Highlights
The Mason Nature Area is a small natural oasis in the heart of the City of Houghton. Located on Franklin Street, this natural area provides easy access to the natural beauty of the Keweenaw. Small trails lead through the Mason nature area, showcasing the Scales Creek Lava Flow.
Planning your visit
The Mason Nature Area, while small, is nestled right in the heart of the City of Houghton on Franklin Street, just above East South Avenue. There is no official parking area, but a trail head can be found at the top of the property on 7th Ave. Please be respectful of neighbors and do not trespass on private property. Efforts are underway with the City of Houghton to expand the nature area into the undeveloped block it lies on the edge of. This will enhance both the Mason Nature Area and geoheritage efforts in the city by geology students and professors at Michigan Tech. The Scales Creek Lava Flow is visible in this area and provides insight into the region’s rich geological history. Once completed, trails and a parking area will be marked to make visiting this landmark easier.
Why this place is special
A legacy of conservation! A touch of nature close to home is the result of a generous bequest from Marilyn Mason. Marilyn was inspired by the land protection, stewardship, and education efforts of the Keweenaw Land Trust. When KLT was presented with an opportunity to expand our protected lands in a priority conservation area along what is now called the Copper Country Trail National Byway, Marilyn stepped up with a major financial gift that helped us establish the Boston Pond Preserve in honor of a dear friend and long-time KLT member.
Upon her passing in 2011, Marilyn provided another generous gift to the community – this time in her own backyard. Marilyn and her husband Richard, a professor at Michigan Tech, made their home on a large and secluded lot in Houghton and also owned a block of lots across the street that provided them the serenity of nature close to home. Marilyn has entrusted those lots to the KLT to remain forever a natural refuge in the city--a place where all members of the community children, can find not only refuge, but also a place to observe, explore and learn to love the natural world. The proceeds from the sale of her home provided long-term support for the project and a gift to Copper Country Audubon, our partners in caring for the Mason Nature Area.
Maps & documents
The following documents provide additional details about this nature area.