Matthaei Botanical Gardens (Washtenaw County)

Join the Huron Valley Group of the Sierra Club for a scenic group hike through the beautiful Matthaei Botanical Gardens, a 300-acre preserve operated by the University of Michigan. This moderate, social-paced hike takes about two hours and winds through wetlands, forests, floodplain, prairie, and along peaceful Fleming Creek.

Register at: https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=701Po00001M3iH9IAJ

Along the way, hikers will explore Dix Pond, former farmland now reclaimed by nature, restored prairies near the historic Matteson homestead, oak and hickory uplands, and diverse habitats that support birds, turtles, pollinators, and other wildlife. This hike offers a unique look at ecological restoration, Michigan-native plants, and the evolving landscape shaped by both natural and human history.

Enjoy fresh air, rich natural beauty, and great company as we explore one of Ann Arbor’s most treasured natural areas together.

Meeting Time and Location:
We’ll meet at 9:15am at the main parking lot by the greenhouses with the hike beginning promptly at 9:30 AM. Address: 1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.

Hike Leader:
The leader of this hike is Ken from the Southeast Michigan Group and Steve from Huron Valley Group. For questions, email **sierra.club.semg@gmail.com**.

Participation Details:
For all our hikes, please remember to bring comfortable hiking shoes, a water bottle, food, and the season’s weather appropriate clothing. Participation in Sierra Club activities requires registration and acceptance of a waiver, which you can complete online at the link above. Electronic copies of the required waiver are available online or by request and will be accepted automatically by signing-in to the event.

All hikes are free and open to everyone, but donations are gratefully accepted to help support ongoing stewardship and programming.

Cancellation Policy:
The hike will proceed rain, snow, or shine. However, if an Extreme Weather Warning is issued by the National Weather Service, the hike will be canceled for safety reasons.

Park Pass Information:
When visiting a Michigan State Park, a Recreation Passport is required. The cost per vehicle is $14 when purchased during license plate registration renewal through the Secretary of State. Entrance to Metroparks requires a $40 annual pass or a $10 day pass. You may be able to purchase a day or annual pass at the park entrance booth.