The Northside Pathway is located in Zeeland, MI and was a surprisingly nice blend between man-made structures and nature.

We hiked along a paved pathway, across a few bridges and ate supper in a gazebo. The path took us across several more boardwalks and bridges as it wound between woods, wetlands, fields and an industrial complex.

The kids played with cattails and discovered giant tunnels, an un-identified animal skull, bird nests, a wasp nest, a muskrat, a huge dead fish, geese on a company's roof, red-winged blackbirds, and a fair amount of trash. We talked about how we should bring trash bags next time so we can clean up as we hike.

The kids talked a lot about what they want their Rescue the World Club to be, and came up with some great ideas.

When we got back to the cars we had some much needed hot chocolate to wrap up a nice evening!