This is a cheerful 245-page guide from the same folks who gave us publications such as "Canoeing Michigan Rivers" and "A Guide to 199 Michigan Waterfalls." It is designed to assist birdwatchers, cross-country skiers, hikers, campers and other nature lovers in their search for Michigan's flora and fauna, or a quiet place to picnic. The book is a little too large for your glove compartment, but you'll still want to store a copy in your car for those weekend outings, or for an hour's walk in green and peaceful surroundings."Natural Michigan" doesn't list state or national parks (see author's "Michigan State and National Parks: A Complete Guide"), just the smaller Michigan beauty spots that might go undiscovered by all but the nearest residents. It includes nature centers, sanctuaries, game areas, arboretums, and even a wastewater treatment area. Both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas are covered.
Each of the 228 attractions is described in terms of its most unique or eye-catching features such as this depiction of the St. Clair Woods Nature Sanctuary near Port Huron: "The area also hosts ferns, shrubs, and wildflowers, including three different types of trilliums..." I've lived in Michigan all of my life and only knew of two types of trilliums. If these spring flowers happen to be your favorites, also check out the Trillium Trail Nature Preserve near Memphis, or the Trillium Ravine Plant Preserve near Niles.
If you prefer a dollop of history along with the wonders of nature, try the Besser Natural Area near Alpena: "Nearly a mile of wild, undeveloped Lake Huron shoreline, a ghost town, [and] a sunken ship in a small lagoon...are attractions to this 137-acre preserve."
A map, directions, fees (if any), schedule, and prominent feature symbols are included with each area's description. The only omission that might have proved useful is a cross-reference by prominent feature, such as ski trails.
