Parker Mill Park

So the move into the new apartment is now official and we thought what better way to get to know the area than a quick hike. I spotted the perfect place while on my way home from work for such a hike.

The name of the small trail system in Parker Mill Park. It is part of the Washtenaw County Parks Dept, and it is immaculately kept. It also happens to be a short distance from where we are.

There are various different paths that span both sides of the road, and even a walking bridge that crosses the Huron River.

The North part of the park is home to a trail that is approximately 3 miles in length that loops back to the road. However we were not able to make that loop as a very large fallen tree was blocking our path.

 This side of the park also has a little arbor, visible in the back right of the photo above. The coolest part about it is that the roof is covered with native Michigan plant life! This helps to lessen the burden felt by the the Huron River in times of heavy rain.

When leaving the northern area of the park guests are offered a nice view of a small tributary that will eventually feed into the Huron River.

The southern side of the park has a visitor's center and a few plaques that explain the history of the park. This great sprawling tree was my personal focal point for the park.

From here we took what we thought would be a short path to a little marsh and back. However it turned out to be an above average trip into a mini-clime within the metropolis!

It all started with the walking path heading under a working train bridge! The stonework gave a feeling of older times in a place not like this.

This is proof that Chelsea will do anything to get those amazing photos of hers over at http://www.cinemadventures.blogspot.com/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/cbromley Check them out!

We both agree that it would be splendid to see a train zoom over this!

Nearing the end of trail there is a true testament to the engineering of man; a wide bridge that spans the Huron River ON A DIAGONAL! When crossing it it feels like the bridge is going to give way underneath you due to the engineering of it, especially when someone runs by you.

It is a great bridge, but be careful, I hear that it is:

Had such a great time that we just may have to go back this weekend!

Let me know what you think!

-J