Branch County is located in the south-central portion of Michigan and is home to 33,922 people according to the 2020 census. According to psyknowhow.com, the county was established in 1829 and was named after John Branch, the Secretary of the Navy under President Andrew Jackson.
The county seat is Coldwater which has a population of 10,945 and is located approximately halfway between Detroit and Chicago. Coldwater has a rich history dating back to 1834 when it was founded as a trading post by Charles Hascall, a local businessman. The city is also known for its many historical sites such as the Tibbits Opera House which was built in 1882 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In addition to its history, Branch County offers plenty of attractions for visitors including parks such as Coldwater Lake State Park or Baw Beese Lake State Park, golf courses such as Upland Hills Country Club or Maple Lane Golf Course, and other recreational activities like fishing on the St. Joseph River or camping at one of several campgrounds throughout the county.
Branch County also has several notable people from its past including former Vice President Charles W. Fairbanks who was born in Union City in 1852; former Governor Kim Sigler who was born in Coldwater in 1906; and actor/writer/director Harold Ramis who graduated from Sturgis High School in 1966.
With so much to see and do, Branch County is a great place to visit for those looking for an enjoyable vacation spot with plenty of activities that will keep them entertained during their stay.
Climate and weather in Branch County, Michigan
According to andyeducation.com, Branch County, Michigan has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in summer is around 68°F (20°C), while temperatures in winter can drop to as low as 20°F (-7°C). The county also experiences high levels of humidity and precipitation all year round, with an average of 35-40 inches of rain per year.
In the spring months, the county experiences mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Temperatures range from 40-60°F (4-15°C), with some occasional rain showers. As summer approaches, temperatures begin to rise and the humidity increases, making it feel even warmer than the thermometer reads. Temperatures during this time can range from 70-90°F (21-32°C).
The autumn months are generally mild in Branch County with temperatures ranging from 40-60°F (4-15°C). This is also a time when rainfall is at its highest, averaging around 4 inches per month throughout October and November.
Winter in Branch County is very cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. Snowfall averages around 50 inches per year, though this number can vary greatly depending on the season. During these months it is common for temperatures to dip into single digits overnight and remain there for days at a time during particularly cold snaps.
Branch County experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year – spring, summer, autumn and winter – each with their own unique weather patterns that visitors should be aware of before planning their visit.
Transportation in Branch County, Michigan
Branch County, Michigan is served by several transportation options for those looking to get around the area. The most common form of transportation in the county is by car. Branch County has several main roads that run through it including US 12, US 131, and M-86 which provide access to larger cities such as Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and Detroit. Additionally, there are many smaller county roads throughout the area that are great for exploring the more rural parts of the county.
Public transportation in Branch County is limited but available. The county is served by a small public bus system called Indian Trails which operates between Coldwater and a few nearby towns. There are also Amtrak trains that run through Coldwater and stop at various points throughout the county as well as a Greyhound bus station in Coldwater for those who wish to travel further away.
For those looking to fly into or out of Branch County, there is an airport located just outside of Coldwater called the Coldwater Regional Airport. This airport offers flights to larger cities such as Detroit and Chicago as well as smaller regional airports throughout Michigan and beyond.
Finally, for those looking for alternative forms of transportation, there are plenty of bike paths throughout the county that can be used to explore its many parks and trails or simply enjoy a leisurely ride on a sunny day. Additionally, kayaking down one of Branch County’s many rivers or lakes can be a fun way to explore its natural beauty while getting some exercise at the same time.
Cities and towns in Branch County, Michigan
According to Countryaah, Branch County, Michigan is full of small towns and cities that each offer something unique for visitors to explore. The county seat is Coldwater, a city of about 10,000 people located in the north-central part of the county. Coldwater offers visitors a range of attractions such as its historic downtown area with its many shops and restaurants, the Tibbits Opera House, and the Branch County Fairgrounds.
Another popular town in Branch County is Quincy, located just south of Coldwater. Quincy is home to several parks and trails as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Just outside Quincy lies the popular Round Lake park which offers visitors plenty of activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.
Further south lies the city of Bronson which has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its rural charm and many outdoor activities such as biking trails, camping sites at nearby state parks, canoeing on local rivers or lakes, and much more.
Finally, there are several smaller towns throughout Branch County that offer visitors a glimpse into rural Michigan life including Union City with its historic buildings; Tekonsha with its quaint downtown area; Sherwood which has been growing in popularity due to its proximity to larger cities like Kalamazoo; Colon which is home to an annual festival celebrating local history; and Athens with its charming downtown area full of shops and restaurants.
No matter what you’re looking for during your visit to Branch County there’s something for everyone. From small towns full of rural charm to larger cities offering plenty of attractions – you’re sure to find something memorable during your visit.