Explore the Innovative, Cultured and EcoFriendly Outdoors of Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor, Michigan is a vibrant city with a diverse population that values intellectualism and innovation. Its also an ecofriendly city that prides itself on sustainability. So for those looking to explore the outdoors while experiencing these aspects of Ann Arbors character shouldnt miss out on visiting several parks.

First up is Matthaei Botanical Gardens (1800 N Dixboro Rd.), which showcases over 11 acres of native plants and ecosystems. Visitors can take a stroll through various gardens such as woodland wildflowers, rock garden or great lakes garden to experience firsthand some of Michigans unique flora. You might even come across rare species like spotted salamanders in the shaded ponds among other animals hiding throughout this urban oasis.

Next stop should be The Nichols Arboretum (1610 Washington Heights) located right along the Huron River just east of central campus at University of Michigan where visitors can hike its three miles trails woven through deciduous forest which transitions into savanna and prairie landscapes filled with wildflowers from spring until fall harvest time.. Along your trek you will find beautiful plant specimens arranged by their regions they are found all around the world alongside benches perfect for relaxation among nature when taking in scenic views overlooking nearby downtown areas..

For those interested in bird watching there is no better spot than Bird Hills Nature Area (1901 Newport Road). This green space has more than enough variety to keep your binoculars busy for hours including Carolina wrens among many others getting ready to migrate southward after summer ends.

If youre looking for water activities like kayaking or swimming, then head over to Gallup Park (3000 Fuller Rd.) located near both Huron River and Geddes Pond accessible via walking paths adjacent to bordering neighborhoods stretching into Island Park Wildlife Sanctuarywhich features meandering river channels bordered by wetlands and savannas home to various bird species that visit each year for nesting.

Lastly, the new bordertoborder trail (B2B) goes through Ann Arbor all the way up northward over 20 miles into nearby communities such as Dexter, Chelsea & further. The bike path is great for biking enthusiasts who want to enjoy picturesque views of local nature areas without worrying about car traffic on streets.

Ann Arbor may be a city but its clear there are plenty of opportunities to experience nature just steps away from its urban core with ample amount trails, parks and wildlife accessible by foot or by bike.. Visitors will leave feeling refreshed after their ecologically friendly journey in this progressive community.

Facts:

Matthaei Botanical Gardens highlights native plants of Michigan.

Nichols Arboretum features three miles of trails including varying landscapes.

Bird Hills Nature Area has a diverse variety of birds including Carolina wrens.

Gallup Park has water activities like kayaking along Huron River and Geddes Pond

BordertoBorder Trail is a bikers dream boasting scenic routes linking communities while highlighting green spaces around Ann Arbor.

Websites:

www.a2gov.org/government/communityservices/ParksandRecreation/parks/ Pages/MatthaeiBotanicalGardens.aspx

www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg/hikingvisiting/nicholsarboretum_ci

https://naturerocks.org/findanadventure/birdhillsnaturearea/

www.mlive.com/news/annarbor/index.ssf/2018/06/new_border_bicycle_trail_link.html">https://mbgna.umich.edu/matthaeibotanicalgardens/

www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg/hikingvisiting/nicholsarboretum_ci

https://naturerocks.org/findanadventure/birdhillsnaturearea/

www.mlive.com/news/annarbor/index.ssf/2018/06/new_border_bicycle_trail_link.html