Ann Arbor delivers a variety of outdoor adventures, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The city’s mix of parks, trails, and waterways provides countless ways to connect with the outdoors.
With lush green spaces and well-maintained facilities, Ann Arbor offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These outdoor gems promise a refreshing escape for those looking to unwind or embrace a bit of adventure.
1. Gallup Park
Gallup Park’s 69 acres make it one of Ann Arbor’s most beloved outdoor destinations. Situated along the Huron River and Geddes Pond, the park boasts scenic walkways connecting small islands via pedestrian bridges. It’s more than just a park—it’s a hub for family outings, with picnic areas, grills, playgrounds, and a variety of watercraft rentals like kayaks and paddleboats.
The paved trails attract joggers and cyclists, while the Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden offers a quiet retreat. Gallup Park also serves as a key link in the Border-to-Border (B2B) Trail.
Activities: Kayaking, paddleboating, jogging, family picnics.
Tips: Perfect for beginners learning to paddle. Rent a kayak or canoe to fully enjoy the river views.
2. Nichols Arboretum (“The Arb”)
Nichols Arboretum provides a tranquil retreat with its 123 acres of diverse landscapes managed by the University of Michigan. Within this expanse, the 34-acre Arboretum Nature Area offers unpaved trails that wind through rolling terrain, meadows, and wooded areas. Highlights include the historic W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden and riverside trails lined with water-loving plants.
The James D. Reader Jr. Urban Environmental Education Center at the Washington Heights entrance provides helpful resources. While not all trails are wheelchair-accessible, the varied terrain caters to hikers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, or relaxing amid nature.
Tips: Visit during the peony bloom season for a truly memorable experience.
3. Argo Park and Cascades
Argo Park combines natural beauty and outdoor fun along its 22 acres beside the Huron River. The Argo Canoe Livery is a bustling spot for renting kayaks, tubes, and canoes, making it a favorite for water-based activities. The Argo Cascades add a sense of adventure with a series of small rapids and rock chutes that create a dynamic paddling experience.
For those who prefer land-based activities, the 2.2-mile Argo Pond loop connects to Bandemer Park and beyond via the B2B Trail. Whether you’re tubing through the cascades or enjoying the serene river views, Argo Park offers a versatile outdoor experience.
Activities: Tubing, kayaking, walking along the cascades.
Tips: Wear water shoes to navigate the cascades safely and comfortably.
4. Bandemer Park
Bandemer Park provides a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts with its 38 acres of natural beauty along the Huron River. The park features a mix of paved and dirt trails, a canoe dock, fishing pier, disc golf course, and picnic areas equipped with grills.
The Ann Arbor Rowing Club operates here, and visitors can enjoy views of the boathouse or join a learn-to-row program. For those who prefer birdwatching or photography, Bandemer offers serene riverside settings and unique wildlife habitats.
Activities: Fishing, golfing, walking, and relaxing by the Huron River.
Tips: Visit in the early morning for the best birdwatching opportunities.
5. Barton Nature Area
Barton Nature Area’s 98 acres offer a blend of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and access to the Huron River. Barton Pond, located within the park, supplies most of Ann Arbor’s drinking water and creates a tranquil setting for fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking. The earthen embankment atop Barton Dam offers sweeping views of the river.
Trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, prairie, and mesic forest, providing ample opportunities for exploring natural habitats. The area also connects to Bird Hills Nature Area, allowing for extended hikes.
Activities: Hiking, photography, and picnicking.
Tips: Don’t miss the peaceful views from the Barton Dam, especially at sunset.
6. Island Park
Island Park’s 5.6 acres provide a picturesque setting along the Huron River. The park includes two picnic shelters, a Greek Revival pavilion, and walking paths that connect to nearby parks like Fuller and Riverside. Ideal for family outings, it features play areas, picnic tables, and seasonal restrooms.
Paddlers can use the designated boat landing to access the river or enjoy a short hike back to starting points like Argo or Wall Street. The park’s riverside trails are a favorite among nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the serene environment and observe local wildlife.
Activities: Picnicking, walking, and enjoying river views.
Tips: Reserve a pavilion for family gatherings or group events.
