Hidden Lake Gardens in the Irish Hills of Michigan

My husband and I often take day trips and one destination that we have enjoyed over the years is getting away to Hidden Lake Gardens. It’s a nature lover's paradise with 10 miles of beautiful hiking trails, and definitely worth the trip as there’s so much to see and do. 

Located in the Irish Hills of Michigan, (Tipton, Michigan), Harry Fee's former nursery garden was bequeathed to the Michigan State University and is run as a botanic garden. You’ll find 755 acres of plants (arboretum and botanical garden), including three prominent collections.

The Benedict Hosta Collection, also known as Hosta Hillside, is located on the site of the original rock garden built in the 1940s by Mr. Fee. I love this area as it contains over 800 varieties and is often cooler as it rests in the shade.

The McCready Bonsai Courtyard has an attractive collection of Bonsai. I've always been drawn to the Thuja Occidentalis, or Northern White Cedar (Arborvitae). This area also contains the conservatory which is filled with abundant loveliness. It has a Temperate House, a Tropical Dome and an Arid Dome.  You'll want to stop in here to take in the amazing aromas. Each is alive with a variety of colorful plants like coleus,  passion flower, orchids, coffee plants, lemon trees, cacti, and succulents in differing shades of color. 

One of the things I love about spending time traveling through Michigan is the evergreens and conifers and the Harper Collection is breathtaking. It has a variety of Dwarf and some extremely rare varieties of Conifers. 

Leashed pets are permitted but must not enter garden areas or conservatory. They must remain on paths, trails, lawns, or paved roads and walks. Our dogs and we enjoy meandering the hills and curves along the road and marked trails. Here, we are able to pause, and look out over the landscape and see the lake, picnic area, pond, and rock walls. 

Yes, there are definitely many beautiful vistas. Among them are a collection of ornamental and fruit-bearing trees and evergreens.

The last time we visited was around Halloween and they had scarecrows sitting on benches along Hidden Lake. Our dog Monroe briefly paused to sniff one to make sure it wasn't real. 

If you’re not into hiking that is ok as there are scenic drives around the grounds.

Make sure when you are in the area to check out their gift shop. In addition to a lovely collection of nature books, they have artwork, puzzles and children’s toys.  

If you are interested in photographing while on the premises check out the rules. The use of drones (unmanned aerial systems) is prohibited.

You can find the trail map here.