Have you ever wondered what that flower is, or what kind of bee just landed on it? Noticing what lives around you is the first small step toward understanding it. This approach helps researchers track the health of whole ecosystems at MBGNA and throughout Michigan's unique ecosystems. Making these observations can also be a free and fun solo, group, or family activity! We’ll use iNaturalist,  a free app that lets you photograph and identify the plants, animals, and fungi you find, learn about them, and contribute your observations to a global community science effort. Join iNaturalist Ambassador, MBGNA Education team intern, and EEB major Austin Melancon for an introduction to the app and a walk to put your new skill to work. Whatever kind of organism catches your eye! Bring your smartphone with the free iNaturalist app installed, or get help downloading it.  Those without a smartphone are welcome to share with MBGNA staff to see how iNaturalist is used.

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Matthaei Botanical Gardens hosts free guided Wonder Walks on select Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the season, with occasional additional walks and special-topic programs offered on other days. Walk themes, times, and formats may vary.

Wonder Walks are designed for all ages to inspire curiosity and learning from each other through activities that encourage observation, exploration, and connection with nature. If we have a sizeable mixed-age group, we may split into two groups to deliver the same content at different engagement levels.

Wednesday walks begin at 5:00 pm. Sunday walks begin at 1:00 pm unless otherwise noted. We recommend gathering in the lobby at Matthaei Botanical Gardens about 10 minutes before the start.