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Fox Science Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 85 Google reviews · Running trail in Ann Arbor, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Fox Science Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Former gravel pit transformed into a nature preserve with trails for hiking and birdwatching.
What runners say about Fox Science Preserve
“Beautiful trees, tall grasses and shrubs; Natural water features left over from when this was a quarry.”
Found this little gem by accident, now it's a favorite of my 2 year old and myself! This old gravel pit has been given back to mother nature and we have the privilege of enjoying her handiwork.
This is a good place to explore. Usually no one else is there and it is quiet. The landscaping is so strange it feels like you are in another state or on another planet. You can climb up the hills and get a good view. They’re also informational signs to learn about the geology of the area.
Park offers a lot to younger explorers/hikers. Road leading to park is dirt. Trail head is well marked. No restrooms, which can be a challenge with younger hikers. A wide variety of rocks/boulders with educational signage. Most trails are groomed for easy walking, but more adventurous options exist.
Natural walk. Amazing birding opportunities. Baltimore Orioles, Eastern Touhee, Gray Catbird and Red Winged Blackbirds are among many migratory birds.
Trail conditions & character
“This old gravel pit has been given back to mother nature and we have the privilege of enjoying her handiwork.”
“Beautiful trees, tall grasses and shrubs; Natural water features left over from when this was a quarry.”
“A surprise for a nice short hike, ponds, hills fossils on big rocks!”
Plan your run at Fox Science Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Websitewashtenaw.org
- Phone+1 734-971-6337
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
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