The Hannacroix Creek Preserve is an interesting hike just a short ways outside the city in New Baltimore. There are multiple trails to combine, however the smaller seemed less kept compared to the main trail. You pass through diverse areas leading up to a nice little waterfall, apparently a spot for people to jump in and cool off.
Beautiful summer flowers can be seen on the trails, interesting fungi and insects too.
Monkey Flower (Mimulus ringens)
On a rock in the water we spotted some Dobsonfly eggs, google them for your nightmares. I was told that Dobsonflies hatch in the water during thunderstorms, a mythical tale for a terrifying creature.
We spotted woodpeckers flying, and also many crows. You will see many stone walls and the foundation of an 1800s paper mill along the trails, which are out and back totaling about 3 miles if you take all of the loops. Bring bug spray!
http://www.newbaltimoreconservancy.org/land_trails.php