- Attraction: For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum
- Location: 2142 N Genesee Rd, Burton, MI 48509
- Industry: Nature Preserve
- Website: https://geneseecountyparks.org/for-mar-nature-preserve-arboretum-2/
When you step into what was once Forbes and Martha Merkley’s dairy farm, you’ll discover something far more extraordinary than typical pastureland. For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum has been enchanting visitors since 1970, transforming 383 picturesque acres into a nature lover’s paradise that combines education with pure wonder.
The preserve gets its charming name from the original donors – FORbes and MARtha Merkley – whose generous gift to Genesee County created this incredible outdoor sanctuary.
The 116-acre arboretum alone houses over 1,800 woody specimens representing 157 different species, earning Level II Accreditation by ArbNet. But what truly sets For-Mar apart is its famous barrier-free treehouse, designed by Pete Nelson of “Treehouse Masters” fame and home to Nature’s Superheroes called “The Preservers.”
The Star Attractions Everyone Talks About
The TV-Famous Treehouse: This isn’t just any treehouse – it’s a custom-built marvel that was featured on Animal Planet’s “Treehouse Masters” and has welcomed over 28,000 visitors since opening. Standing 30 feet above Kearsley Creek and nestled among black cherry, red oak, white oak, basswood and butternut hickory trees, the structure accommodates up to 30 people and meets ADA requirements with both stairs and a ramp. You’ll find educational tools inside including microscopes, binoculars, and a projector that make learning feel like an adventure.
Nature’s Superhero Trail: Kids can follow the adventures of The Preservers – nature’s version of the Avengers – by walking the Superhero Trail and stopping at turtle-shaped signs that tell pieces of their story. The superhero team includes Grandmaster Snapper, Owl Girl, The Frog, and Miss Sunflower, each dedicated to preserving natural resources and the environment. You can even download digital comic books about their adventures to continue the fun at home.
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Keep Exploring →Seven Miles of Diverse Trails: The trail system features a mix of mowed lanes, gravel roads, and short foot paths that are well-mapped and perfect for families who want nature walks without spending the entire day hiking. You’ll discover interesting destinations along the way like pond overlooks, a historic windmill, suspension bridges, and peaceful spots along Kearsley Creek.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: You’re likely to spot deer, wild turkeys, snapping turtles, herons, raccoons, chipmunks, and various bird species during your visit. The pond areas feature both snapping turtles and colorful koi fish, with viewing overlooks where you can watch them swim. Wildlife encounters happen frequently throughout the preserve, creating memorable moments as you explore the natural habitats.
Educational Visitor Center: The Forbes and Martha Merkley Visitor Center features an extensive collection of native Michigan flora and fauna including over 100 mounts, live animals like box turtles, tree frogs, and hognose snakes, plus hands-on activities and educational games. The main room contains 22 large display cases filled with preserved birds, including beautiful specimens like scarlet tanagers surrounded by their eggs.
Gardens & Natural Landscapes
Specialized Garden Collections: The arboretum houses impressive themed collections including Flowering Crabapples, Maples, Conifers, and Native Species, along with specialized gardens like the Native Woodland garden, Butterfly garden, Rain garden, and Ornamental Grass garden. You’ll also find a Butterfly House and community vegetable gardens where locals can grow their own produce.
Diverse Ecosystems: Scattered throughout the grounds, you’ll encounter meadows, ponds, wetlands, and forests that create rich habitats for wildlife viewing and photography. The preserve’s Edge of the Woods Trail takes you through the most interesting sections, including the wooded floodplain of Kearsley Creek and a collection of ponds and wetlands in the heart of the park.
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Discover MoreMemorial Garden: A peaceful Memorial Garden provides a quiet space for reflection while surrounded by beautiful plantings and natural beauty.
Atmosphere & Experience
Family-Friendly Environment: You’ll feel safe exploring the trails whether you’re walking alone or with children, as the preserve maintains a welcoming atmosphere without feeling crowded. The easy, well-marked trails make navigation simple throughout most of the preserve.
Educational Focus: The preserve serves both recreational and educational purposes, with Chief Park Naturalist Nicole Ferguson emphasizing how the site provides hands-on learning opportunities about Michigan’s native ecosystems. Weekend programs conducted by Genesee County Park Naturalists offer guided experiences and nature education.
Seasonal Beauty: Spring visits are particularly magical when flowers are blooming throughout the trails, making hikes even more enjoyable and peaceful. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when the ground is frozen with at least three inches of snow.
Other Considerations
Completely Free Admission: Best of all, admission to For-Mar is completely free, with expenses covered by the county parks and grounds millage. This makes it an exceptional value, especially considering all the activities and educational opportunities available.
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Keep Exploring →Accessibility Features: The famous treehouse is barrier-free and accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, and the preserve offers paved paths alongside natural trails. You can even rent discovery backpacks, snowshoes, walking sticks, and yoga mats to enhance your visit.
Practical Details: The visitor center is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, while the grounds stay open from 8 AM until sunset. The preserve is pet-free and smoke-free to protect the sensitive wildlife and plant life. Ample parking is available, and the location is easily accessible from I-69, less than 15 minutes from Flint.
Best Times to Visit: It’s wise to call ahead if you’re planning a special trip to see the treehouse, as it can be closed for educational field trips and programs. Summer visits may include more mosquitoes near water areas, but you’ll also see the most active wildlife during warmer months.
For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum
📍 2142 N Genesee Rd, Burton, MI 48509
