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University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,333 Google reviews · Running trail in Ann Arbor, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum'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.
Tranquil garden with spring-blooming flowers, popular for quiet walks, painting & photography.
What runners say about University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
“We went there last spring to do my daughters senior pictures, it was absolutely beautiful!”
We went there last spring to do my daughters senior pictures, it was absolutely beautiful! We walked the area, went down by the water and loved walking through the gorgeous flowers! Absolutely beautiful area!
This is the most beautiful garden I’ve ever been to! And it’s free. For the peony garden, peak season is mid to late May, but follow their social for updates. You can park in M34 Parking lot or various street parking near the garden.
Lovely arboretum by campus for students! Great on a fall day but slippery in the winter. Such nice views and diverse walking areas. Flat areas, stair portions, and just cool walking paths in general. You can see an overview of trees from a distance, the river, or just big open spaces.
My friends and I had a great day at the Peony gardens in Ann Arbor. They are breathtaking. They also have a trail walk where you can walk down to the river. It's a challenge getting back up the hill, but if you take your time it's doable.
Trail conditions & character
“We went there last spring to do my daughters senior pictures, it was absolutely beautiful!”
“You can park in M34 Parking lot or various street parking near the garden.”
Plan your run at University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitembgna.umich.edu
- Phone+1 734-647-7600
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–8 pm |
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