MIDLAND, Mich. (Michigan Back Roads) – When we get a break from bitter cold weather it’s nice to know where you can find a gentle trail to help cure that winter cabin fever. It’s also nice if that trail is easy to get to and is accessible to everyone. The Arbury Trail at the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland is just such a trail.

The Chippewa Nature Center in Midland, Michigan has more than 15 miles of trails that are free and open to the public. A special trail at the nature center is the Arbury Trail. It is a paved loop of less than half a mile and is ideal for nature lovers of limited mobility. You can actually enter the trail directly from the parking lot. Along this easy walking pathway are four different ecosystems under management. Included on this fun little hike is an overlook of the Pine River. There are few “special use” trails that are as enjoyable as this one. At the conclusion of the loop, you are right back at the parking area and can go on your way or take a few minutes and tour the beautiful visitors center.

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There are several other trails at the nature center. All of them take the hiker through different and diverse habitats. Among the trails available there is the “Chippewa Trail” that runs from the nature center, through the forests and wetlands for 3.5 miles to the “Tridge” in downtown Midland. There is the “River Trail” that follows the course of the river and is also groomed for cross country skiing. The “Wetlands Trail” is a couple of minutes from the nature center. It is about a mile and a half long and covers all the nature center wetland types. The boardwalks and docks make for an easy and dry walk through the wetlands.

On all of these trail’s wildlife abounds. Since there is a river and wetlands, water loving species like kingfishers, pileated woodpeckers, wood ducks, and warblers are here along with the eagles and hawks. In addition to the birds, observant hikers may see river otters and mink.