88 Sarett Nature Center 

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

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

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.