Unique Nature Hikes
Take the Whole Family Outdoors With a New-to-You Trail
The area surrounding Chelsea boasts no shortage of stunning nature hikes with the extensive Waterloo Recreation Area, Border-to-Border Trail, and DTE Energy Trail all offering miles of exploration. But beyond the major state park and trails, the Chelsea area is also home to many smaller and unique routes that offer beautiful scenery and tranquil woods, and are perfect for a shorter stroll–and shorter legs. With easy parking and free entry, here are a few trails that the whole family can easily enjoy:
Robin Hills Farm
Take in a variety of vistas at Robin Hills Farm. With more than 129 acres, the property is home to over three miles of trails, which wind throughout the farm’s picturesque landscape. Michigan’s varied ecosystems are on full display here. Check out the tamarack swamps, hardwood forests and fungi unique to our area. Admire the forested trails displaying each season’s glory, cross over a charming brook, and see the mushroom grove. See the animals up close as you stroll past the organic farm. Try the loop around the 3-acre Dragon Pond and pop over the bridge to its intimate island for an exceptional view of the Prairie House and patio.
For extra fun, make your hike a scavenger hunt adventure and bring a copy of Robin Hills Farm Discovery Worksheet with you. Parking is free and open to the public, and conveniently located near the trailhead. Click here to download a trail map. And if you want to time your hike strategically, stop by The Nest for refreshments. We serve a variety of local beer and hand-crafted cocktails with fresh ingredients. Open Wednesdays, 6-9pm, Thursdays and Fridays, 5-11pm and Saturdays, 2-11pm.
West Lake Nature Preserve
For an easy walk with a destination in mind, try the forested trail leading to the shoreline of West Lake. Keep your eye out for a variety of birds and wildlife. The full loop is over two miles, with several options to take smaller loops into the interior wooded area. The preserve is located at 21598 Waterloo Road, Chelsea. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Hospital to Silver Maples Path
Enjoy a leisurely out-and-back walk through varied terrains along the community wellness paths located behind St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea to the Silver Maples Retirement Neighborhood. Designed by Silver Maples, and funded by the Chelsea-Area Wellness Foundation, the paths are open to the public and offer several options to add mileage or loops to extend each walk. Convenient to downtown parking, start the trail by walking along Silver Maples Drive toward the hospital. Pick up the wood chip and dirt trail through the woods, which connects to the paved path leading to the Silver Maples Retirement Neighborhood. From there, add on additional loops to the Senior Center and St. Mary Parish and St. Paul UCC, before turning back.
Oak Grove Cemetery
Take a serene walk among the stately oak trees and memorials to Chelsea’s past residents along this 1.75 mile loop leading to the historic Oak Grove Cemetery, which was established in 1860. Park downtown and start on Main Street at East Middle Street. Turn right to follow East Middle to the Oak Grove Cemetery entrance and follow the path through the grounds.
Wherever your legs take you this fall, we hope you enjoy some rejuvenating time outdoors.