Big Rapids is a city and the seat of government of Mecosta County, Michigan, United States. The population was 7,727 at the 2020 census, and was estimated at 8,565 in 2024, but local lumbermen knew the site as Big Rapids. On September 29, 1859, the Leonard post office was renamed Big Rapids.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of , of which is land and (2.56%) is water.
Transportation
Major highways
Bus
- Indian Trails provides daily intercity bus service between Grand Rapids and Petoskey, Michigan. The southbound bus stops in Big Rapids at 2:35 pm, and the northbound bus stops in Big Rapids at 6:03 pm. Since August 1, 2014, buses stop in the Save-A-Lot parking lot across the street from the Racquet & Fitness Center.
- Public dial-a-ride bus service is provided by the Big Rapids Dial-A-Ride.
Airports
- Roben-Hood Airport is located north of the Big Rapids business district and provides services to businesses and general aviation throughout the Midwest.
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the nearest international airport, located roughly one hour south of Big Rapids near Grand Rapids.
Cycling and hiking
The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail, a multi-use trail from Grand Rapids to Cadillac, passes through Big Rapids.