Mary Beth Doyle Park & Wetland Preserve

Natural Wonders

Spread across 81 acres, this spot combines the best of both worlds: recreational fun and natural beauty. At the heart of it all lies a wetland preserve created by a clever dam-and-channel system that reroutes Malletts Creek.

The wetlands burst with native flowers and offer a year-round haven for wildlife enthusiasts. We've found it's a fantastic spot for bird watching - there's something magical about spotting different species against the backdrop of stunning sunsets that paint the water in golden hues.

The park's network of trails gives you options - paved paths for smooth sailing or unpaved routes for a more rugged experience. If accessibility is important, you'll appreciate the wide, paved half-mile loop that accommodates wheelchairs, strollers, and even those roller skating adventures you've been planning.

As you explore, these paths will guide you through a surprising variety of landscapes: peaceful woodlands, serene wetlands, and open fields that showcase Michigan's natural beauty across all seasons. In some of the marshier areas, wooden boardwalks keep your feet dry while you soak in the surroundings. What's really convenient is how smaller connecting trails link to nearby neighborhoods, making this natural retreat easily accessible from various directions.

Fun for Everyone

Disc golf enthusiasts, take note - the park's 18-hole course welcomes beginners while still offering enough challenge to keep things interesting. With terrain that includes medium hills and wooded areas, you'll find yourself navigating a diverse course. Both short and long tee pads accommodate different skill levels, and with many holes falling between 150-300 feet, you'll have plenty of chances for those satisfying birdies and ace runs.

The park's basketball courts received a fresh makeover in 2022, providing a smooth surface for your pickup games. Meanwhile, the play area offers kids a space to burn off energy with unique climbing structures, various swings (including an adaptive swing - a thoughtful touch), a teeter-totter, and other engaging equipment. While it best serves elementary-aged children, younger ones can still find plenty to enjoy.

Need a moment to catch your breath? Scattered within the park are shaded picnic tables and benches - perfect spots to relax or enjoy a small gathering. While you won't find built-in grills, these areas still provide comfortable spaces to spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy an outdoor meal.

Good to Know

A heads-up before you visit: there are no public restrooms or drinking fountains here, so plan accordingly.

You can park in one of two spots: a larger lot at the end of Birch Hollow Drive or a smaller unpaved area off Packard Road.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friend, but remember they need to stay leashed, and you'll need to clean up after them. Also note that smoking and alcohol aren't allowed in the park.

During your visit, you might notice some traffic noise from nearby Interstate 94, particularly in the morning. And if you're coming in winter, be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the walking paths can get slippery.

Mary Beth Doyle Park offers both recreational activities and a peaceful natural setting within the city. The park has been well-maintained in recent years, with improved cleanliness throughout the grounds.