Facilities

Limited access and trail closures at Leonard Preserve are in effect from November 10^th – 30^th. WCPARC and Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors provide outdoor hunting access to veterans and people with disabilities during this time. Visit the kiosk at the Union Street parking lot to view a map showing trail access and other details. Questions? Call Allison at (734) 971-6337.

About the Leonard Preserve

Leonard Preserve is the largest natural area in the County's system of NAPP preserves and protects nearly one mile of River Raisin shoreline. Located just northwest of the Village of Manchester, this rich and diverse landscape includes rolling hills, woodlands, wetlands, prairie and former pasture land. The diversity of habitats makes for very good wildlife viewing. Wood ducks, coyotes, blue racers, and Blanding’s turtles are some of the animals you may see at this preserve.

• Acres: 259
• Established: 2004
• Trail Length: 4.2 miles

The Leonard Preserve is operated by the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission and was purchased through the Natural Areas Preservation Program in partnership with The Nature Conservancy.

Hiking

 Put on your hiking boots because there are over four miles of nature trails. Be sure to visit the south end of the Leonard Preserve. Here you will find a 10-acre prairie remnant, which is home to some uncommon wildflowers and grassland nesting birds. The prairie grasses often grow over five feet tall by autumn. If you enjoy expansive vistas, a hike to the southernmost hills in any season is worth the effort!

Directions

Directions: From I-94: Exit Number 159 (M-52), southbound. Take M-52 approximately 10.5 miles, turn right onto Main Street. Turn right on Union Street. The preserve entrance is at the end of Union Street, off Main Street/Austin Road in the Village of Manchester (west of the Manchester downtown area). Head north on Union Street, when the street bears left and turns to gravel you will see the preserve entry sign. Keep going, parking area on the right.