Trinity Health Ann Arbor Campus Natural Areas
A Hospital Without Walls - Nature Trails
Recognizing the vital link between health and natural spaces, Trinity Health Ann Arbor aims to preserve the beautiful natural areas of its 340-acre hospital campus and ensure accessibility to foster health and well-being for community members, staff, providers and patients.
Whether it’s a short walk, a quiet moment of reflection or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the outdoors, time in nature supports health and wellbeing. Our campus trails and natural areas are here for you to explore, unwind and reconnect.
The Trinity Health Ann Arbor Natural Areas
The Trinity Health Ann Arbor Natural Areas includes 2.5 miles of walking paths that connect to the Border-to-Border trail and weave through natural habitats like mature forests, wetlands and the ecologically significant Shanghai prairie. Parking is available close to the trailheads.
Join Us
Maintenance and restoration of the campus natural areas and trails cannot happen without the generous support from donors and volunteers. We invite you to join us on our restoration journey!
SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEERThe Natural Areas Restoration Project
Our natural area restoration project reflects a deep commitment to caring for both people and the environment. By revitalizing these natural areas and ensuring they are inclusive and accessible, we are creating opportunities for stress relief, renewal and connection for patients, staff and the broader community.
Thanks to a grant from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, with funding support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, the Erb Family Foundation, the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation and Cleveland-Cliffs, the natural areas and its trail system are being improved to be more navigable for visitors. By the end of 2026, the trails throughout the area will be well-marked and boardwalks and staircases will connect the upland trails to the prairie and wetlands.
The Benefits of Being in Nature
A growing body of research shows that spending time in nature can have meaningful benefits for health and well-being, including:
- Improved mood
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Relief from information overload and mental fatigue
- Improved focus and creativity
- A greater sense of connection, energy, and vitality
Campus Recreation: Where to Park and How to Get to the Natural Areas
Trinity Health Ann Arbor is committed to improving existing site facilities and access across campus so that every member of the community, especially children and the elderly, can enjoy the benefits of the hospital’s dedicated green spaces and recreation amenities.
St. Joe's Park - This six-acre park has two picnic pavilions and restrooms that can be open for events and volunteer workdays. The lawn area is in reasonably good shape, and the turfgrass is mowed regularly. This open space is well-suited for open play. Visitors can park in the lot closest to the park.
