Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Hessel Marsh Wildlife Area is located along the northern shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, near the town of Hessel in Mackinac County. This protected wetland region spans a diverse mixture of cedar swamps, marshes, and open water that serve as critical breeding and feeding grounds for an abundance of waterfowl, migratory birds, and other wildlife species. The area's expansive wetlands create one of the best inland waterfowl habitats in northern Michigan. Historically, this landscape supported Native American use and later fur trading before its formal protection as a wildlife refuge. Today, the marsh attracts bird watchers, hunters, photographers, and paddlers who come to experience its quiet natural beauty and relatively untouched ecosystem. Visitors commonly explore the marsh by canoe or kayak, navigating through reeds and open channels while spotting species such as ducks, herons, and occasionally bald eagles. The terrain is mostly flat with water access points along county roads and near the community of Hessel. Its remote location and wet environment mean hiking trails are limited; however, there are access points for anglers and seasonal hunting. The area is managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which oversees conservation efforts to maintain habitat integrity and species diversity. Visitors appreciate the area for its peaceful wildlife viewing and solitude compared to busier state parks and forests. The marsh is especially popular during spring and fall migration seasons, when bird activity peaks.
