Did you know that Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan is home to the longest canopy walk in the United States? At 1,400 feet in length and heights of up to 40 feet, this ADA accessible trail is a thrilling adventure for the entire family.
When I heard that the longest canopy walk in the United States was opening right here in my home state of Michigan, I knew that our family HAD TO check it out.
The canopy walk opened at Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan in October 2018, and we went to check it out that very same month. We are so glad we did. It was amazing!
In fact, all of Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest was pretty amazing.
Longest Canopy Walk in the United States
Located in the Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens, the newly-opened canopy walk is 1,400 feet in length and reaches heights of 40 feet. Also, it is ADA accessible.
The canopy walk overlooks pine trees, a newly-planted orchard, and a scenic pond area.
In addition to the great views, it has several nature-based interactive (and often adventurous) features:
- A large cargo net suspended 35 feet above the forest floor allows you to enjoy the canopy in a unique way as you climb, crawl, sit, or lie on the netting.
- A clear glass platform floating over the orchard removes the visual barriers disconnecting you from the surrounding nature.
- The shelter that overhangs the pond area encourages you to pause and reflect upon the view.
- Two elevated wooden pods sway as you walk within them and creates a sense of being part of the natural surroundings.
- A netted walkway leading to one of the elevated pods encourages exploration.
Plus, the Canopy Walk is beautiful year round. Being surrounded by mostly spruces and pines, the area remains green all year long. While it is not the best place to look for displays of brilliant fall colors, it is green and full of life no matter what the season is… even in the grayest of cold winter days!
Helpful Information
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens is full of pleasant surprises! It’s highly accessible and very affordable.
The Canopy Walk is quite popular. I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds. If you are going on a weekend, make a reservation ahead of time.
Location and Parking
The Canopy Walk can be found within Whiting Forest at Dow Gardens. The Whiting Forest Visitor Center is located at 2203 Eastman Avenue, Midland, Michigan.
There are two parking lots right within Whiting Forest. A printable map is available on their website.
In 2019, guests will also be able to access Whiting Forest directly from the gardens via a new pedestrian bridge. The pedestrian bridge was under construction during our visit and should open in 2019. This will allow guests to easily travel between the forest and gardens no matter which area they are parked in.
Hours of Operation
Dow Gardens is open daily (except for a few major holidays and in the event of bad weather). They typically open at 9AM but closing times vary by season. Please confirm their hours of operation before your visit.
SPECIAL NOTE: Due to its popularity, reservations are required for weekend visits to the Whiting Forest/Canopy Walk.
Admission Cost
Admission prices for Dow Gardens (including Whiting Forest and its Canopy Walk) are very affordable. Our visit cost only $12 for our entire family!
In Fall 2018, admission prices were $5 per adult, $1 per child/student, and children under age 5 were free. Annual passes were $10. Admission grants you access to all areas of Dow Gardens.
SPECIAL NOTE: Admission prices are increasing in 2019. Please visit the Dow Gardens website for current admission rates.
ADA Accessible
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens takes pride in its accessibility.
The four-story tall Canopy Walk is wheelchair accessible and cane-friendly. Additionally, other ADA accessible features on-site include 1.5 miles of hard paved trails, the visitor center and a café.
RELATED: Accessibility of Whiting Forest highlighted at pre-opening event – Midland Daily News
For more details regarding accessibility at Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest, visit their website’s accessibility page.
Don’t Miss These Other Areas of Dow Gardens
In addition to the amazing Canopy Walk, Dow Gardens features a lot of other interesting things to see and do.
Our other favorite activities with Whiting Forest include:
- Hiking trails throughout the forest which feature scenic views and various points of interest
- The super fun nature-themed playground in Whiting Forest
RELATED: Amazing Playgrounds Throughout the Midwest United States
Some of our favorite things to do within Dow Gardens include:
- Fun and learning at Children’s Garden in the Dow Gardens
- Views overlooking the Alden B Dow Home and Studio
- Snapping pictures of the children peeking their heads through the trunks of Birch trees
- Enjoying the small waterfall and wandering through Boulder Pass
- Visiting the Color Garden
- Exploring the Secret Garden
- And so much more
And, don’t forget to look around the two visitor centers. They both feature some interesting exhibits about Dow Gardens, the area and the history of the Dow family.
Enjoy Your Michigan Canopy Walk Adventure!
Have you been to Dow Gardens before? Do you have plans to visit the new Canopy Walk in Whiting Forest at Dow Gardens?
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This looks like a fun place to spend some time with the family! The price is perfect, too. We would love to explore all of the walkways. What fun!
We couldn’t believe how affordable it was! Plus, there is so much to see and do there… besides the canopy walk even!
This is so totally cool. Sending the link to my cousin who lives in Detroit.
Dow Gardens and its canopy walk is not too far from Detroit. It would be a great day trip!
wow this looks awesome! Not just for its length, but love a good playground and the price is right for sure! Makes a fun family day out thats not super $$$
Excellent post….