Beautiful Paths @ Matthaei Botanical Gardens

I have been to the University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum a few times now. On our first trip, my family and I went for the nature center, Fairy Gardens, and walking paths. We left with cool Stick Crayons, my daughter’s first big lesson in orienteering with maps (find North and Rotate the Map to Match its direction), and love for Peonies.

Yesterday, we were headed out for new green spaces on the map for recreation.

Find Adventure Wherever You Are

I honestly just look at Google Maps and zoom in on the green parts of the map nearest to me. I have found some of the most enjoyable places!

We happened upon The Matthaei Botanical Garden Trails. The Matthaei Botanical Garden itself is closed because of the pandemic, however, its trails are plentiful and flowering. I saw my first Scarlet Tanager!

Parking is $2.40 per hour / $6 per day. See their parking guide for updated information.

We followed a shady path crossing a river for about 2 miles and saw so much great foliage, birds, and insects to observe.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens – Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum @mbgna