Hidden Lake Gardens September 2020

My husband and I often take day trips and one destination that we have enjoyed over the years is getting away to Hidden Lake Gardens. It’s a nature lover's paradise with 10 miles of beautiful hiking trails, a 6-mile paved scenic drive, and definitely worth the trip as there’s so much to see and do. 

Located in the Irish Hills of Michigan, (Tipton, Michigan), Harry Fee's former nursery garden was bequeathed to the Michigan State University and is run as a botanic garden. You’ll find 755 acres of plants (arboretum and botanical garden), including three prominent collections.

All life needs water to sustain itself. Hidden Lake offers serene visuals. I sit on the bench and recall comforting vacations at the lake with family and friends.

The Benedict Hosta Collection, also known as Hosta Hillside, is located on the site of the original rock garden built in the 1940s by Mr. Fee. 

I love this area as it contains over 800 varieties. There is a stream that trickles down the hill attracting wildlife and it's a cooler spot to frequent as it rests in the shade.

Every time I see this image of my husband looking out over the landscape I think of John Muir's words; Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine into trees.

Hidden Lake Gardens

By all these lovely tokens September days are here, With summer’s best of weather And autumn’s best of cheer." - Helen Hunt Jackson, September 1830-1885