Did you know there’s a massive U.S. topographical map hidden in a West Michigan park? Well, it’s been around for decades and is now in need of some TLC!
The map is carved into the earth at Hager Park in Jenison. You’ll find the 104-acre park at 834 28th Ave. in Ottawa County. In addition to features like picnic areas, nature trails, and a mature hardwood forest known for its gorgeous spring wildflowers, there’s also the Age of Discovery Playground.
The play space overlooks the giant terrain map of the United States. Raised berms and gravel mark state boundaries and features like mountain ranges and rivers. Around for more than 50 years, these days that map is in need of restoration. Grass has taken over, the details are tough to spot, and unless you already know it’s there, you might just think it’s a regular patch of overgrown lawn…