Posted in Detroit
September 01, 2020
9 Low-Key Hikes Around Metro Detroit With Amazing Payoffs
You don’t have to embark on an intense hiking trip to experience beautiful nature in Metro Detroit. In fact, many of our trail systems in and around the Motor City offer breathtaking views of lakes, rivers, meadows, and so much more. When you’re searching for a leisurely adventure with brilliant payoffs, check out these nine pretty hiking options in and around Detroit.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Sterling State Park is known for being the only Michigan State Park on the shores of Lake Erie, and we Detroiters are lucky to live just 40 minutes from it. When you visit, you’ll find a beautiful trail that extends for 3.7 miles in a loop and offers gorgeous views of inland marshes and waterways. When you’re through exploring, head to the beach to unwind. What could be better?
If you’re a fan of flora and fauna, you’ll fall in love with this stunning trail. The looped pathway extends for 2.1 miles and while it’s rated by visitors as an easy trail, the views you’ll catch along the way are anything but simple. During warmer months, wildflowers abound. As you marvel at small ponds, towering trees, and gorgeous greenery, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Not looking to leave the city limits? Head to the Blue Heron Lagoon Trail on Belle Isle and embark on the perfect outdoor adventure for Motor City faithfuls. In addition to peaceful scenery and - you guessed it - glimpses of Blue Heron Lagoon itself, this 2.2-mile loop gives way to views of Detroit and Windsor, Ontario.
Situated within Quickstad Park, this short but sweet trail comprises a 0.7-mile loop and offers visitors the chance to reconnect with nature in a peaceful, serene setting. The trail itself is beginner-friendly and perfect for families, but the payoff is spectacular: you’ll have the chance to admire a heritage forest area here, which features long-standing beech, maple, and hickory trees. Talk about fascinating.
Coming in at just under one mile, this loop trail is beautifully rustic and easily traversable by visitors of various ages. When you stop by, you’ll find all sorts of natural beauty and direct access to the iconic River Rouge, which winds through the area. Dogs are welcome to join you on this fun hike, so long as they are kept leashed throughout the trail area.
If you’ve ever found yourself in Ann Arbor, you might have visited the iconic “Arb,” which features 123 breathtaking acres full of blooms, trailways, and all sorts of natural delights. If you choose to hike here, you’ll find incredible 3.5 miles of pathways dotted with flowers during warm seasons, large patches of greenery, and waterfront hideaways along the Huron River. It’s hard to imagine anything more magical.
Venture to Port Huron for an easy walk along the boardwalk at Thomas Edison Parkways, which allows curious visitors to enjoy amazing views of the St. Clair River. Situated in the shadow of the Blue Water Bridge, this walkway offers 4,700 feet of shoreline property and some of the most marvelous vistas imaginable - you can even see across the vibrant blue waters to Ontario.
If you’re looking for a slightly longer hike, head to the Ann Arbor Ramble Trail within Gallup Park. Extending in a loop for 5.9 miles, the trailway is great for bicyclists, joggers, and traditional hikers alike. While it’s largely flat and easy to explore, the trail is home to a world of beauty, including wildlife, Huron River access, boardwalk bridges, and lush greenery galore.
Take a day trip to this 1.6-mile loop trail in Lake St. Clair Metropark, which visitors describe as a calm and easy hike. Birdwatchers and animal lovers will especially enjoy this spot, which has been noted as a great spot to see wildlife and plenty of other natural splendor. From inland lake views to forested scenery, there’s plenty to see here - and the beautiful payoff is so worth the leisurely stroll.
Are there any other great hikes in and around Detroit that should have been included on our list of easy hikes with fantastic payoffs? We’re always eager to hear from you, so drop us a line in the comment section below with your favorite spots! Or, if you’ve got specific suggestions for future pieces, feel free to fill out our official nomination form by clicking here.
Searching for more outdoor fun? Check out this underrated Metropark near Detroit.
Address: 2800 State Park Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
Address: Nichols Arboretum, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
Address: Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metro Pkwy, Harrison Twp, MI 48045, USA
Address: W Bloomfield Trail, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48323, USA
Address: 198 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Address: Tenhave Woods, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
Address: 31845 Evergreen Rd, Beverly Hills, MI 48025, USA
Address: Thomas Edison Pkwy, Port Huron, MI 48060, USA
Address: Normandy Rd & Lexington Blvd, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
