Lenawee County: Lakes, Gardens and Trails

Glaciers shaped Gerber Hill Park, leaving behind a sandy base. This geological feature is part of a much larger waterscape: Lenawee County has more than 50 inland lakes, where you can swim, fish and enjoy water sports. The county’s public inland lakes cover more than 4,300 acres. Water and nature thus offer a range of options to consider when planning your trip.

Lakes, Shorelines and Water Activities

Lake Hudson is a man-made lake covering 502 acres. The Lake Hudson Recreation Area surrounds the lake, where wake-making is prohibited, and offers boat access and a 1.5-mile trail. Fish species in Lake Hudson include muskie, largemouth bass, crappie and walleye. At Iron Lake, Iron Lake Park offers fishing and a gravel boat ramp. The two parks feature water in different ways: Iron Lake has a specific access point for boats, while the information about Lake Hudson also includes a trail along the lake.

Botanical Gardens and Trails

Hidden Lake Gardens is a 755-acre botanical garden operated by Michigan State University. Amenities include 12 miles of hiking trails, a conservatory, an arboretum, a bonsai garden and a canopy walk. The history of the site is closely tied to its present-day focus: it was founded in 1926 and transferred to Michigan State University in 1945. Here, botanical displays and hiking opportunities come together in one place.

The different trail distances can help you plan your time outdoors. The Lake Hudson Recreation Area has a 1.5-mile trail, while Hidden Lake Gardens offers 12 miles of hiking trails. The Kiwanis Trail, by contrast, is a 9.4-mile point-to-point route with its start and end near Adrian; it is suitable for hiking, road biking and running. These descriptions cover different formats: a trail in a recreation area, hiking trails in a botanical garden and a point-to-point route. You can use the stated distances and activities to guide your choice.

Local History and Seasonal Destinations

The Tecumseh Historical Museum presents changing exhibits about the region’s past. Visitors interested in local history will find a different focus here than at the nature and garden attractions. The Walker Tavern Farm and Craft Market runs on Sundays from mid-May through the end of September. Because the market operates only during this seasonal window, it is a good idea to check the dates before visiting.

Motorsports, Wine and Transportation

Michigan International Speedway covers more than 1,400 acres and features a two-mile oval. For a very different kind of outing, the River Raisin Wine Trail connects four wineries. Transportation for wine tours and self-guided fall color routes is available through Visit Lenawee partners. Visit Lenawee’s transportation partners provide well-maintained vehicles on demand, and their drivers are experienced and familiar with the region. When choosing activities for your stay, you can focus on a range of options, from nature trails and garden visits to local history, a seasonal market, motorsports and wine.

Discover more destinations: Tecumseh, Adrian, Alpena County, Presque Isle County, Benzie County, Livingston, Schoolcraft County, Clare County.

View the main travel guide: Michigan.