The Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy is hosting the fourth annual Chocolay Bayou Art Walk and Sale on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. (Photo courtesy)
HARVEY — The Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy invites the public to the fourth annual Chocolay Bayou Art Walk and Sale on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. This event offers an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Chocolay Bayou Nature Preserve in Harvey while supporting local artists. Walk along the scenic trails and discover an array of creative works inspired by nature, including paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, poetry and more.
The 13-acre Chocolay Bayou Nature Preserve is rich in history and natural beauty. Once home to the area’s first steam-powered sawmill and blast furnace, the preserve also marks the boundary of the 1842 La Pointe Copper Treaty along the Chocolay River.
Today, visitors can explore a boardwalk, a bird-watching hide, educational panels designed by Northern Michigan University students and local experts, and community-sponsored benches. In addition to its historical significance, Chocolay Bayou is also home to ecologically important wetlands for migratory birds and diverse aquatic life.
“The Art Walk offers people the opportunity to connect with nature and each other through the powerful interface between landscape and art,” said Hannah Boyd, UPLC’s administrative director. “I hope the event will welcome new visitors to the bayou and make them aware of the importance of protecting and appreciating our natural spaces.”
Chocolay Bayou Nature Preserve is located on the Iron Ore Heritage Trail. Due to limited parking at the preserve, UPLC encourages visitors to walk or bike to the event. For those arriving by car, parking is available at the Michigan Welcome Center and along Main Street in Harvey.
For more information or to volunteer for the event, visit uplandconservancy.org/artwalk.
