Nature In Bloom: Rochester Hills Hosts Discovery Hikes

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI — Spring has finally sprung and it’s time for the eighth annual Discovery Hike in Rochester Hills. The event takes residents on guided tours through the 27-acre Harding Greenspace along the Clinton River Trail. The hikes take place 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 5 and they are hosted by The Rochester Hills Green Space Advisory Board. They are free and open to the public.

This family fun hike is a great educational opportunity for adults and children of all ages, according to organizers. Rather than just a walk through the woods, information stations will be available for hikers to learn about plants, animals, ecology, and the history of the city-owned open spaces.

"This hike is the perfect opportunity for families to explore all of the beautiful green spaces Rochester Hills has to offer,” said Mayor Bryan K. Barnett. “Thanks to the support of our residents, these spaces will be preserved and protected for generations to come.”

The Harding Greenspace consists of 27 acres of upland woods, rolling fields and forested wetlands. Thanks to the Green Space Fund, the featured land will be protected, maintained, and restored in perpetuity.

Hike leaders will also share the history of the land and how these properties influence the health of the Clinton River. Niswander Environmental will be on hand to provide a live stewardship demonstration and present the brand new Monarch Butterfly waystation located on the property.

Those interested in attending can begin the hike in the parking lot north of the medical offices at 950 W Avon Rd. Park on the northeast side of the offices and check in at the registration tent. As an added bonus, participants can test their keen observation skills by competing in the “I Spy” Nature Challenge. Maps and fun giveaways will be raffled off during the event.

For more information, contact the Parks & Forestry Department at 248.656.4673 or parks@rochesterhills.org.

Photo courtesy City of Rochester Hills

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