7. West Park
Located just west of downtown, West Park spans 27 acres of rolling hills, majestic oaks, and a charming pond. This open space includes paved walking paths, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a playground.
A historic bandshell, though currently closed, remains a focal point, and the park’s connection to a Native American trail adds historical intrigue. Community gardens and bioswales maintained by volunteers reflect Ann Arbor’s commitment to preserving native ecosystems. The park’s Champion Trees—massive examples of burr and northern red oaks—add to its appeal for those seeking a unique outdoor experience.
Activities: Picnics, exploring native plant bioswales, and relaxing near the pond.
Tips: Visit during the fall to enjoy the vibrant foliage.
8. Olson Park
Olson Park offers 54 acres of versatile recreation, featuring wetlands, woods, and a pond designed for stormwater management. Trails cater to both pedestrians and cyclists, with single-track paths suited for beginner and intermediate mountain bikers.
The park also includes a dog park, basketball court, rock-climbing playground, and picnic shelter with electrical outlets. Its preserved natural features and recreational facilities make it a favorite for families, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts. A looped paved pathway provides a scenic route around the pond.
Activities: Walking, biking, and enjoying nature with your pets.
Tips: Bring your camera to capture the scenic wetlands, especially during golden hour.
9. Buhr Park
Buhr Park is a 39-acre space blending recreation and natural beauty in southeastern Ann Arbor. With softball diamonds, tennis courts, a playground, and open fields, it caters to a wide range of activities. The park is home to an outdoor ice arena and pool, making it a year-round destination.
Highlights include a rolling sledding hill during winter and stormwater features like rain gardens. Adjacent to Cobblestone Farm, Buhr Park provides a mix of modern amenities and historic charm.
Activities: Swimming, ice skating (seasonal), and exploring the children’s wet meadow project.
Tips: A great choice for families wanting varied activities in one convenient location.
10. Huron Hills Golf Course
Huron Hills Golf Course offers a picturesque 18-hole course suited for golfers of all skill levels. Established in 1922, it features dramatic elevation changes and scenic views of the Huron River.
This par-67 course is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for beginners, juniors, and families while still presenting challenges for experienced players. Open from March through early December, the course invites visitors to enjoy a peaceful golfing experience amid nature.
Activities: Golfing with friends or enjoying the serene open green space.
Tips: Opt for twilight golfing for a quieter and scenic round.
11. Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery
Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery is a gateway to the calmest stretch of the Huron River. Located near Delhi Metropark, it has been a family-friendly destination for paddling, kayaking, and tubing since 1973.
Trips launch hourly, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. With no dams or portages, the experience is hassle-free, making it accessible for all. A seasonal permit or daily pass is required for Metropark access, easily purchased at the park entrance.
Activities: Paddle through calm waters while soaking in the beauty of the Huron River.
Tips: Call ahead during peak seasons to reserve your spot and ensure availability.
Notable Mentions Outside Ann Arbor
1. Independence Lake County Park
Independence Lake County Park offers year-round activities across its diverse habitats of wetlands, prairies, and oak stands. Summer visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking, while the Blue Heron Bay Spray Park entertains kids with water slides and jets. Winter transforms the park into a hub for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Disc golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Red Hawk course’s 36 holes.
Activities: Hiking, disc golfing, kayaking, and seasonal spray park fun.
Tips: Check out the park’s brochure to plan your activities efficiently.
2. Hudson Mills Metropark
Hudson Mills Metropark spans over 1,500 acres along the Huron River and features well-maintained trails, disc golf courses, and an 18-hole golf course. Hikers and bikers can enjoy scenic routes connecting to downtown Dexter, while anglers will find the river teeming with fishing opportunities. Winter visitors can use the cross-country skiing trails for a refreshing outdoor workout.
Activities: Golfing, hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling.
Tips: Pack a lunch and make use of the picnic areas for a mid-day break.
Conclusion
Ann Arbor delivers an abundance of outdoor adventures, with activities ranging from tranquil walks through nature to kayaking on the Huron River.
Mix serene escapes with active pursuits to create a day tailored to your preferences. For those willing to travel a short distance, the notable mentions offer even more opportunities to immerse yourself in Michigan’s great outdoors.
