Visit Us
Jordan River National Fish Hatchery is a four season destination with a variety of things to see and do throughout the year. The hatchery produces more than 3 million fish annually and visitors can see fish from the egg stage to adult. During warm weather months the hatchery is a great place to spend a few hours observing millions of fingerling trout, take time for a picnic or hike the miles of trails on and around the facility. Fall and winter months are picturesque in the Jordan River valley and are a great time for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy our area.
Driving Directions
From the north: From the intersection of US-131 and M-32 at the BP gas station, go four miles south on US-131, turn right on Turner Road just past the hatchery sign. Go two miles to the end of Turner Road
From the south: Go about six miles north of Alba on US-131 turn left on Turner Road. Go two miles to the end of Turner Road.
Fees
There is no charge to visit.
Restrooms
Public restrooms are located on the lower backside of the office building.
Points of Interest
While visiting, feel free to use our enclosed pavilion and picnic tables, take a hike to our beautiful vista, view some fish, stop in the visitor center or if in need of assistance come to the office.
What To Do
If you have 15 minutes
- View multiple species of fish
If you have one hour
- Learn about how and why the hatchery raises the fish that we do
If you have half a day or more
- Hike the North Country National Scenic Trail
Know Before You Go
The hatchery is located in the beautiful Jordan River Valley in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan. Visitors should dress for the weather as most of the things to see and do are outdoors. Due to the close proximity of the hatchery to the pristine waters of the Jordan River, insects are a common challenge in warm weather months. Visitors should bring adequate insect repellant, footwear and drinking water if hiking is included in your plans. Children should always be supervised when in the raceway, river or pond areas of the hatchery as deep water is present.
Visitor Tips
If planning a visit, please consider the weather. All of our activities will require you to be outdoors at some point. The road leading to the hatchery is steep and can result in slippery conditions for visitors and deliveries in the winter time. Staff assistance is only available during office hours.
Activities
Visitors are encouraged to tour the visitor center in the main hatchery building or walk through the multiple fish production buildings located on the grounds. Jordan River National Fish Hatchery provides several nature trails and is located adjacent to the popular North Country Trail. Visitors may also enjoy the station’s picnic area, pollinator garden and easy access to the beautiful Jordan River Valley.
Trails
River Loop
Open season: Open year round - Walking spring to fall, snow shoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. Not open to biking or horseback riding.
Length: 0.6 mile
Location of trail: North of hatchery houses, across 5-Tile Creek Bridge
Surface: Dirt
Difficulty: Easy
Information: A quick hike through valley forest along the Jordan River and 5-Tile Creek
Overlook Trail
Open season: Open year round - Walking spring to fall, snow shoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. Not open to biking or horseback riding.
Length: 0.5 mile
Location of trail: North of hatchery houses, on the right before 5-Tile Creek Bridge
Surface: Dirt
Difficulty: Moderate (Steep)
Information: A short hike along the formation of 5-Tile Creek that leads to an overlook of the Jordan River valley. A great place during fall foliage.
Access to Jordan Valley Pathway and North Country National Scenic Trail
Open season: Open year round - Walking spring to fall, snow shoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. Not open to biking or horseback riding.
Length: 19 miles
Location of trail: Half a mile up Turner Road on the right when leaving the hatchery
Surface: Dirt
Difficulty: Moderate (Length)
Information: Maps available in visitor center
Rules and Policies
Self-guided visiting hours and picnic area use are open 24 hours a day. Fishing on grounds is not allowed. Pets are allowed on a leash. No staging of off-road vehicles or snowmobiles at any time on hatchery property. No open fires or camping on grounds without a Special Use Permit. Adult supervision required of all children. Do not put anything in the water, including hands.