Alpine Township has a blend of city shopping and country farmland
Alpine Township was originally named for its abundance of pine trees, but today, it’s best known for its prolific apple orchards. Although the township is 75% farmland, Alpine Avenue is a major shopping hub, and Grand Rapids is only a few miles away. “We are one of the most diverse townships in the county because we have everything: farmland, a commercial corridor and some industrial businesses,” says township supervisor Greg Madura. “People can live close to Grand Rapids and yet be two minutes away from a farm market.” Thanks to the protected farmland, a quieter pace of life endures in Alpine more than in other Grand Rapids suburbs. Alpine’s CAP Index crime score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
Alpine Township has several large home communities on its southern edge, closer to the city.
Fricano's Pizza is the go-to spot for a delicious pie in Alpine Township.
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Just outside suburbia, rural homes have large yards
Most of Alpine Township’s homes are located in Comstock Park, a neighborhood in the area's southeast. But outside of that suburban enclave, things feel more rural, with private yards and 2-acre lots. “The northwest area of Grand Rapids is super attractive right now because it’s so close to downtown, but it still has a rural feel,” says Bryce Balcer, a local Realtor with Icon Realty Group who has over 15 years of experience. “You can find large lots and spacious ranch-style homes.” Homes from the late 1900s start around $200,000 and get up to $450,000 based on renovations and acreage. Large modern homes with a secluded luxury feel have prices closer to $600,000. A small mobile home community has prices between $20,000 and $75,000.
New developments are also coming down the line to meet the high demand. “We want to protect our farmland while also continuing to grow,” Madura says. “So, areas that aren't viable for farm production are getting split up into single-family homes, duplexes and condos.” Only the homes built around Comstock Park have access to public water and sewer systems.
Alpine Township is home to many secluded farmhouses.
Split-level homes are more common in Alpine Township, the closer you get to Grand Rapids.
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Apple orchards, pumpkin patches, farm markets and breweries
Driving down the country roads, it is apparent that Alpine Township is one of the leading apple producers in the state. “In the spring, you will see 10 straight miles of apple blossoms,” Madura says. “People come from all over to take pictures with them.” Places like Brechtings Farm Market sell fresh fruits and vegetables nearly every day during the growing season.
In the fall, Schwallier’s Country Basket has all the classic farm attractions — petting zoos, apple cider donuts, pick-your-own pumpkins — but also offers apple cannons that shoot high-speed fruit at targets. Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm includes an on-site restaurant and brewery and hosts seasonal events like Easter egg hunts, Oktoberfest and Santa on the Farm.
Alpine Township people can visit Schwallier's Country Basket for their apple orchards.
Perrin Brewing Co. is a popular local spot for a drink.
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A hub of shopping along Alpine Avenue
Alpine Avenue, located in the township’s southeast corner, is one of the largest retail hubs in the Grand Rapids area. Big box stores and groceries include Gordon Food Service, Aldi, Sam’s Club, Walmart and Target. There’s a wide selection of chain restaurants, thrift stores, gyms and an AMC Theater. The locally owned Amore Trattoria Italiana has a date-night atmosphere with a live piano player, and Perrin Brewing Company has a selection of creative beers brewed on-site.
Amore Italiano serves up delicious classic Italian fare to the residents of Alpine Township.
Flowerland on Alpine Ave is a one stop shop for stylish home decor.
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Updates and early college at Kenowa Hills schools
Most of the township is zoned for Kenowa Hills Public Schools. Kids can start at Alpine Elementary before moving on to Kenowa Hills Middle School and Kenowa Hills High School. All three schools are located within the township and receive a B-minus rating from Niche. In 2024, the district was approved for a $37 million bond to update outdoor facilities, including a new turf field and an outdoor learning area for the agriscience program. At Kenowa High School, students can stay for a 13th year to earn their associate degree with the Middle College program.
Alpine Elementary School in Comstock Park, Michigan receives a B- from Niche.
Kenowa Hills Middle School in Grand Rapids, Michigan has a B- rating on Niche.
Kenowa Hills High School teaches students in grades 9-12 in Alpine Township.
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Hiking trails and a future dog park
Wahlfield Park is a wooded area with around 7 miles of multi-use trails open to mountain bikers and cross-country skiers. In spring 2025, the park is being expanded to include a 10-acre dog park and four-season restrooms. Alpine Golf Course and Gracewil Country Club both have 18-hole golf courses open to the public, but Gracewil is slated to be turned into a housing development in 2026.
The Fred Meijer Pioneer Trail runs through the center of Alpine Township.
Wahlfield Park features multiple miles of trails in Comstock Park.
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Traffic builds up along Alpine Avenue, but there's alternative routes
Depending on location, it can be 5 or 15 miles into downtown Grand Rapids, home to major hospitals and city activity. The trip can take over 20 minutes when traffic peaks along Alpine Avenue. “A couple of times a day, Alpine Avenue gets backed up, but it gets better once you are in the township,” Madura says. “So, the small stretch from I-96 to 4 Mile Road can take 10 minutes, but once you hit 4 Mile Road, it all opens up.” Locals know it’s usually better to take the back roads and avoid that sticky spot during rush hour.
Alpine Township has easy access to Interstate 96, which heads out to the Lake Michigan shore in about 40 miles. I-96 also connects to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport on the other side of the city, 20 miles away.
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