Exploring the Historic Treat Farm Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes
Step into the past while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Michigan on the Treat Farm Trail, a hike that offers both historical insights and natural beauty.
Unveiling the Treat Farm Trail: A Hike Through History
The Treat Farm Trail, nestled within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offers a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. This 1.1-mile trail invites hikers to explore the past while reveling in the picturesque landscapes of Michigan.
Starting Your Journey: Norconk Road Trailhead
Begin your adventure at the Norconk Road trailhead, where a scenic hike through a maple-beech forest awaits. The trail, approximately half a mile long, winds through the woods, leading to the historic Treat Farm. As you ascend, the dense canopy opens up, revealing a charming farmstead that dates back to the early 20th century.
The Allure of the Treat Farmstead
Visitors are drawn to the Treat Farm for various reasons. The trail itself is captivating, with its gradual incline and seasonal displays of wildflowers. Upon reaching the farm, hikers are greeted by an array of historical buildings, including the old farmhouse, barns, a unique garage, and a root cellar. These structures provide a glimpse into the lives of the Treat family and the farming practices of the era.
Exploring the Historic Buildings
The first structure on this property, believed to be a log cabin built around 1840, was used as a playhouse for children until the 1930s. Though no evidence of the log house remains, the current farmhouse, constructed around 1880, stands as a testament to the area's rich history. Charles Treat and his wife, Martha, purchased the land in 1912 and reassembled a barn from Detroit, which was transported in pieces by railroad.
Seasonal Beauty and Recreational Opportunities
The Treat Farm Trail offers beauty and adventure in every season. In spring and summer, the trail is adorned with wildflowers, while autumn brings a vibrant display of colored leaves against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. Winter transforms the trail into a haven for skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the hike to Old Baldy provides a panoramic vista of the surrounding landscape.
The Engineering Feats of Charles Treat
Charles Treat, an engineer, left his mark on the farm with several innovative structures. The root cellar, built into the ground, provided essential storage for root vegetables. The concrete dome garage, constructed using an eggshell design, showcases Treat's ingenuity and experimentation with concrete.
A Glimpse Into Farming History
The Treat family farmed various crops, including asparagus, apples, beans, and raspberries, primarily for their consumption. They also raised livestock and practiced crop rotation to maintain soil fertility. Despite the challenges of sandy soil, the Treat family continued farming into the 1930s.
Completing the Hike
The Treat Farm Trail continues to the bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking views. Adventurous hikers can climb Old Baldy for an even more impressive vantage point. The trail, open year-round, requires a Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore pass, available at the Philip Hart Visitor Center in Empire.