You’ll wander through pastoral meadows, cross whimsical bridges that look uncannily like logs, and peer at faux bark and rope textures carved into concrete so artfully that you’ll have to touch it to believe. McCourtie Park is one of those rare places combining folk art, history, and nature into one quiet, uncanny escape.
The park’s story begins with William Herbert Lee “Herb” McCourtie, born in 1872, who built his fortune in oil and cement. In 1924 he purchased his family’s 42-acre farm, naming it “Aiden’s Lair,” and over the next decade transformed the land with gardens, ponds, trout streams, and most notably, eighteen or so sculptural concrete structures made to look like wood. After his death in 1933 the estate passed through various owners until Somerset Township purchased it in 1987 and opened it to the public.
Key Highlights & What You’ll Love
The core attraction is the seventeen concrete bridges, each uniquely styled. Although made of cement, they mimic the rustic look of wood—logs, planks, rope-like railings, even thatch textures. The artisans used a folk art technique known as trabajo rustico (faux bois in French), sculpting wet concrete to resemble wood with incredible detail in texture.
You’ll also enjoy the other sculptural features: two life-size concrete trees that serve as chimneys, mammoth bird-houses with hundreds of chambers, ponds and swimming/fishing holes, and a winding stream that the bridges cross. The natural setting—meadows, woods, ponds—frames these artistically and makes the visual surprises more striking.
Voluminous artistry meets history: the park is recognized on both state and national historic registers, giving it significance beyond beauty. Because the house (“Aiden’s Lair”) is gone, the bridges and ancillary structures carry the vision forward. Community volunteers have helped in restoration and upkeep, particularly of the concrete artworks.
Visitors often mention how peaceful it is, how photogenic the bridges are (especially early or late in the day), and how charming that such an elaborate, ornate artistic landscape exists quietly in rural Michigan.
Atmosphere & Décor
Walking through, you’ll feel enchanted. The faux bois bridges blend into the setting so well that you might expect they’re wooden until you touch the texture. Leaves overhead filter light, water reflections shimmer under the bridges, and the overall mood is contemplative.
There’s a contrast between lush greenery and the solidity of concrete sculpture. The bridges have exaggerated natural forms—curving, twisting, rope-like elements—that give them life. They almost stand as art installations in a gallery of nature.
The setting is relaxed: trails are simple, surfaces are natural (sometimes uneven), picnic spots around, ponds, stream crossings. Weather and seasons affect how everything feels: spring and summer bring greenery, wildlife, dappled sunlight; fall the color; winter, snow gives the concrete wood illusion a new drama.
Other Considerations
So how’s the price? Admission is free. The park is publicly owned by Somerset Township, and there isn’t a paid entrance. That makes it accessible for spontaneous visits.
What’s the best time to visit? Late spring through early fall is ideal. Morning or late afternoon light is especially photogenic. Summer midday is ok, though parts are exposed to sun. Bring bug spray in warm months.
Is parking and access easy? The park sits just off US-12 and Jackson Road. There is parking nearby. Paths are mostly natural or simple dirt/trail surfaces. Not all areas are ADA-friendly due to the sculptural terrain and natural topography.
Any drawbacks? Because of the age and materials, some structures may show wear—cracks, discoloration, or weathering. There is limited interpretive signage, so much of the history you’ll want to absorb comes from prior reading or research. Some trails are more rugged than others, and not all parts are well lit or suitable for dusk visits.
McCourtie Park
📍 10426 South Jackson Road at US-12, Somerset Center, Michigan
Websitehttps://www.hillsdalehistoricalsociety.org/mccourtie-park
