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Heading into your first year of college, you’ll soon learn that you will need to take time to relax and de-stress. For me, I find that spending time in nature provides a wonderful escape from stressful classes and finals. Luckily, I chose a university that has nature all around and near campus.

The Arb

You’ll hear a lot about the Arb during your time at UMich. It’s a regular picnic and relaxation spot for many students on campus. Located right by quite a few dorms (including Markley, Mosher-Jordan, and Alice Lloyd), the Arb provides a very accessible escape from stress. My friends and I go to the Arb to play frisbee in the field, read a book along the river, or hike along one of the many trails throughout the park.

Diag

One of the closest nature spots you can find is right in the heart of campus. The Diag is a wonderful gathering place to hang out with friends or even sit down and do a little bit of school work. There have been many days where I gathered my book and my hammock to head to the Diag for a day of blissful relaxation. Because it’s located so close to so many school buildings, it’s a great place to stop and rest in between classes.

U-M Campus Farm

The U-M Campus Farm is one of the best spots on campus to go for walks, do some light gardening, or even explore the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Unfortunately, it is a bit of a drive away. But fear not! The Friends of the Campus Farm club actually organizes rides for people to get to the farm and do some volunteer gardening (and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to take some veggies home!). Also, if you have a bike on campus, biking to the farm is a lovely little trip with beautiful scenery.

The Cascades

Finally, if you’re looking to relieve some stress with some fun, go check out the Cascades! The Cascades are seven or so mini rapids that you can go tubing down. I bought some $5 tubes from Target and my friends and I had a blast floating down the river. Be sure to check it out before it gets too cold outside though!

After living in Ann Arbor for a few years, I’ve discovered that nature is the perfect way for me to relieve stress, and maybe it’s the same for you! If it is, hopefully you’ll be able to explore some of these spots while you’re on campus. Ann Arbor is not lacking when it comes to nature areas, so hopefully you’ll be able to find some pretty incredible spots to spend your free time. And if you do, feel free to let me know about them!