Two Northfield preserves protect 351 acres of woods and old fields
Northfield Woods and Arbor Woods combine 351 acres of forest, vernal ponds, farmland, and former fields being restored to grassland and wetlands.
East of Whitmore Lake, two county preserves meet in one 351-acre landscape. Northfield Woods and Arbor Woods were established in 2009 through Washtenaw County’s natural-areas program. Together they hold 1.9 miles of natural-ground trail, but this is more than a patch of mature forest.
The county describes a high-quality woodlot, forested wetlands, and many vernal ponds. Those shallow seasonal pools are important breeding habitat for frogs, salamanders, and other amphibians because they often dry before fish can take over. Ferns and wild geraniums grow through much of the woods, and a large stand of shagbark hickory rises near the northeast edge.
The farm history is still visible. About 10 acres remain active farmland, while former fields are changing into woods or being restored to grasslands and wetlands. A walk can move from open ground into wet forest without leaving the preserve system.
This is a nature preserve, not a manicured recreation park. The trails are unimproved, and conditions can be muddy around the wetlands. Washtenaw County lists parking and dawn-to-dusk access.
Where to see it
The preserve entrance is at 150 East Northfield Church Road near Whitmore Lake; Washtenaw County lists dawn-to-dusk hours.
Sources
Last reviewed against the listed sources: July 12, 2026.