Barton Nature Area | Ann Arbor

Barton Nature Area is a sprawling natural preserve located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, encompassing approximately 98 acres along the scenic Huron River. This area serves as a vital green space in close proximity to the city’s urban center, offering a mix of recreational, ecological, and educational experiences. Managed by the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Department, Barton Nature Area is highly valued for its diverse habitats and accessibility to outdoor activities.

Ecological and Environmental Features

Barton Nature Area is characterized by a rich mosaic of ecosystems that support an abundance of native flora and fauna. The landscape includes:

Mesic forests: These moderately moist woodlands are home to mature trees like oaks, maples, and hickories, providing habitat for birds, squirrels, and other woodland creatures.

Wet meadows and marshes: These wetter zones near the river attract amphibians, waterfowl, and various aquatic plants, enhancing biodiversity.

Shrublands and old fields: Transitional zones that support butterflies, small mammals, and a wide variety of wildflowers.

Emergent marsh areas: These shallow water sections foster aquatic plants and provide spawning grounds for fish and habitat for water insects.

Between 1994 and 2001, a comprehensive botanical survey recorded 324 plant species within the area, with 242 identified as native, underscoring the park’s ecological importance.

Trail System and Exploration

The park features a network of well-maintained, mostly flat trails suitable for hiking, jogging, and casual walking. The main trail is a half-mile loop that connects two pedestrian bridges spanning the Huron River, offering scenic views and access to different parts of the preserve.

Barton Oxbow: A notable natural feature within the park, this U-shaped meander of the river is a quiet, sheltered area rich in wildlife and a favorite spot for nature observation.

Side trails: Branching off from the main loop, these smaller paths delve deeper into various habitats, ideal for birdwatchers and photographers.

The trail surfaces consist primarily of crushed limestone, providing a firm footing suitable for most visitors, including families and casual walkers.

Recreational Activities

Barton Nature Area caters to a variety of outdoor activities that engage visitors of all ages and interests:

Hiking and Birdwatching: The diverse habitats attract numerous bird species throughout the year, including migratory songbirds and waterfowl. The quiet trails make the area a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Fishing: Both the Huron River and the adjacent Barton Pond provide opportunities for fishing. However, anglers should be aware of current advisories, including a “Do Not Eat Fish” warning due to PFAS contamination in the water, though catch-and-release fishing is still common.

Boating and Paddling: The park is part of the larger Huron River Water Trail, an extensive paddling route extending through several parks and natural areas. Canoe and kayak launches are conveniently located near the Barton Dam. A portage slide allows paddlers to bypass the dam safely. For those without their own equipment, nearby liveries, such as the Gallup Canoe Livery, offer rentals and shuttle services for popular river trips between Barton and Gallup Parks.

Picnicking: Near the main entrance, there is a designated picnic area equipped with tables and grills, providing a comfortable space for families and groups to enjoy meals surrounded by nature.

Recent Developments and Enhancements

In 2024, Barton Nature Area saw significant improvements with the completion of a new segment of the Border-to-Border Trail (B2B), a regional multi-use trail that connects parks and natural areas throughout Washtenaw County.

This new paved trail section is approximately 0.6 miles long and runs through Barton Nature Area, enhancing accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners.

Plans include the construction of a pedestrian tunnel beneath the railroad tracks connecting Barton Nature Area to Bandemer Park on the opposite side of the river. This tunnel, scheduled for completion soon, will greatly improve connectivity and safety for trail users.

The park also now features the Great Oak Nature Playground, created from a 150-year-old white oak tree. This natural play area offers children a unique environment to interact with nature through climbing, balancing, and imaginative play.

Access and Visitor Information

Main Entrance: The primary access point is at 1010 W. Huron River Drive, near Bird Road. This entrance offers parking, restrooms, and direct access to trails and picnic areas.

Alternate Trailhead: A secondary access is located further east along Huron River Drive near M-14 and Main Street, with more limited parking.

Operating Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. to provide ample time for visitors to enjoy the area during daylight.

Amenities: Visitors benefit from picnic tables, charcoal grills, portable restrooms during busy seasons, parking spaces, trash disposal, and clear trail signage.

Conservation and Community Role

Barton Nature Area serves not only as a recreational destination but also as a living classroom and a critical component of Ann Arbor’s urban ecology. The park supports environmental education programs and local conservation efforts aimed at preserving native species and habitats. It also acts as a natural buffer, helping to improve water quality in the Huron River by filtering runoff and supporting biodiversity in an increasingly developed region.

The balance between recreational use and ecological preservation is carefully managed to maintain the area's natural beauty and sustainability for future generations.

Summary

Barton Nature Area stands out as a vital, accessible natural oasis just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor. Its combination of rich ecological diversity, recreational amenities, and ongoing improvements makes it an ideal spot for hiking, paddling, wildlife observation, and family outings. The park’s integration into the broader Border-to-Border Trail system ensures that it remains a key node in the region’s network of green spaces, promoting outdoor activity, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.