In Your Own Backyard: Nature and Trails

Residents will enjoy exploring thousands of acres of nature preserves and parks, plus trail systems and natural waterways in the area, a top reason to live in Ypsilanti! Check out these serene views right in your own backyard.  

Scenery along the Border-to-Border Trail 
Stop for the scenery on the county-wide Border to Border Trail and learn about the surrounding nature. This view overlooks Ford Lake. 

Border-to-Border Trail Sign overlooking Ford Lake Park

Frog Island Park Ampitheatre 
This park hosts outdoor movies, concerts, community sports, and special events throughout the year. A self-service kayak launch can be found at the north end of the park and is located along the Huron River Water Trail.

Frog Island Park

Riverside Park 
Catch annual events like car shows and summer Jazz Festivals at Riverside Park. This location is also perfect for lunch outdoors. Pictured is the famous ‘tridge’, connecting three trails over the Huron River.

Riverside Park, Ypsilanti Tridge over the Huron River

Riverside Arts Center Plaza
Around the corner from the city’s art center is an eye-catching plaza guiding folks to a staircase leading down to Riverside Park. This area is maintained by volunteers from various community organizations.

Riverside Arts Center Plaza

Ford Lake
Ford lake is a great place for boating, fishing, and relaxing near the lake. This view is from North Bay Park. More scenic areas include Ford Lake Park, complete basketball and tennis courts and kayak launch, and hosts the annual John E Lawrence Summer Jazz Festival. More parks with lake views include Loon Feather Point Park and South Hydro Park.

Views of Ford Lake from North Bay Park

Waterworks Park  
Invite the family for a nature stroll on paved pathways along the Huron River on the Water Street Trail. This park is just across the street from Riverside Park.  

Waterworks park trail & Huron River

Rolling Hills County Park
Make no mistake about this secluded county park! This popular location stretches across 439 acres and is home to a giant water park, disc golf courses, miles of paved trails, and the best winter sledding hill. Check it out for yourself! Park admission $6; Water Park: $11

Entrance to Rolling HIlls County Park

Expect to enjoy many more outdoor opportunities in your own backyard while living in Ypsi. Click here to view available Ypsilanti properties, or contact us today!