Top 7 Lakes around Barton Hills
Best lakes around Barton Hills are primarily found in the surrounding natural areas, as the neighborhood itself does not contain traditional lakes. The region is characterized by its proximity to significant water features like the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake, which are integral to the area's natural landscape. These water bodies offer diverse recreational opportunities and contribute to the local environment.
Best lakes around Barton Hills
- The most popular lakes is Gallup Youth Fishing Pond, a lake…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Gallup Youth Fishing Pond
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Tubbs Nature Area
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Gallup Park
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Black Pond Woods Nature Area
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Black Pond
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Tips from the Community
Black Pond is the centerpiece of Black Pond Woods Nature Area. There is a trail that runs along the perimeter of the pond.
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Great park in the middle of the B2B section of Ann Arbor. Playgrounds and pavilions for picnics are plentiful. Large fields for kites and volleyball. Everything is visible from the B2B. Large parking lot nearby, pending the construction in the area.
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Nice pond in the middle of gallup park by the B2B. Fishing is very popular here in the summer.
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Three Ann Arbor parks have been designated as wildlife sanctuary areas with limits placed on permitted activities there by City Council. The designations were given to Gallup Park, across the Huron River from Huron High School, Dolph Park, in the westside Lakewood subdivisión, and Bird Hills Park located in northern Ann Arbor off Newport Road. The wildlife sanctuary designations means no hunting or trapping of animals or waterfowl will be allowed. Also, in all three parks council prohibited group picnicking or any other use by groups of more than 10, except for natural history interpretation, to protect the areas. In Gallup Park, the new regulations designated the small lake there as a "youth fishing pond", meaning only youths and accompanying adults can fish here. In Dolph Park, family picnicking has been restricted to designated picnic areas. Also, use of the First and Second Sister Lakes has been restricted to fishing and motorless boating.
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Right in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene, explore the wild beauty of the publicly owned Tubbs Hill peninsula with an easy trek on the Tubbs Hill Nature Trail. The two-mile trail loop along Lake Coeur d’Alene offers historical points along the way, plus there are terrific photo opportunities. Tubbs Hill consists of over 120 acres and is bordered by Lake Coeur d’Alene on the west, south and east sides. There are several miles of hiking trails on the hill that provide spectacular scenery for everyone to enjoy.
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There is a fairly dense trail that leads back to Black Pond, a small and definitely black swamp with a bridge over it. I was there in the height of summer and it was only a little buggy, but I imagine it would be quite beautiful in the fall. There aren't many people here, so it's more quiet and secluded than the Arboretum. If you get tired of the usual campus activities, this is a good place to go for a walk or even a bike ride.
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This is a great trail compared to everything else in the area! It's hidden, it's actually BEHIND the science center. There are four trails to choose from. Black, Red, Yellow, and Green. Bring good shoes because you'll encounter a lot of inclines and a few rabbit trails ahead on all four trails. I suggest the black trail. It takes you right to the black pond. The pond is in a small valley, away from roads, and is very quiet. There's a small pontoon bridge over it. Whether you walk to explore the area or jog to build up your stamina, it's a great trail either way!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water features can I find near Barton Hills?
While Barton Hills itself doesn't have traditional lakes, the area is rich with significant water features. You'll find natural spring-fed pools like Barton Springs Pool, the extensive Barton Creek Greenbelt with its creek and trails, and Lady Bird Lake, which is popular for non-motorized water sports. Additionally, there are several parks with ponds and river access, such as Gallup Park and Gallup Youth Fishing Pond.
Are there family-friendly water areas around Barton Hills?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Gallup Youth Fishing Pond is exclusively designated for youth fishing with accompanying adults, offering a tranquil setting. Gallup Park features playgrounds, picnic spots, and canoe/kayak rentals, making it ideal for a family day out. Olson Park Pond also has a playground and picnic areas.
Where can I go for hiking or walking near these water features?
The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers 12.68 miles of trails, considered among the top hiking trails in Texas. Gallup Park has over 3 miles of trails for biking and walking that connect to the Border-to-Border Trail. Tubbs Nature Area provides peaceful natural trails with river views. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the area, including easy loops like Bird Hills Nature Area Loop, on the Hiking around Barton Hills guide.
Are there dog-friendly options near the lakes?
Yes, Gallup Park is noted as dog-friendly, offering ample space for walks along its scenic trails. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is also a popular spot for dog owners, though leash rules may apply depending on the specific section.
What natural features can I expect to see?
You can enjoy diverse natural features. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is known for its scenic landscapes, limestone cliffs, and dense foliage. Tubbs Nature Area boasts river views and diverse vegetation, including sugar maple and oak trees. Black Pond Woods Nature Area features woodlands, wetlands, and a unique dark pond. Gallup Park offers scenic walkways around small islands and along the Huron River.
Can I go swimming in any of these water bodies?
Barton Springs Pool is an iconic natural spring-fed swimming pool, maintaining a refreshing 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. When water levels are sufficient, Barton Creek within the Greenbelt is also popular for swimming and tubing. Lady Bird Lake is primarily for non-motorized boating, not swimming.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or facilities?
Gallup Park is noted for having an accessible playground and scenic walkways, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes and water features around Barton Hills?
Barton Springs Pool is popular year-round due to its consistent water temperature. For hiking and outdoor activities along the Barton Creek Greenbelt or in parks like Gallup Park, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures. Summer can be very hot, making water activities particularly appealing. Winter can also be a good time for less crowded trails.
What kind of water sports can I do on Lady Bird Lake?
Lady Bird Lake is ideal for non-motorized water activities. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and rowing. The lake is bordered by the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, perfect for activities around the water.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting?
Gallup Park has areas designated as wildlife sanctuaries, meaning no hunting or trapping is allowed, which can increase opportunities for wildlife observation. The various nature areas like Tubbs and Black Pond Woods also provide habitats for local wildlife.
Where can I find less crowded natural settings?
Tubbs Nature Area is described as a small wooded area with minimal traffic, offering a peaceful natural setting without traveling far from the city. Black Pond Woods Nature Area is also noted for being quiet and away from roads.
What cycling opportunities are available near these water areas?
Gallup Park offers over 3 miles of trails for biking that connect to the Border-to-Border Trail. Lady Bird Lake is encircled by the 11-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. For more extensive cycling, you can find various gravel biking and road cycling routes in the region, such as those listed in the Gravel biking around Barton Hills and Road Cycling Routes around Barton Hills guides.
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