Best nature preserves for hiking in Michigan

For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2142 North Genesee Road in Burton, Michigan, United States. This institution boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as beautifully maintained gardens and walking trails for visitors to explore. With its serene atmosphere and educational programs, For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural oasis in the heart of Michigan.

Grass River Natural Area is a stunning park located at 6500 Alden Highway in Bellaire, Michigan, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the serene surroundings of lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful river views. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in nature, Grass River Natural Area is the perfect destination. With its diverse flora and fauna, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Plan your visit today with Grass River Natural Area travel agency and experience the beauty of Michigan's natural landscape.

Avalanche Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 1129 Wilson Street in Boyne City, Michigan, United States. This stunning preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of northern Michigan, with scenic hiking trails, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an outdoor adventure with friends and family, Avalanche Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Boyne City.

Howard Christensen Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 16190 Red Pine Drive Northwest in Kent City, Michigan, United States. Nestled upon 135 acres of natural ecosystems, the Nature Center serves as a refuge for a variety of plants and wildlife. With diverse habitats, numerous trails for hiking and camping, and community-based programs, Howard Christensen Nature Center offers something for everyone to enjoy. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and respect for the natural world, increase awareness of environmental concerns, and encourage individuals to maintain Earth's ecology. Your support through donations helps us preserve the forest, maintain our trail systems, and provide important community programming. We ensure that everyone has access to our facility, regardless of their ability to pay.

DeYoung Natural Area is a park and tourist attraction located at 9509 East Cherry Bend Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. Visitors can explore the 28 natural areas and preserves, offering activities such as hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, and snowshoeing. The institution's mission is to conserve the land, water, and scenic character of Leelanau County. Founded in 1988, DeYoung Natural Area is dedicated to protecting the unique landscape of the Leelanau Peninsula. Members of the Conservancy feel connected to their home and are committed to giving back to the community. With a focus on conservation and preservation, DeYoung Natural Area offers a place for visitors to reconnect with nature and experience the healing powers of spending time outdoors.

Torch Bay Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 12674-12970 Traverse Bay Road in Kewadin, Michigan, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with picturesque views of Torch Bay and its surrounding landscapes. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere, Torch Bay Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Northern Michigan.

Blandford Nature Center, located at 1715 Hillburn Avenue Northwest in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a beautiful park dedicated to providing environmental education and conservation experiences. With over 143 acres of diverse habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, visitors can explore and learn about the natural world around them. The center offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including guided hikes, wildlife encounters, and hands-on learning opportunities. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and discover the wonders of Blandford Nature Center.

Located at 7000 North Westnedge Avenue in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the Kalamazoo Nature Center is a popular park and tourist attraction offering over 15 miles of hiking trails, educational programs, special events, and rotating exhibits in the Visitor Center. One of the current exhibits, "Roots of Wisdom: Native Knowledge, Shared Science," explores the intersection of traditional knowledge and Western science in improving our relationship with the natural world. The center also conducts scientific and land management activities such as bird banding, community science projects, conservation work for endangered species, and wildlife habitat management. With both indoor and outdoor venues available for special events and retreats, KNC is just a short drive from downtown Kalamazoo. Membership grants access to the Visitor Center, trails, exhibits, programs, and events for one year. The center aims to inspire everyone to connect with nature on a daily basis and offers a variety of programs for all ages and interests. Additionally, KNC acknowledges the historical injustices that have led to disparities in access to nature and is committed to becoming a more inclusive and community-focused organization. Please note that KNC is a non-profit nature preserve and does not allow dogs, camping, drones, firearms, bicycles, or motorized vehicles on the trails.

The Kensington Nature Center is a tranquil oasis located in Milford Charter Township, Michigan, United States. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks. The center also features educational exhibits and programs that showcase the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found in the area. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings and learn about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or embark on an educational adventure, the Kensington Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located at 6375 Cherry Hill Road in Superior Charter Township, Michigan, United States. This beautiful tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind, Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and explore the natural beauty of this hidden gem in Michigan.

