Cherry Hill Nature Preserve

The Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is a 160-acre public space in Superior Township, Michigan, offering a diverse landscape for recreation and nature observation. Featuring rolling hills, wetlands, meadows, and wooded areas, the preserve provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife and a tranquil escape for visitors. Originally part of a larger agricultural area, the land has transitioned into a valued natural resource for the community.

History

The area encompassing the present-day Cherry Hill Nature Preserve has a history rooted in agriculture, evolving over time into a suburban landscape. Originally part of Camden County, the region was formally incorporated in 1929. However, the more immediate history of the land is tied to the Rankin family. From 1884 through 1963, Cherry Hill was the home of Catherine Putman Rankin and her family, where she cultivated a refined lifestyle. While the historical Cherry Hill referenced in this source is a separate entity – a historic house and grounds – it shares the same geographical name and likely influenced the area’s identity.

The transition of the land into a nature preserve reflects a growing commitment to conservation and public access to natural spaces. Superior Township now owns the 160 acres and maintains it as a public resource. The creation of walking paths indicates a deliberate effort to allow visitors to experience the preserve’s natural beauty. The preserve’s establishment represents a shift from private ownership and agricultural use to a publicly accessible natural area, preserving a piece of the region’s ecological heritage.

Geography

The Cherry Hill Nature Preserve encompasses 160 acres of varied terrain . This diversity includes rolling hills, providing varied elevation and scenic views. Wetlands are a significant component of the preserve, contributing to its ecological richness and providing habitat for specialized plant and animal species. A portion of Fleming Creek flows through the preserve, adding to the aquatic ecosystem and influencing the landscape’s hydrology.

In addition to the hills, wetlands, and creek, the preserve features meadow and wooded areas. The presence of these different habitats supports a diverse wildlife population. The preserve is approximately one-half mile square, suggesting a relatively compact but ecologically significant area. The combination of these geographical features makes the Cherry Hill Nature Preserve a valuable natural space within Superior Township and the broader region.

Attractions

The primary attraction of the Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is its natural environment, offering opportunities for recreation and nature observation. A 1.6-mile loop trail provides a designated path for hiking and exploring the preserve’s diverse terrain. This trail allows visitors to experience the rolling hills, wetlands, meadows, and wooded areas within the preserve. The presence of walking paths, specifically noted with a trail map available at the main entrance, encourages exploration and engagement with the natural surroundings.

The preserve’s diverse wildlife population is another key attraction. The area is home to a resident owl population, as well as various wetland bird species, including warblers and bluebirds. Birdwatching is a popular activity, and the preserve provides a habitat for a variety of species. While not explicitly listed as attractions, the surrounding area offers a range of additional activities, including hiking trails, parks, gardens, fishing, and golf, as highlighted by resources listing things to do in the region.

Getting There

The Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is located at 6375 Cherry Hill Rd, Superior Township, MI 48198. Directions from the Superior Township Hall (3040 N. Prospect Rd.) involve turning left (south) onto Prospect Rd. for 360 feet, then turning right (west) onto Cherry Hill Rd. for 1.6 miles. The preserve is located on the right (north) side of Cherry Hill Road.

While specific public transportation options directly to the preserve are not detailed in the available sources, the surrounding area is accessible by regional transportation networks. The nearby city of Ypsilanti offers a range of amenities and services, and resources like Ypsi Real provide information on getting to and around the area. Visitors traveling from further distances may find it convenient to utilize major roadways and highways to reach Superior Township and the Cherry Hill Nature Preserve.

See Also

Superior Township, Michigan Fleming Creek Ypsilanti, Michigan