Posted in Detroit
March 24, 2021
9 Easy And Beautiful Spring Hikes Everyone In Metro Detroit Will Love
Springtime brings endless opportunities to head outside and bask in the sunshine. Flowers bloom, birds sing, and fresh air abounds – does it get much better? If you’re looking for a perfect opportunity to appreciate the arrival of warmer temperatures here in the Motor City, check out our list of nine awesome spring hikes to explore in and around Detroit. You’ll feel refreshed in no time at all.
This 0.7-mile pathway is located within Rouge Park and offers a quick escape for Detroiters who need to unwind among the beauty of the great outdoors. As its name suggests, the trail offers access to a longstanding stone bridge that crosses Al’s Creek, a tributary of the River Rouge itself. When you’re craving a bit of wooded wonder, look no further.
Situated within a preserve of the same name, Douglas Evans Nature Trail measures in at just under one mile and offers a beginner-friendly jaunt with access to the River Rouge, plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, and greenery galore during the spring months. You can even bring along your four-legged friend during your visit, so long as they are kept on a leash.
Of course, we’d be remiss to mention walking spots in and around Detroit without including our beloved RiverWalk. This stretch of land extends along the shoreline of our stunning Detroit River and comes to life as temperatures increase, offering everything from picnic space at Milliken State Park to eateries and viewing points along the way. You’ll appreciate gorgeous views of the skyline as you stroll.
Head to Lake Erie Metropark to walk along the Cherry Island Marsh Trail, a 1.6-mile loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding marshland and wildlife who call it home. Visitors have even noted the appearance of bald eagles and other rare creatures during their time here. On a spring afternoon, there’s a real sense of adventure to be found - and you can round it out with a visit to the shores of Lake Erie.
This easy and scenic loop trail extends for 1.2 miles through Phillip J. Huber Park in Troy. When you stop by, you’ll notice that the trail is close to a highway, but the sense of peace that abounds throughout seems to overcome the park’s bustling location. In fact, you might even spot a few deer or other gorgeous animals during your walk here.
We’ve spoken highly of Nichols Arboretum, also known as The Arb, in past articles - and it’s easy to understand why. This brilliant outdoor attraction in Ann Arbor is overflowing with trails, Huron River access, greenery, and more. It’s especially magical during the spring and summer, when flowers bloom throughout its gardens and the river flows with even more brilliance than usual.
Want to enjoy a spring hike without venturing outside the city limits of Detroit? Blue Heron Lagoon Trail certainly fits the bill, offering visitors the chance to appreciate a 2.2-mile loop on Belle Isle and experience a historic lighthouse. As you meander along, you’ll catch glimpses of Blue Heron Lagoon itself, the Detroit River, and the city skyline in the distance.
Make the short drive to Rochester Hills for a straightforward walk along this mile-long gem, which remains open all year and consists of a single loop. During your time at Innovation Hills Park, you’ll spot everything from Clinton River frontage to towering trees to deer and birds. If fresh air is what you’re after, you’ve certainly come to the right place.
We’ll round out our list with another treasure within the city limits: Dequindre Cut Greenway. This 2-mile pathway in the heart of the city, which follows the trail of the former Grand Trunk Western Railroad, is perfect for walking, biking, rollerblading, jogging, and more. Along the way, you’ll encounter everything from unique public art to grassy spaces that are perfect for a quick picnic lunch. Does it get much better?
Are there any other awesome springtime hiking or walking destinations in Metro Detroit that we should have included on this list? We would love to hear from you, so be sure to share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another must-explore local trail by filling out our nomination form here.
Can’t get enough of the great outdoors? Be sure to read about this nature-surrounded town near Detroit.
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Address: Rouge Park Dr, Detroit, MI 48239, USA
Address: Nichols Arboretum, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
Address: Detroit Riverwalk, Detroit, MI, USA
Address: Douglas Evans Nature Preserve, 31845 Evergreen Rd, Beverly Hills, MI 48025, USA
Address: Blue Heron Lagoon Trail, 198 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Address: 32481 W Jefferson Ave, Brownstown Charter Twp, MI 48173, USA
Address: 3500 Civic Center Dr, Troy, MI 48084, USA
Address: Innovation Hills, 2800 W Hamlin Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48309, USA
Address: Dequindre Cut Greenway, Detroit, MI 48207, USA