Join us for free, guided nature walks

Matthaei Botanical Gardens is hosting free guided nature walks on select Wednesdays and Sundays.  These walks are FREE, no registration is required. Wonder Walks are designed for all ages to inspire curiosity and learning from each other through activities that model curiosity and honor nature. If we have a sizeable mixed-age group, we may separate into two sets to offer the same content at different levels of engagement.

Wednesday walks begin at 5:30 pm.  Sunday walks begin at 1:00 pm. We recommend gathering inside the lobby of Matthaei Botanical Gardens about 10 minutes before the start.

July

July Wonder Walks invite you to explore nature through art, ecology, and stories. ​​​​​​​

Wednesday, July 9: Nature's Palette  Guided by an experienced naturalist and artist, the group will pause at various points to discuss the interplay of light and shadow, the subtle differences in leaf textures, and the reflections of water. Each participant receives a watercolor kit, enabling them to capture their personal interpretations of the scenery on paper. The session aims to spark creativity and appreciation for the beauty around us, regardless of artistic skill level, making it an inclusive and enriching experience for families, individuals, and art enthusiasts alike. Concluding with a sharing circle, participants can showcase their watercolor creations, fostering a sense of community and shared inspiration.

Sunday, July 13: Hidden Habitat  Walk with Natural Areas staff through rich and diverse ecosystems that host the elusive Massasauga rattlesnake, a species delicately balanced between survival and vulnerability.  Learn about the intricate life history of the Massasauga, including its unique adaptations and its vital role in the ecosystem. Our guided walk emphasizes the importance of habitat protection and stewardship, offering insights into conservation efforts aimed at preserving these fragile environments. Closed-toe shoes are required.  

Wednesday, July 16: Lives of Local Snakes  Join us for a fascinating guided walk to learn about snakes native to Southeast Michigan, hosted by researchers with the Davis-Rabosky Herpetology Lab.  Guides will share insights into the life histories of these often-misunderstood creatures, highlighting their unique adaptations and survival strategies. Learn about their preferred diets and the vital ecological roles they play in maintaining balanced ecosystems. Come away with an understanding of the importance of snake conservation and protection, shedding light on the challenges they face in the modern world. 

Sunday, July 20: Nature's Secret Conversations  Discover how vibrant flower colors attract specific pollinators, while subtle scent trails act as invitations to bees and butterflies. Learn how insects use visual and chemical signals to find food, sites for egg laying, and to detect threats. 

Wednesday, July 23: Nature's Secret Conversations  Discover how vibrant flower colors attract specific pollinators, while subtle scent trails act as invitations to bees and butterflies. Learn how insects use visual and chemical signals to find food, sites for egg laying, and to detect threats.