A Walk in the Woods

We went for a walk in the woods today. This summer was brutally hot, and my husband had knee replacement therapy, so we are just now getting to enjoy walking again.

We went to Stage Nature Center in Troy, Michigan, just a few miles away. I had never been there before but had seen photographs my brother shared from his walks there.

The nature center has 100 acres and includes an educational center.

The nature trails are nearly two miles long and go through deep, dark wooded areas filled with deer and birds, a marshy area, a pond, and meadows.

The woods are left quite natural, with fallen trees left in place. Michigan wildflowers are protected from the deer with cages over them.

There are sugar maples which are tapped to make maple syrup every year, which is sold in the visitor's center.

The Rouge River flows through the nature center. This is the same river that goes through Detroit. The Rouge watershed draws from the densely populated and urbanized area of Southeast Michigan.

We were told there are thirteen deer in the park. We saw at least four sets of doe and fawn. They are alert but used to people and don't run off.

The trails vary from mulched paths to dirt paths riddled with tree roots to wood walkways over the marsh. The most difficult part of the trail was the Fox Trail which had an uphill climb with steps to reach the top of the ravine...and of course then one must come down again!

I noted several quilts in the nature center. This tree quilt with an owl is a fundraiser silent auction.

 This owl quilt is a temporary loan.

The visitor's center has a library, display cases, and several interactive areas for children. Educational activities for all ages are offered.

I look forward to returning to see the woods in other seasons.