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Print Friendly MapThis trail runs from the Matthaei Botanical Gardens two miles south to Parker Mill Park. It was conceived in response to the need for a safer alternative for non-motorized travelers. Dixboro Road only has a narrow shoulder, which both pedestrians and cyclists reluctantly used. The trail provides an alternative commuting corridor for students, locals and visitors away from the busy artery. It parallels the road, although it is not quite as straight. The path travels through some naturally scenic areas, including views of the Huron River.
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail is not just a wonderful recreational asset for Ann Arbor Township, but it also provides connections to other trails including the Border-to-Border Trail. Via these other links, the trail provides access from the botanical gardens to a range of institutions including the University of Michigan’s north and central campuses, UM Medical Center, Concordia University, Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw County Community College.
Parking is available at Parker Mill County Park. The park is located at 4650 Geddes Road. There is a parking lot at the Dixboro Road entrance.
The path is smooth wide and relatively flat, we enjoy biking thru the woods and love the scenery on this route. We tend to go back and forth a few times since it’s just shy of 2 miles total. The view and bridges are smooth and wide with lots of nature surrounding the path. We love it so much that the only thing we wish is that it was longer, but we just turn around at the end and follow back thru again ;) You do pay to park at the gardens but there is parking across herded road at a park for free.
This is one of my favorite trails to do a quick speedy bike ride or run. Very private usually only a handful of people walking. Connects to The botanical gardens trails at the end. Very smooth trail and lots of curves
Views were great and path was a moderate winding trail with slight uphill/downhill points. Few wooden bridges that could create traction issues, but to finish at the Botanical gardens on a shaded path along a quite road is the perfect way to start mornings!
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