Our Best Nature Hikes Near Ann Arbor, MI
These are some of our favorite nature hikes near Ann Arbor.
If you’re an avid hiker or just want to go for a walk and enjoy the scenery, consider one of these local trails.
Fall Color Trek in The Bird Hills Nature Area
Beautiful birdsong and glorious fall colors combine to make a visit to Ann Arbor’s Bird Hills Nature Area a walk to remember. The Bird Hills Nature Area rises above a great bend in the Huron River west of Ann Arbor. Encompassing 146 acres, it is the largest natural area in the city’s park system. With a variety of pathways, hikers will find a sanctuary in this hilly woodland.
A Beautiful Forest on the Edge of Ann Arbor – Scio Woods Preserve
There is nothing more enjoyable on the mind than wandering through a pristine woodland preserve. Scio Woods Preserve certainly is one of the places to go when your soul needs finding.
Exploring the Past at Fox Science Preserve
Fox Science Preserve sits between Ann Arbor and Dexter in an old gravel quarry. The machines that dug deep into the soil are now gone, leaving behind a scene not too different from the glacial moraines of 12,000 years ago. This rocky and barren surface soon was recognized as a natural classroom for the study of biological succession. Teachers, students, and parents began exploring the boulders and limestone surfaces, observing as nature begins its transformation of the empty quarry into a fully functioning ecosystem.
Lillie Park – Pittsfield, MI
Lillie Park sits in 124 acres of restored land in Pittsfield Township. Once a gravel pit, the area has been transformed into play areas and beautiful walking trails.
The Lively Lagoon at North Bay Park
North Bay Park is a hidden treasure. The park features a network of trails, a raised boardwalk, an observation tower, fishing platforms and a fitness trail. These are all built around a central lagoon that is abounding with waterfowl, turtles and lotus flowers. It is absolutely one of the prettiest parks in the county.
Low-Key Peonies at The Arb – Ann Arbor, MI
Peonies at Nichols Arboretum Every spring the Nichols Arboretum Peony garden bursts into bloom. Over the years, I’ve gone to this garden to photograph these incredible flowers. This year, armed with a new, low-key photography method, I’m heading back to get some great close-ups of these historic blossoms.