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Hidden Lake Gardens, a botanical garden and arboretum, are owned and operated by Michigan State University. The name "Hidden Lake" comes from the glacial lake at the heart of the glens and rolling surroundings that comprise the facility. Harry Fee, Adrian businessman and garden lover envisioned a place open to the public for the enjoyment of the human endeavor to order Nature and yet, at the same time, to create "natural" landscapes.
The 755 acre Gardens are located just eight miles west of Tecumseh, Michigan, on Michigan Route 50, in the scenic Irish Hills and in the vicinity of the Michigan International Speedway.
It is a place to escape the everyday; to experience the serenity and peacefulness afforded by the sights, sounds and aromas of flowers, rustling leaves and breezes rushing through branches and across meadows. The Gardens are a haven for nature lovers and gardeners of every age and interest.
HLG is home to three world class botanical collections: the Harper Collection of Rare and Dwarf Conifers, the Ralph and Dorothy Benedict Hosta Hillside and the MacCready Bonsai Courtyard. These collections are the core for such other collections as the flowering crabapples, the vast number of evergreens and ornamental trees, not to speak of the many varieties of annuals, shrubs and perennials.
There is a nationally recognized demonstration garden where plantings provide the backdrop for weddings and other festive gatherings. Natural woodlands abound with spring blooming wildflowers. Bike, hiking and car paths offer the visitor an array of sightseeing possibilities. In winter the hiking paths double as cross country skiing runs.
Hidden Lake Gardens fulfill a teaching mission as well with educational programs, festivals and guided tours for everyone. All in all, the Gardens are in invaluable community resource for Michigan and the nation, unparalleled in beauty and providing four seasons of enjoyment.
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