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Camper
Perspectives
Anglers
Your rod and reel will come in handy if you’re in the area in the late summer or fall. The Grand River section between Lansing and the Fitzgerald Dam is best known for catching trout with a fly rod. This same river offers smallmouth bass and catfish during the summer months as well.
Not far away is the Huron River, one of the best streams for smallmouth bass fishing and a National Water Trail. Again, a fly-fishing rod is the way to go if you have a small paddleboat. For shore fishing, head to Dexter-Huton Metropark, which is just shy of eight miles north
of maize-and-blue Ann Arbor. The Huron River travels through this area, offering plenty of openings from the bank from which to cast a line.
Flora and Fauna
The Arb – the Nichols Arboretum – on the campus of the University of Michigan is 123 acres of nature situated in the heart of the bustling college town of Ann Arbor. One of the highlights is the peony garden, which has 929 individual plants including tree peonies. There are also 3.5 miles of trails through the Arb, with the Peony Trail being just one of them. Another favorite and close to the peonies is the Riverfront Trail, a loop with an overlook and a landing on the bank of the Huron River. You’ll pass the Appalachian plant collection at Heathdale.
The garden is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. There are multiple entrances and parking options depending on where you want to go first. Only walkers are allowed, and dogs can come along if they are on a leash. Visit mbgna.umich.edu/nichols-arboretum.
Young Brood
What kid doesn’t like a zoo? Everyone seems to have a fascination with animals and naturally wants to view wildlife. Open year-round, though hours change seasonally, Potter Park Zoo near the capital city of Lansing (potterparkzoo.org) is spread over 20 acres and is home to more than 160 species. From wolves and red pandas to penguins and anteaters, you can take your time observing the animals and learning about them. You can also visit the Backyard Garden near the duck pond that also connects to a peaceful river stroll. There’s a large picnic area, too, and sitting benches around the zoo if you want to stop for a snack (bring your own as food is not available for purchase currently). Purchase tickets ahead of time online for a specific date and time, which helps get the clan inside more swiftly so that you can all start exploring!
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