Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary

This designated watershed sanctuary area preserves the nation's northernmost stand of bald cypress, a sub-tropical tree found mostly in the Carolinas and Southeast, but unusual this far north. The Battle Creek cypress stand is thought to have been established here as long as 10,000 years ago; the 100-acre site provides visitors with a glimpse of the age of mammoths, when these strangely gnarled trees were common.

A more recently constructed quarter-mile-long boardwalk provides an elevated view of the swamp, and its more contemporary wildlife residents. A nature center interprets the area's natural and cultural history exhibits; films, demonstrations and other public programs are scheduled at the site throughout the year. Groups require advance registration; admission to the sanctuary is free to the public. Closed on Mondays and major holidays.