Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor, Michigan

A free 123-acre riverfront landscape with nearly 3.5 miles of trails, open valleys, woods, prairie, and a historic peony garden.

Families can follow nearly 3.5 miles of trails through woods, prairie, open valleys, and along the Huron River, with plenty of room for a nature walk or picnic. The W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden is a seasonal highlight, with nearly 800 plants producing more than 10,000 blooms at peak, typically from late May into mid-June depending on the weather.

Plan your visit

1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Nature · Outdoor · All ages

Hours

• Daily: Sunrise–sunset

Admission and practical details

Typical visit

Varies by trail and pace

Admission

Free

Parking

Limited metered street parking near Washington Heights and Observatory

Additional parking

U-M Blue Lot M28 is free after 5 PM weekdays and all day weekends

Trails

Nearly 3.5 miles; surfaces include gravel, slopes, steps, and rustic paths

Accessibility

Accessible Reader Center patio and seasonal accessible restrooms

Amenities

• Nature trails
• Open lawns and valleys
• Huron River access
• Picnic areas
• W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden
• Seasonal visitor center
• Seasonal restrooms

Good to know

• The Washington Heights entrance is closest to the Reader Center and Peony Garden; other entrances are at Geddes Road and Nichols Drive.
• The Reader Center, visitor information, and restrooms are generally available 10:00 AM–4:00 PM from April through October.
• Many trails are steep, stepped, gravel, or rustic and may not work for strollers or mobility devices.
• Dogs must stay leashed, and bicycles are not allowed on Arboretum trails.
• Parking is especially difficult during peak peony season; bloom timing varies with the weather.