
Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary
An undeveloped island sanctuary in Alpena, accessible by a footbridge, offering trails, wildlife, and water activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for kayaking and wildlife viewing

Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Ideal for kayaking and wildlife viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An undeveloped island sanctuary in Alpena, accessible by a footbridge, offering trails, wildlife, and water activities.
"This is a hidden gem in Alpena, offering beautiful views and a peaceful escape."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your furry friends along! The park has nice trails and is great for dogs.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent kayaks in summer for a unique perspective of the sanctuary and surrounding waters.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Footbridge
Entrance to the island
A charming covered footbridge leads you to this natural haven, offering a scenic start to your exploration.

Island Walking Trails
Throughout the island
Explore shaded paths with some stairs and inclines, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Kayak Exploration
Kayak launch point
Rent a kayak to paddle around the island and nearby waters, observing turtles and diverse birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Island Sanctuary
Best Activities on the Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your furry friends along! The park has nice trails and is great for dogs.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent kayaks in summer for a unique perspective of the sanctuary and surrounding waters.
♿ Accessible Trails
Enjoy the scenery! Some trails are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎣 Fishing Spots
Cast a line from the island or designated fishing platforms for a relaxing afternoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your furry friends along! The park has nice trails and is great for dogs.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent kayaks in summer for a unique perspective of the sanctuary and surrounding waters.
♿ Accessible Trails
Enjoy the scenery! Some trails are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎣 Fishing Spots
Cast a line from the island or designated fishing platforms for a relaxing afternoon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary is a beloved hidden gem in Alpena, praised for its accessible nature and scenic beauty. Visitors appreciate the picturesque footbridge, well-maintained trails (including accessible options), and the opportunity to observe local wildlife. While swimming isn't ideal, kayaking and fishing are popular activities, especially during the summer. It's a peaceful escape offering a refreshing dose of nature right at the edge of town.
"Beautiful little nature sanctuary that's an island in downtown Alpena. There is a parking lot and a walking bridge to cross. There are hiking trails, overlooks, fishing and birding sites, and we saw deer"
Elizabeth M. Lynch
"Absolutely love this place. Nice covered bridge and water tank, park has nice trails, great for dogs. Mostly shaded, beautiful views of the water. You can rent kayaks."
Amanda K
"Nice area to explore by foot or paddle around for a couple of hours. Kayak launch available for public use and you can rent one there. You can paddle around island and in nearby area but don’t bother going down the river towards Thunder Bay, access is blocked off at 9th street damn, forcing you to paddle back upstream. If the winds are high this can get really annoying. A lot of natural growth in the water to kayak around, not really ideal for swimming anywhere. We saw a few birds, turtles, a very large snapping turtle. The walk around island is nice and mostly shaded, stairs and slight inclines."
Wailym Cruz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Alpena and is easily accessible by car. There is an ample parking lot available right at the edge of town, leading to a picturesque footbridge that crosses to the island.
Yes, there is ample parking available near the entrance of the sanctuary, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! A beautiful footbridge connects the mainland to the island, offering a pleasant walk and scenic views as you enter the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is best explored on foot via its hiking trails. For a different perspective, kayak rentals are available in the summer to explore the surrounding waters.
The primary access is via the footbridge. While the island is generally open for exploration, be aware that river access downstream is blocked by a dam.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's a free natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
As a public park, Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific hours are not typically posted, but it's best to visit during reasonable daylight times.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a free public space for recreation and nature appreciation.
Kayak rentals are available on-site during the summer. While reservations might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to inquire about availability, especially during peak times.
The sanctuary is generally open year-round. However, kayak rentals are typically only available during the summer months.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often spot deer, various bird species, and turtles, including large snapping turtles. The sanctuary is a great spot for birding and observing local fauna.
The walking trails on the island have some stairs and slight inclines, but there are also accessible trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it navigable for many.
Swimming is not ideal at Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary due to natural growth in the water. It's better suited for paddling and observing wildlife.
During the summer, you can find kayak rentals and a portable bathroom. Fishing platforms are also available for anglers.
Yes, the picturesque footbridge, natural scenery, and opportunities to see wildlife make it a great spot for photography. The island also features beautiful birch trees and views of Alpena.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services or restaurants directly within Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks and drinks.
Since the sanctuary is located in Alpena, you'll find various dining options in the downtown area, ranging from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a picnic on the island's trails or near the scenic overlooks. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Yes, the downtown Alpena area, close to the sanctuary, has several cafes where you can grab a coffee or a light snack.
Alpena offers a variety of cuisines, including American diners, pizza places, and seafood restaurants, catering to different tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic footbridge is a must-capture, especially with the natural backdrop. The trails offer scenic overlooks of the water and Alpena, and the island's birch trees provide beautiful textures.
Yes, Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary is excellent for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and deer that frequent the area.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also when wildlife is often most active.
There are no specific photography restrictions mentioned for public areas of the sanctuary. However, always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and park rules regarding drone operation before flying in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
🎣 Anglers and Birdwatchers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring by Water: Kayaking Adventures
Beyond the island itself, the waters around Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary are teeming with life. Visitors have reported seeing various bird species, turtles, and even a very large snapping turtle. The natural growth in the water adds to the wild feel of the environment, though it makes swimming less appealing. For those who enjoy paddling, this sanctuary provides a peaceful and engaging aquatic adventure, perfect for a few hours of exploration.
Wildlife Spotting and Birding
The sanctuary's design, with its walking trails and overlooks, makes it easy to observe wildlife without disturbing their natural habitat. The sound of traffic is often negligible, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Whether you're an avid birder or simply enjoy observing animals in their natural environment, Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary provides ample opportunities for memorable wildlife encounters. Remember to bring binoculars for a closer look and tread lightly to maximize your chances of spotting these creatures.
Accessibility and Trail Features
This thoughtful inclusion of accessible routes means that families with young children using strollers, as well as individuals using mobility aids, can comfortably navigate the sanctuary and enjoy its scenic overlooks and shaded paths. The combination of natural exploration and thoughtful accessibility makes Island Park Wildlife Sanctuary a welcoming destination for a wide range of visitors looking to connect with nature.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit