Trails

Rail trail: The 3 acre strip that runs through the heart of the nature center was once the road bed of the “Interurban” railway. Deeded at one time to the Jackson-Albion Electric Railway CO. The company operated between 1904-1929, and remnants of the telegraph poles are still visible in spots along this trail.

River’s Edge trail: This .7 mile long trail takes around 40 minutes to hike. It is narrow and meanders low lands along the Kalamazoo river. This trail can be very muddy during certain times of the year; however with proper footwear, this can be a beautiful walk.

Ecology trail: Betty Beese Ecology Trail; the ecology trail is about 1.5 miles long and is composed of 3 loops. It offers views of old fence rows and field habitats, as well as a conifer plantation and now naturalized drainage ditch, originally constructed in 1910. One of the loops also includes 3 ponds that are great for wildlife viewing.

Prairie trail: The Wesley Arden Dick Prairie Trail, just over 1 mile long. The hike down this trail features a favorite spot along the Kalamazoo River to many, as well as a beautiful demonstration of a prairie.

Arboretum trail: This loop features the Stowell arboretum, named after former Biology professor Doc Stowell, who especially loved trees. Many of the trees planted in the arboretum commemorate anniversaries, birthdays, deaths, and other special occasions.

Wren trail: The Dale Kennedy and Doug White Wren loops. The trail meanders roughly the path taken by Dale and Doug, who have studied house wrens here for more than two decades. This section of the nature center offers views of many different habitat types, with several opportunities to view birds and other wildlife found on the property.

Marsh trail: The McIntyre Marsh trail. CURRENTLY CLOSED AND PENDING REPAIRS. This trail is about .5 mile long and showcases the theme of marshland ecology and the importance of wetlands. It can be muddy in the areas without boardwalk, so bring your boots!