Venture into the Trees at Sutherland Nature Sanctuary

Updated

The 75 acres of Sutherland Nature Sanctuary in Metamora began as a private project to restore forested and farmed land to its natural beauty. There are multiple habitats in this relatively small space with over 2 miles of walking trails. Once we discovered this place, we couldn’t stay away and have even volunteered with some upkeep on “work days.” This place has certainly captured our hearts.

Entrance sign to Sutherland Nature Sanctuary
Sutherland Nature Sanctuary information sign and rock
Sutherland Nature Sanctuary Map
picnic area
porta-potty
Picnic shelter and parking lot

How to get there and other Logistics

The easiest way to get to Sutherland Nature Sanctuary is from M24 between Oxford and I69. Turn west on Pratt Road for 3 miles until you reach Deihl Road. Turn South on Deihl. The entrance is 1 mile down the road on your right. The driveway sneaks up on you, so watch for the sign off the road into the driveway.

Once you pull in, you will immediately notice the picnic tables under a large pavilion and the parking area to the left of that structure. To the right of the picnic area is a set of signs that tell a little of the history of the sanctuary and a large map of the trails. A large handicap-accessible porta potty is past the signs and behind a nice hedge of shrubs. It has always been clean, and we have been grateful for it several times. Everything you need to get started is conveniently located at the entrance.

Some paths are wet and muddy. There are rocks, roots, sticks, etc., in the pathways, so be aware of your footing and wear appropriate shoes.

You can bring your dog here as long as you keep it on a leash.

Habitats and Trails

natural arbor of trees and vines
looking up a tall tree
swamp
pond
meadow
grass pathway along small stream

Habitats

The wide range of habitats in such a small space has intrigued us. It seems every short walk brings out a new experience. There are hardwood forests, pine forests, a swamp, wetlands, ponds, a small stream, and a meadow all packed into the 75-acre lot. We love each of them for their unique character.

Gentiana andrewsii
new bridge at Sutherland Nature Sanctuary
E. Cottonwood sign at Sutherland
poison ivy on bench
Rebekah's Fort at Sutherland
Seat at the end of the Pine Tree Hallway

Sites along the Trails

There are seats, benches, and interesting little sites along the trails. Sometimes, we spy a plant we haven’t seen before and take a photo to look it up later at home. Several bridges and one of the boardwalks were recently rebuilt. Pictured above, the poison ivy is creeping up on the wooden bench. Just a gentle warning to look before you sit or touch. Plants and critters live here and do their plant and critter things.

winter stream with logs
pine tree hallway in winter
man on logs in fall
Woman dressed for winter in woods
pine tree hallway in fall
Stream in winter
Stream in fall

Seasons

We love Sutherland Nature Sanctuary in all seasons. There is beauty in each of the seasons on the trails, and it is fun to watch it change throughout the year. The trails are not groomed in the winter, so wear appropriate footwear.

If you enjoy having the woods to yourself, this is the place to go. There have been vehicles in the parking lot several times when we have come here, and we can hear voices through the woods, but it is rare for us to see another person while walking. The benches and seats encourage you to slow down and sit. Listen, look, and smell all that nature has to offer, and hopefully, you will fall in love with this beautiful place too.

If you enjoy low traffic natural sites like Sutherland, check out Baker Woodlot and Oakwood Lake Park in Michigan.

For directions and more information about the park, visit their website.

If you work up an appetite, you aren’t far from Oxford or Metamora for something to eat.