Explore Clare County - Where the North Begins!
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Clare County is an Outdoor Paradise!

Clare County's slogan is "Where the North Begins" and most of our county is undeveloped wooded lands that turn into an explosion of color during spring and autumn. Some exciting Clare County Stats include: Acres of State and Forest Land: 63,000. Lakes and Rivers: 86. Trails: 6. Acres of open water: 3,900. Miles of rivers and streams: 330.
​All of this adds up to a perfect place to escape crowds and explore a wide variety of natural resources.  
  • Spring Color Tour
  • Hiking 
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Clare County is called ‘The Gateway to the North’ for good reason; most of our county is undeveloped wooded lands 
​that turn into an amazing display of color during the spring. 
With colors and scenery rivaling fall, we invite you to Explore Clare County on a Spring Color Tour!
Click for Tour​
A great way to experience nature in Clare County is by hiking the local and state pathways. Hikers often encounter a wide variety of wildlife within a short distance and can visit their many habitats such as lakes, fields, woodlands and wetlands.  
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Hike through the forest and enjoy nature at its finest.
Catch a glimpse of the rare Kirtland’s Warbler nesting in the jackpine stands in Winterfield Township.
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Spring Color Tour

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Wonderful fishing opportunities abound in the many lakes and rivers located throughout the county. As a whole, Clare County has approximately 3,900 acres of open water and over 330 miles of rivers and streams! Across the county, 18 lakes have public access boat launches, and the Muskegon, Tobacco and Cedar Rivers are angler favorites.

Ice fishing is also popular in winter months with many species of fish present in the wonderful lakes.

As a popular fishing destination for travelers, many trophy-sized fish have been recorded throughout the years. 
See individual lake maps available upon request for species and trophy fish taken.
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​Clare County is a favorite of hunters. You’ll find the perfect spot in our forests and meadows.
​And, with over 80 lakes and three rivers, fishing opportunities abound.
DNR eLicense Info
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Mid Michigan College's Harrison Campus has 560 acres of beautiful, wooded land. Their trail system is open all year long for
​walking, running, biking, snow shoeing, and cross-country skiing.
​Also, the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail runs through Clare County.
The paved trail currently begins in Midland and continues west through downtown Clare and on to Reed City.
Also, grab your fat tire bike and enjoy the miles of trails found in Clare County.
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Access to Michigan’s extensive Off-Road Vehicle trails can be found in northern Clare County.
The Leota ORV trailhead provides access to over 55 miles of ORV trails for larger ORV’s and hundreds of
​miles of trails that can be accessed by quads or smaller traditional ORV’s.
​In addition, the Fur Farm snowmobile trail starts just north of the city of Harrison and joins up with the Leota Trail.
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Snow Snake serves all levels of skiers and snowboarders and it’s especially suited for the beginner and intermediate levels. And their tubing hill offers fast paced thrills and spills for all ages to enjoy.
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Also, some of the finest golf courses can be found in and around Clare County!
We invite you to stay with us and Explore Clare County!
Contact Us
Where to stay:
Doherty Hotel - Clare
Lakeside Waterfront Lodging - Harrison
Lone Pine Motel - Clare
Quality Inn - Clare
Where to Eat:
While visiting Clare County, sample some of our fine restaurants and local diners. From elegant dinners, cafes with home cooking and fast food, to singing karaoke in one of the area lounges - you ​have a choice! Click here for some choices.​ ​

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Contact Us:
Clare County Convention & Visitors Bureau
PO Box 226 / Clare, MI 48617
800-715-3550
Site design and maintenance courtesy of Clare Graphics