88 Sarett Nature Center 
wildlife viewing | directions and facility information
The bright red cardinal flower is usually found
along streams and other wet areas.
Photo: © Ray Rustem
Nearly five miles of trails, including boardwalks and
observation platforms, meander through this unique, 500-acre nature
center. One of the trails is barrier free. Trails that run atop the Paw Paw River bluffs provide great views
of the river valley below, and boardwalks down in the floodplain give an
up-close look at wetland habitats and wildlife—all without getting your
feet wet. This site also contains a unique alkaline wetland called a fen.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Wildflower and butterfly viewing is
wonderful at Sarett.
Photo: David Kenyon, MI DNR
Bird viewing is excellent along all of the trails. The trail
system begins at the visitor center. Be sure to stop at the visitor
center to pick up a trail map and look out the viewing windows. These
windows offer a panoramic view of wetlands and forest in the river bottom
below. A complex of feeders at the windows attracts numerous songbirds
and small mammals year-round. As many as 20 male cardinals have been seen
here at one time! Wildflower viewing at Sarett
is spectacular. Walk the Gentian Loop Trail in August and September to
see fringed gentians, turtle heads, pitcher plants, and cardinal flowers.
Try the Waxwing Loop Trail in May for spring wildflower viewing. During
fall migration, sit in the West
Marsh Tower
at dusk to view large concentrations of wood ducks and other waterfowl.
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