Visit Pierce Cedar Creek Institute
There is no admission fee to use the trails or the Visitor Center. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary art exhibit in the Visitor Center. Fees may apply for programs and special events. Climate controlled restrooms are available year-round and are open on the south side of the visitor center daily from dawn to dusk.
Location Information
701 West Cloverdale Rd, Hastings, MI 49058
Phone: 269-721-4190
Fax: 269-721-4474
View Map | View Directions
Hours and Admissions
Visitor Center
Open Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm
Restrooms on the south side of the Visitor Center open daily from dawn to dusk
Trails
Hiking trails are open daily, dawn to dusk.
Snowshoe Rental: Members FREE | Non-Members $5 (At least, 6 inches of snow needed for snowshoeing.)
Current Art Exhibit in Visitor Center
Sharon Sunday Inspiring Places – Plein Air Landscapes from Michigan Exhibit date: through January, 2025
Sharon will give a live painting demonstration during December's Holiday Brunch, Music, and Art! Register Here!
"A Favorite Place" by Sharon Sunday
Upcoming Art Exhibit in Visitor Center
Thomas P. Churney Nature and Wildlife Photography Exhibit date: Monday, February 3 through Friday, May 30, 2025
Thomas' artist reception will be held in March. Look for more information on this website's Events page.
Below is his biography and one of his images.
"Brand New Fawn"
© 2024 Thomas P. Churney. All rights reserved.
Let's Connect Through Nature: Share Your Stories

Do you have a memorable nature experience? A favorite hiking trail? We want to hear about it!
What to include in your story:
- Location: Where did your experience take place?
- Activity: What were you doing? Hiking, camping, birdwatching, etc.
- Memorable moment: What made the experience special or unique?
- Photos or videos: Share your favorite pictures or videos from your adventure.
Let's create a community of nature enthusiasts together!
Send your stories and photos to: Google Form
Geocaching at the Insitute!
Geocaching is a treasure hunting game. Players can use a GPS unit or a Geocaching app to find hidden containers filled with items from the Institute. Please download the flyers below to learn more.
Make Memories: Enjoy Activities at Home and at the Institute
Pick up free activity sheets at southside of the Visitor Center.
(Changes seasonally)
- Books about nature for Pre-K to 5th grade
- Activity sheets about colors and leaves
- Geocaching
- The Scientist's Secret, puzzle game on the trails
Nature's Gratitude Walk
"Gratitude" is a sense of thankfulness for all the good in our lives. Learn different walks to experience gratitude for the natural world through this Gratitude Walk. Free and self-guided on the Lupine Trail, November 1-15, December 1-31.
Nature Nook
Located at the northside of the Visitor Center near the dining room.
Includes:
- Books about nature for Pre-K to 5th grade
- Games
- Stuffed animals
The Play Space
Located between the Visitor Center and Education Building at the start of the Black Walnut Trail
Includes accessible access to nature-based playground equipment.
inSTALL.ED
Located in the restrooms in the Visitor Center and Education Building.
Includes information about upcoming programs.
Explore the Outdoors: Barry County Nature Spots