore new places, which makes a fall color tour the best of both worlds for all involved.
Big and Little both loved different aspects of this destination, and it would be the perfect location to do a rainbow scavenger hunt! Lime Lake in any season is beautiful, but as the fall colors continue to brighten, this will be a can’t miss spot! Keep reading for more details!
Location Name: Falling Waters Trail at the Teft Road Trailhead
Address: 5129 Teft Road, Spring Arbor Township, MI 49283
Why we love it: Scenic views, smooth paved trail, plenty space for Little to walk/run without a busy road crossing, and friendly people saying greeting you as they pass
Features: Miles of trail passing by Lime Lake, picnic tables, lake access, native foliage, tire pump and restrooms at the parking lot, and a little free library near the Teft Road crossing
“Big’s Review”: Keep a lookout for the secret passages that lead to the lakes. Don’t forget to bring snacks!
Elizabeth’s Suggestion: Pack a picnic and enjoy lake views while you eat.
Toddler Approved? Yes
Stroller friendly? Yes
Big Kid Approved? Yes
Full Sun or Shade? Areas of each
Restroom? Yes – at the trailhead parking lot
Cost? Free
Parking? Ample parking in the trailhead lot
Hours: Dawn until dusk
Website: https://www.co.jackson.mi.us/1218/Falling-Waters-Trail
Closing Review: Since our initial visit, we have been back a few times. The most recent time, Little happily ran the path while gathering leaves and sticks. Meanwhile, I took in the fall colors and grabbed some photos, and appreciated the fact that we discovered yet another kid-friendly location in Jackson County!
