Located between Geddes Avenue and the Huron River, Nichol’s Arboretum (commonly referred to as “the Arb”) is a great place to exercise with friends, picnic, or just relax with a book. Some notable features include the Peony Garden, located by the Washington Heights entrance, and the Huron River. To cool off in the hot, summer months you can canoe, kayak or float down the river on an inner tube. With over 4 miles of well marked trails , you can spend an entire afternoon exploring this expansive green space. Here, you can find an online map of the Arb to prepare before you venture out.
The Arb is also home to many native and exotic plants and trees. There are lots of markers that list the names of the plants and trees present in that area and be sure to keep a look out for poisonous plant warnings!
From sunrise until sunset , the Arb is open seven days a week. There are often police cars patrolling after hours, so make sure to leave before close, or you may be faced with a trespassing fine. There are three main entrances: off of Geddes Ave. by Oxford Housing, off of Washington Heights by Markley Hall, and through the River entry which is down by the University Hospital.
Be sure to follow these rules to ensure your visit to the Arb is safe:
- Stay on the paths in wooded areas & do not handle wildlife
- Alcohol, campfires, and outdoor cooking are not permitted
- Dogs and other pets must be on leashes
- Bicycles are prohibited through the Arb
Contributed by Callie Kalinowski