Popular Trail Access Cut Off by Rising Water Levels

ADA TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A popular walking trail at Roselle Park in Ada Township has remained inaccessible for several weeks due to rising water levels, forcing regular users to find alternative exercise locations as the flooding persists through heavy rainfall across the region.

The trail closure, which has been documented through social media posts from neighbors since at least last week, affects one of the most frequented outdoor spaces in the township. Residents who rely on the trail daily must now adapt their routines or travel to other parks to maintain their fitness habits.

"We haven't been able to use the trail for a couple weeks," said one Ada resident who visits the park weekly.

The flooding has created significant challenges for dog owners and nature enthusiasts who make regular trips to the park.

"I enjoy going here, so not being able to come here, it's kind of sad, especially for him too," said another neighbor, referring to her dog.

Flooding Not Unusual But Persistent Conditions Frustrate Residents

Ada Parks and Recreation officials have confirmed that the flooding is not entirely unexpected, noting that the area typically experiences one to two instances of trail flooding per year when river levels naturally rise. However, the extended duration of the current closure has frustrated residents who depend on the trail for daily exercise and recreation.

Heavy rainfall has been the primary driver of the current conditions, with the Grand River reaching elevated levels across multiple monitoring points in Kent County.

River Levels High Across Kent County

The flooding at Roselle Park is part of a broader pattern of elevated water levels affecting communities throughout Kent County. According to Kent County Emergency Management, the Grand River near Comstock Park measured 14.7 feet on Tuesday morning, surpassing the 12 foot flood stage.

The river was expected to peak at approximately 15.4 feet on Wednesday before gradually declining below flood stage by early Sunday.

"KCEM said high flow of water has been observed at the LaBarge, Cascade and Ada Dam facilities. They said those facilities are operating as designed," stated Kent County Emergency Management.

The Thornapple River has also experienced elevated levels, measuring 9.5 feet near Caledonia on Tuesday morning with projections to briefly reach 10.0 feet before falling back below flood stage.

Parks and Recreation Officials Optimistic About Trail Recovery

Despite the inconvenience, Parks and Recreation officials remain hopeful that the trail will clear within the next one to two weeks, contingent on water levels and ongoing weather conditions. The department continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages residents to check back for updates as conditions improve.

Other Trails Remain Available

While the Roselle Park trail remains inaccessible, other trails throughout Ada Township continue to be available for public use. The department maintains multiple recreational spaces including Ada Park, Covered Bridge Park, and Legacy Park, ensuring residents still have options for outdoor activities during this temporary closure.

Roselle Park stands as one of the most beloved natural areas in Ada Township, featuring over a mile of river frontage along with restored wetlands and meadows. The park also offers a wetland observation deck, silo observation deck, silo climbing wall, and natural-themed park climbing equipment, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination for families throughout the region.

Flood Safety Remains Priority

Kent County Emergency Management has reminded residents to remain vigilant as they navigate the current conditions. The department advises residents to avoid driving through flooded roadways, obey barricades, and stay clear of fast-moving water.

"KCEM acknowledged that this is not among the worst flooding instances seen, historically, it could still impact low-lying areas, including homes, basements, roads, parks and trails near the rivers in Comstock Park, Plainfield Twp and Caledonia," according to emergency management officials.

Residents experiencing any flood-related damage are encouraged to use the county's self-reporting survey to assist with local damage assessments, helping officials better understand the impact of rising water levels across the region.

The department continues to monitor official updates from emergency management and the National Weather Service, ensuring residents have access to the most current information as conditions evolve.