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Michigan dnr > wildlife viewing guide > southern lower peninsula > Woldumar Nature Center

101 Woldumar Nature Center Southern Lower Peninsula

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

Nature Center
Photo: © Woldumar Nature Center

Woldumar Nature Center is situated on 188 acres of diverse wildlife habitat along the banks of the Grand River. Over 5 miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails take visitors through fields, wetlands, pine and maple-beech forests, old apple orchards and a prairie. Located just minutes from downtown Lansing, Woldumar is a natural oasis and a perfect setting for peaceful observation and reflection. Woldumar carries a unique property history; it was once a dairy farm, and still utilizes old farm buildings (dairy barn, tractor barn, caretaker's cottage, etc.). An authentic 1860's log cabin was moved to the property in 1980 is the focal point for the biggest annual event, The American Heritage Festival, which runs the last full weekend in September. Other educational programs for all ages are available throughout the year.

 Wildlife Viewing

Trail
Photo: © Woldumar Nature Center

Woldumar abounds with local wildlife! White-tailed deer are plentiful, especially in the fall season. Tracks indicating the presence of fox and coyote can be found throughout the year and both beaver and muskrat can be spotted near riverbanks and wetland areas. A variety of turtles and frogs can be found at several wetland locations throughout the property and nearly 150 different kinds of birds can be identified at different points during the year. Ducks, geese and heron are also commonly seen. Early spring is exceptional for wildflowers, especially in the Maple-Beech forests. Stop in at the Visitors Center for trail maps, educational displays and other materials.

Directions

From I-96 in Lansing, take Exit 98B and turn north onto Lansing Road. Proceed about 3 miles and bear right onto Old Lansing Road. Look for signs at site entrance. From I-496W take Lansing Road Exit and follow to Waverly Road. Turn left on Waverly and follow to the next light at Old Lansing Road. Turn right on Old Lansing and look for on the left.

Ownership: Woldumar Nature Association (517) 322-0030

Size: 188 acres

Closest Town: Lansing

Weather and Driving Directions for Lansing

Plan Your Trip with Ideas from Michigan.gov!

Facilities and Opportunities

3 restrooms Over 5 miles, easy to moderate. Open every day, dawn to dusk. Visitors Center Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cross-country Skiing Most trails open to skiing. Most easy, some moderate, few difficult (hilly) Drinking water Located in Visitors Center. Barrier-free Trails are wood-chipped. All buildings are handicap accessible. Entry fee - $1 trail fee donation
Rental equipment is not available.

Additional information:
Woldumar web site
E-mail: lori@woldumar.org

 

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