Bandemer Nature Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1352 Lake Shore Drive in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and serene atmosphere, Bandemer Nature Area is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, this park is a must-visit destination in Ann Arbor.

Stage Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 6685 Coolidge Highway in Troy, Michigan. This natural oasis offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with the great outdoors. With miles of scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and educational programs, Stage Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, this park has something for everyone. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Stage Nature Center today!

The Drayton Plains Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 2125 Denby Drive in Waterford Township, Michigan. This peaceful sanctuary offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Please note that no alcohol is allowed in or around the facility. For more information about the Nature Center, be sure to like us on Facebook.

Holliday Nature Preserve, located at 6935 North Hix Road in Westland, Michigan, is a park and tourist attraction that is part of the Wayne County Parks system. Spanning over 500 acres of forests and wetlands along the Rouge River tributaries, the Preserve offers a serene and picturesque setting in the midst of the bustling county. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography in this natural oasis. The Holliday Nature Preserve Association (HNPA) was established in 1988 by volunteers dedicated to the William P. Holliday Forest & Wildlife Preserve. Named in memory of William P. Holliday, the preserve aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the local natural environment through guided walks and educational programs. The organization collaborates with Wayne County Parks to enhance visitor experiences through maintenance and improvements.

Red Oaks Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 30300 Hales Street in Madison Heights, Michigan, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and educational programs, Red Oaks Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come visit and experience the tranquility and serenity of this stunning natural oasis.

Bear Creek Nature Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 740 West Snell Road in Rochester, Michigan. This park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature with its lush forests, serene wetlands, and winding trails. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, Bear Creek Nature Park is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply relax in a tranquil setting, this park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, located at 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, Michigan, is a local government office and park dedicated to preserving and showcasing the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can explore the center's exhibits, take guided nature walks, and participate in educational programs that highlight the flora and fauna of the region. The center also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Marsin Nature Area & Retreat is a serene and picturesque park located on Red Brick Road in Houghton, Michigan. This beautiful tourist attraction offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax and unwind or a scenic spot to enjoy outdoor activities, Marsin Nature Area & Retreat is the perfect destination for a memorable experience in the United States.

Mason Nature Area is a peaceful and picturesque park located at 500 Franklin Street in Houghton, Michigan, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails, lush greenery, and stunning views. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax and unwind, Mason Nature Area provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Echo Lake Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Co Rd 550 in Negaunee, Michigan, United States. This 480-acre preserve is just a short distance from Marquette and features granite cliff-top views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of habitats including forests, wetlands, and ponds. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and canoeing throughout the year. The preserve is home to species such as moose, gray wolves, river otters, and migratory birds. Echo Lake Nature Preserve offers opportunities for exploration and connection with nature, whether through geocaching, webinars, events, or volunteer opportunities. Visitors can also use iNaturalist to record observations and help identify species in the preserve. The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with other conservation organizations, has worked to protect this area for future generations to enjoy.

The William B. Derby Nature Preserve is a popular park and tourist attraction located in Cedarville, Michigan. This beautiful preserve is dominated by cedar trees and features hummocky topography with large, moss-covered boulders scattered throughout. The porous limestone/dolomite rocks are home to nurse trees, creating a magical atmosphere for hikers. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5-mile trail loop that offers stunning views of "The Snows Channel," a great spot for birdwatching and kayaking. The preserve is also a designated stop along the North Huron Birding Trail. Public parking is available, thanks to the Les Cheneaux Club and Les Cheneaux Community Foundation.

The Hoogland Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 4135 South Lake Shore Drive in Harbor Springs, Michigan, United States. Spanning nearly 3,000 feet along Scenic Heritage Route M-119, also known as the Tunnel of Trees, this preserve offers a unique natural experience. The landscape of the preserve varies, with flat areas on the west side and rolling ridges to the east. The forest is filled with large red oak trees and features a classic maple and beech northern upland forest typical of northwestern Emmet County. In the spring, the woods come alive with trillium, trout lily, spring beauty, and other spring ephemerals.

