Get Outside: Kalamazoo Nature Center Trails Are Open and Free

More than 10 miles of trails that wind through woods, wetlands and prairies are open to the public right now without a Kalamazoo Nature Center membership. 

We've been told since the beginning of "lock down" that getting outdoors and getting exercise are good for us. Kalamazoo Nature Center is making that easier by allowing free access to their extensive trail system for non-members Tuesdays through Saturdays in May. The pathways are reserved for KNC supporters and members on Sundays and Mondays. Of course, social distancing is mandatory and capacity will be limited for everyone's safety. There are 16 routes ranging from a .2 mile amble along River Walk to the 2.7 mile trek along the difficult terrain of the Bluebird Trail. Get a complete map of the trail system here.

Ten footpaths originate from the Kalamazoo Nature Center at 7000 N Westnedge Ave.

1. Prairie Pathway Loops | .7 mile or .5 mile | Easy
2. Arboretum Loop | .5 mile | Easy
3. Fern Valley | .8 mile | Difficult
4. Ridge Run | .7 mile | Moderate
5. Habitat Haven | .7 mile | Easy
6. Beech Maple | .7 mile | Moderate
7. River Walk | .2 mile | Easy
8. Cooper's Overlook | .2 mile | Moderate
9. Raptor Ridge | .4 mile | Difficult
10. Bluebird Trail | 2.7 miles | Difficult

The DeLano Farms Trailhead is at 555 West E Ave and has 6 more routes

1. Pioneer Woods | .5 miles | Moderate
2. Wilderness Trail | .2 miles | Easy
3. Source Pond | .9 miles | Moderate
4. Green Heron Ravine | .5 miles | Moderate
5. Trout Run | .8 miles | Moderate
6. Headwaters Trail 1 mile | Difficult

Please keep in mind, "KNC’s Visitor Center will remain closed, as well as DeLano Farms, Nature’s Playground, Arboretum Picnic Area, and all drinking fountains. On-site portable restrooms are not maintained by KNC and discretion is advised."