Explore Nature in Picturesque Kalamazoo
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The first official day of summer is June 20 and there is no better time to get outside, relax, and enjoy the sunlight. With so many trails, parks, and scenic spots to choose from in Kalamazoo, knowing where to start can be difficult. Luckily, we compiled a handy list of picturesque locations to help you begin your journey.
Kicking off our list, we have a park that is within walking distance of downtown. As a subsidiary of the Kalamazoo Nature Center, the Urban Nature Park (UNP) is a four-acre, rehabilitated brownfield site. The UNP features a trail that runs alongside Portage Creek and allows bikers and hikers to observe the wildlife that dwells in the area.
The next place on our list is a great location for spending a lazy Sunday with the family. At 6.47 acres, Woods Lake Park contains a variety of attractions including a picnic pavilion, beach, and playground. The lake’s restriction on motorboats also provides visitors with peaceful kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities.
Consisting of 60 acres, Bow in the Clouds Preserve exhibits some truly breathtaking views of water-fed streams and wetlands. Thanks to 1,000 feet of boardwalk, what would normally be a difficult trudge through mud and undergrowth becomes an easy trek. Additionally, the preserve is home to waterfowl and specimens of red, white, and black oak trees.
The penultimate entry on our list blends accessibility with natural beauty. Made up of two three-quarter mile loops, Wolf Tree Nature Trails take visitors on a charming journey through forests and meadows. Eagle-eyed visitors might even be able to see the rare American Columbo on the trail’s 69 acres.
Our fifth and final entry is the largest location on our list at 70 acres. While the previous areas on our list have been ideal spots for nature walks, picnics, and family outings, Blanche Hull Park (Blanche Hull) is a go-to spot for dog owners thanks to its open fields and shady trees. Just like UNP, Blanche Hull features walking trails that run along Portage Creek.
This is just a handful of the many picturesque natural areas Kalamazoo has to offer. We hope you’ll get a chance to enjoy some our featured locations, and so much more during the summer months. Did we miss your go-to spot? Share it with us in the comments or on social media.