Round Lake Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3264 Powell Road in Harbor Springs, Michigan, United States. Formerly known as the Little Traverse Bay Golf Club, this beautiful property was transformed into a nature preserve in early 2020. The goal of the preserve is to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas, while also fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment. Thanks to the generous support of the Offield Family Foundation, most of the purchase price was covered, allowing the Little Traverse Conservancy to acquire the property and ensure its long-term protection. Visitors to Round Lake Nature Preserve can now enjoy the peaceful surroundings, explore the diverse ecosystems, and appreciate the natural beauty of this special place. Whether you're a nature lover, a hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Round Lake Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination in Harbor Springs.

The Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve, located along the lower Pigeon River in Afton, Michigan, is a serene park and tourist attraction offering pine forests, steep bluffs, and over five miles of trails to explore. Donated by Agnes S. Andreae in 1983, the preserve has since expanded to 181 acres with a cabin, footbridge, and hiking trail. The adjacent Boyd B. Banwell Preserve offers additional hunting opportunities. The Nature Megaphone on the Banwell Preserve allows visitors to enhance their sensory experience in nature. The Andreae Cabin is available for use by non-profit or community groups with reservations. Visit this beautiful preserve to enjoy the peaceful wilderness and discover the diverse plants and animals it houses.

The Winchester Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2488 Lake 26 Road in Charlevoix, Michigan, United States. This peaceful and serene preserve offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, the Winchester Family Nature Preserve is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in nature, this park has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty of the Winchester Family Nature Preserve for yourself.

Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve, located at 1122 Sleepy Hollow Lane in East Jordan, Michigan, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The preserve is home to the serene Sear Creek, which is a habitat for brook trout and flows into the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix. The forest is filled with Sugar Maple, American Beech, Ash, Aspen, and Hemlock trees, creating a picturesque landscape. The preserve's second growth forest is a reminder of its logging history, with large stumps and fire scars scattered throughout. Donated anonymously to the Conservancy in 1980, Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve plays a crucial role in protecting the Lake Charlevoix Watershed. Visitors can explore the preserve by following Sleepy Hollow Lane, opposite Phelps Road, for a peaceful and educational experience. The institution encourages guests to use the iNaturalist guide to discover the diverse plants and animals that call the preserve home, and to contribute to conservation efforts through iNaturalist.org and eBird.org. Plan a visit to Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve for a relaxing and enriching outdoor experience.

North Point Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located on Mount McSauba Road in Charlevoix, Michigan. This 28-acre park offers a peaceful escape into nature, with a .65 mile wooded trail that provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding wildlife. The preserve is home to three threatened plant species, making it a unique and important ecological area. Adjacent to the Mt. McSauba Recreation Area, North Point Nature Preserve is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a network of trails that are perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the winter months. Despite the proximity to the city, the preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, porcupines, and shore birds.

Cosner Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Michigan 66 in East Jordan, Michigan, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With well-maintained trails, lush greenery, and breathtaking views, Cosner Preserve is the perfect place to explore nature, go for a leisurely hike, or simply relax and unwind in a serene environment. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for a tranquil getaway, Cosner Preserve is a must-visit destination in Michigan.

Brinkman Bog Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located on Murray Road in Traverse City, Michigan. This beautiful nature preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into the natural world, with its lush forests, tranquil wetlands, and diverse wildlife. Perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts, this hidden gem is a must-visit tourist attraction in the United States. Explore the winding trails, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Brinkman Bog Nature Preserve.

Located at 14999 North Cathead Bay Drive in Northport, Michigan, the Lighthouse West Natural Area is a part of the Leelanau Conservancy. This institution offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, and snowshoeing across its 28 natural areas and preserves. The healing powers of nature are evident here, as visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula. The Leelanau Conservancy was founded 33 years ago with a mission to conserve the land, water, and scenic character of Leelanau County. One of their earliest projects was the preservation of Victoria Creek, also known as the Cedar River or the Solon Swamp, with the help of passionate citizens. Another gem within the conservancy is the Hatlem Creek Preserve near Glen Lake, offering spongy wetlands and old two-track trails for exploration.