Top 8 Metro Detroit Parks
Becky Harris
Growing up on the east side of Michigan, I always thought I’d have to move to Washington State or Colorado to find good hiking trails. I’m a committed outdoorswoman, having hiked or backpacked through 22 of the 63 U.S. National Parks. However, I do hold a day job, which means that it’s not always feasible to hit up a National Park for a casual weekend hike.
When I moved to Metro Detroit, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to find versatile trails to continue my passion for hiking. Suffice to say, I was wrong. After devoting time to explore the parks in this area, I quickly learned there are many excellent hiking options right outside my front door!
My recommendation for avid Metro Detroit hikers is to purchase a Huron-Clinton Metroparks pass. It pays for itself within three to four visits and is well worth the expense. Visit www.metroparks.com for more information. Please note: Not all of the below parks are considered Metroparks, so they are not all included in this pass.
Below are my favorite Metro Detroit parks to squeeze in a quick weekend hike. I hope you enjoy these hikes as much as I do, and make the most of what’s left of the summer!
1
Hudson Mills Metropark
Hudson Mills Metropark - North Territorial Road, Dexter MI
This park features 15 miles of hiking trails, rustic and paved for all different hiking experience levels. Miles of cross-country skiing trails along with an 18-hole golf course give visitors something to do all year round. Its location makes this a great park to pair with a day visit to downtown Dexter: grab a coffee at Riverview Cafe before your hike, or pick up a slice at Aubree’s Pizzeria and Grill after.
2
Maybury State Park
Maybury State Park - Eight Mile Road, Northville MI
I visited Maybury in the early fall, and found the splash of colors mesmerizing. One of the most unique features you can find here is the working farm, open all year for visitors and featuring demonstrations such as sheep shearing, honey extracting, and grain harvesting.
3
Kensington Metropark
Kensington Metropark - Huron River Parkway, Milford MI
Lush, hilly terrain and miles of hiking trails make this a must visit destination for avid hikers in Metro Detroit. Play on Kensington’s 27-hole disk golf course, or swim, boat, or tour the nature center. There is something to do for the whole family.
4
Indian Springs Metropark
Indian Springs Metropark - Indian Trail, White Lake MI
My most recently explored park, this one is a bit farther north than I usually go for hiking. It’s well-worth the trip. Bring the kids for a fun day at the Spray n’ Play Waterpark, or hike or bike on one of the many forested and open trails. Be aware that some of the trails do not allow pets, so this may not be the best place to take Fido.
5
Stoney Creek Metropark
Stoney Creek Metropark/Shelby Trail - Shelby Township, MI USA
This was one of the first parks I visited when I moved to Metro Detroit. A central lake offers boating, fishing, and a huge water slide. Rent a paddleboat and explore the lake, or swim at one of the two beaches. Don’t want to get wet? Grill out, bike or hike in the maze of paved and unpaved trails.
6
Proud Lake Recreation Area
Proud Lake Recreation Area - Glengary Road, Commerce Charter Township MI
Another park in Michigan with a central lake, Proud Lake has many benches spaced throughout for hiking, and ample birdwatching for those seeking to take things at a slower pace.
7
Waterloo-Pinckney Trail
Waterloo-Pinckney Trail - Grass Lake, MI USA
Split between Waterloo Recreation Area and Pinckney Recreation Area, this is my favorite hiking trail in Metro Detroit. It stretches 33.9 miles, is point-to-point (meaning it doesn’t loop around) and passes by swamps, lakes, meadows and forests, giving you a taste of the best Michigan has to offer.
8
Huron Meadows Metropark
Huron Meadows Metropark - Hammel Road, Brighton MI
I hiked Huron Meadows in the middle of winter with over five inches of snow on the ground, and can confirm it is beautiful any time of year. A river runs through the park, lined with thick deciduous forest and nearly 18 miles of hiking trails.
