Hidden Lake Gardens | Pick a day to go green in a quiet corner of the Irish Hills

Odd that one of the first things to jump out should be a little black plastic tag, only because it’s followed immediately by another. And another. And then a hundred more or maybe a thousand more or who knows how many, they’re everywhere. There are no shortage of wonders as you slow roll through Hidden Lake Gardens near Tipton, Michigan - one being the massive collection of plant life that lives there, and another being how meticulously every species is labeled.

Hidden Lake Gardens is a 755-acre spread that lets visitors enjoy a winding drive along a six-mile one-way drive that carves through forests and fields and over hills, winding its way around – you guessed it, Hidden Lake – surrounded by every type of tree, plant or flower fit to survive in Michigan. Those that can’t hack it have a home in the multi-domed conservatory, where visitors can wander the walkways and get up close to plants that thrive in tropical and arid climates.

Once gifted to Michigan State University by original owner, visionary and Adrian businessman Harry Fee, Hidden Lake is managed by the MSU Horticulture Department. It’s a constantly evolving landscape, what Mr. Fee envisioned to be “a dream as you go development.” Hikers can leave their cars and take on one of many curated trails for a walk through the woods. And in the fall of 2022, MSU is planning to add a Canopy Walk, which will take explorers 700 feet high for a spectacular view of the entire grounds.

Hidden Lake Gardens is located on the north side of M-50 just west of Tipton, which is just west of Tecumseh. It’s the best 5 bucks you’ll spend all year.