Mt. Pisgah is a beautiful nature reserve that houses the historic remains of Ottawa Beach, which was once a bustling seaside resort built in the late 1800s. Located in Holland, Michigan, USA, it offers a breathtaking view of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan.

As you stand at the top of Mt. Pisgah, you can imagine how this area was once filled with cottages, dance halls, and bustling boardwalks during the golden age of American resorts. The park still bears some remnants of that time, including a few old stone pillars from the original pier, a historical marker, and footprints of old buildings.

One of the unique attributes of Mt. Pisgah is its diverse ecosystem. The park features 160 acres of coastal dunes, wetlands, forests, and prairies that are home to numerous plant species and wildlife. You can find various native plants like the Eastern Red Cedar and Little Bluestem grasses, as well as rare orchids like the Showy Ladys Slipper.

The park offers several hiking trails for visitors to explore its natural beauty. The most popular is the Mt. Pisgah Dune Staircase which takes you up 269 steps to the top of the dunes, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape.

In addition to hiking, birdwatching is a popular activity at Mt. Pisgah as it is part of the Lake Michigan shorelines migratory route for various bird species. You may spot birds like the American Kestrel or the Red-headed Woodpecker during your visit.

As you explore this historic and scenic location, take a moment to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you and the rich history that still lingers in the air. Mt. Pisgah - Historic Ottawa Beach is truly a unique gem along Michigans coastline.