There’s something quietly magical about the Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens canopy walk in Midland, Michigan—and not just because it's beautiful. It also happens to be the longest canopy walk in the United States. Yup. Spanning a remarkable 1,400 feet, with the highest point reaching 39 feet (12 meters) above the forest floor, this isn’t your average boardwalk through the trees.
As you step onto this treetop walk, you're not just getting a view—you’re stepping into a new layer of the forest. The walkway threads through pine woods, over reflective ponds, and across blooming orchards, each section gently nudging you into a deeper calm. It’s part garden, part engineering marvel, and entirely worth the walk.
You enter from the visitor center and follow quiet trails—maybe half a mile or so—before the walkway reveals itself. It’s smooth, wide, and gently curved, with three distinct arms that branch off through different parts of the forest. One takes you over a glass floor (yes, glass—brace yourself if you're squeamish), another hovers above an orchard, and a third brings you to a pond overlook. Oh, and the cargo net lounge area? It's both playful and oddly relaxing, depending on how adventurous you're feeling that day.
Now, I’ll be honest: I hesitated for a second on that glass platform. It’s sturdy, sure, but something about seeing 39 feet straight down gives your stomach a little jump. Still, the view is kind of incredible—sunlight through leaves, birds darting past your feet (or below them, technically), and a weirdly peaceful stillness in the air. Totally worth it.
Best time to visit the Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens Canopy Walk? Easy: spring or early fall. Spring brings those soft greens, birdsong, and the occasional scent of lilacs drifting through the air. Autumn, though? That’s the showstopper. The canopy turns gold and crimson and orange, and suddenly every angle feels like a photo op. Try to get there early—right after opening. It’s quieter, cooler, and you’ll feel like the forest is yours for a while.
And after your adventure above the trees? Midland has surprisingly solid accommodations. The H Hotel is boutique and polished. If you’re more into the familiar, the Hampton Inn or Residence Inn by Marriott offer comfy rooms, breakfast, and an easy drive to the gardens. Staying downtown means you're close to art galleries, the Tridge, and some great little coffee spots.
One thing: weekends can be busy. Think kids, nature groups, and yes—those very slow photo-takers. If solitude is your goal, try a weekday or even a rainy morning (don’t worry, the canopy’s still open unless conditions get bad).
The Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens canopy walk blends the playful and the peaceful. It’s architectural and organic at the same time. And somehow, even when you’re 39 feet up, it still manages to feel grounding. You’ll leave lighter, clearer, and probably thinking, “Wait, why don’t more places have one of these?”
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