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Parks #17 in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Mary Beth Doyle Park

4.5 · 401 reviews
Active and recreation-focused
Mary Beth Doyle Park, 3500 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park was originally known as Malletts Creek Park before being renamed in memory of Mary Beth Doyle, a local environmental activist.

2

The 18-hole disc golf course is widely recognized as one of the most challenging public-access courses in the Ann Arbor municipal system.

3

The site functions as a critical flood control basin for the Malletts Creek watershed, helping to manage regional stormwater runoff.

4

The park connects directly to the broader Ann Arbor non-motorized trail network, allowing for extended hiking and cycling.

5

The naturalized detention areas within the park are intentionally managed to support native wetland flora and migratory bird habitats.

Overview

Mary Beth Doyle Park is a 70-acre public space in Ann Arbor featuring a prominent 18-hole disc golf course that winds through wooded and open terrain. The park contains a paved multi-use trail that serves as a connector for hikers and joggers. Recreational amenities include a basketball court, a playground, and open fields for active play. A significant portion of the park is dedicated to a stormwater detention area that supports local wetland wildlife. The landscape is primarily comprised of rolling hills and mature deciduous trees. It acts as a key component of the local greenway system, providing non-motorized access between neighborhoods. Visitors can access the site via the Birch Hollow Drive entrance. The park remains a primary destination for local disc golf enthusiasts due to its varied elevation changes.

Photo spot

The elevated ridge overlooking the central pond and wetland area during the golden hour.

Insider tips

Bring bug spray during summer months, as the wetland areas can attract significant mosquito populations.

If playing disc golf, download a digital map of the course layout beforehand to navigate the transition between holes easily.

Use the paved perimeter path for easier walking if the interior field trails are muddy following rainfall.

What to avoid

Attempting the disc golf course without a spotter if the park is busy, as errant discs are common in the dense wooded sections.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to protect wetland vegetation; pack out all trash to maintain the park's environmental integrity.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2.5 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn, for the vibrant fall foliage and cooler temperatures ideal for disc golf.
Address
Mary Beth Doyle Park, 3500 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, United States
42.240, -83.710
Get directions
Details
Park Facilities18-hole disc golf course, basketball court, playground, and paved multi-use trails
LandscapeWooded hills and managed wetland detention areas

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn, for the vibrant fall foliage and cooler temperatures ideal for disc golf..

The elevated ridge overlooking the central pond and wetland area during the golden hour.

Close by you'll find Michigan Stadium, Gallup Park, University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum.