As the air gets colder and the number of sunny days dwindles, it’s easy to opt for indoor activities in lieu of going outside. However, I know that I feel better, emotionally and physically, when I dedicate time to being outdoors. As hiking trails are more plentiful in my rural hometown and as I am used to being able to easily drive anywhere, living in Ann Arbor without a car is an adjustment, to say the least. I know I still need to prioritize getting outside, so I did some research to help me–and you–know where to go to enjoy Tree Town’s natural offerings!
Here are some of my recommendations!
Close to Campus:
Nichols Arboretum couldn’t be anywhere but first on this list! The Arb is an Ann Arbor landmark, with its lovely trails, open areas, benches, and Huron River frontage. The peony garden is gorgeous and I’m sure you’ll notice it all over your Insta feed come spring. There is so much to learn about this stunning spot, so stop by the visitor center if you wish. The Arb’s location is optimal for students to access it, as it is very close to both the hospital and Mary Markley Hall, walkable from anywhere on Central Campus, and there are many bus stops close by.
Fuller Park is essentially across the street from our recreational sports field, Mitchell Field. It is also close to the hospital and an M-Bus stop for several routes that run between North and Central campuses. With trails, picnic areas, a pool, Huron River frontage, access to the Island Park and the Cedar Bend Nature Area, and dogs allowed, this park has a lot to offer!
West Park is on the western edge of downtown, about a 20-minute walk from Central Campus. If you’re looking for a nice place to walk or a place to play basketball or tennis or picnic, this is a great spot to go! Fun fact: The West Park Bandshell is a quintessentially charming old Ann Arbor landmark that used to be a music venue, and there are exciting talks of restoring it and hosting events there again!
If You Have a Car:
Go to Dexter! (~20 minute drive.)
Mill Creek runs through the west side of downtown Dexter, and I’d recommend going to Mill Creek Park (pictured!) if you want to sit and read or study by the creek. If you’re up for a longer walk, run, or bike ride, head north on the path from Mill Creek Park, passing the Dexter Library. Eventually, this trail out of Dexter leads to Hudson Mills Metropark, which is a great spot to spend an afternoon, with canoeing and kayaking (rentals available during certain times of the year), sports fields and courts, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and more.
Go to Pinckney! (~30 minute drive.)
Over 17 miles long, the Pinckney-Potawatomi trail is a must if you’re looking for a longer hike, or if you’re an experienced mountain biker looking for an awesome trail. The Pinckney State Recreation Area epitomizes some of the best Southeast Michigan has to offer. The park allows dogs, has picnic spots, and has several small lakes. Aside from the 17-mile trail, there are also much shorter trails available, like the Silver Lake Trail and the Crooked Lake Trail.
Now that you’ve looked at my list, I hope you get out there and enjoy the trails! Take a friend or even go solo (if you feel comfortable), and use as many opportunities as possible to decompress in nature. No matter the time of year, you really can get outside and enjoy Tree Town’s natural offerings!