Whether it’s a sunny 80 degrees or sub-zero and snowy outside, nothing beats a fresh air adventure here in Metro Detroit. While life in the big city comes with its fair share of stress, it also offers endless opportunities to sneak away for a bit of natural exploration. When you’re ready to embrace your love for the great outdoors, check out these eight fantastic natural attractions in and around the Motor City.

1. Blue Heron Lagoon (Belle Isle, Detroit)

This marvelous body of water on Detroit’s Belle Isle is just as enchanting as it sounds, offering visitors the opportunity to gaze at sparkling shores while enjoying surrounding greenery and flora. The lagoon itself is connected to the Detroit River via a small waterway and features a 2.2-mile trail with unbeatable views. If you’d like to learn more, be sure to read our feature article about Blue Heron Lagoon here.

2. Crosswinds Marsh Park (27600 Haggerty Road, New Boston)

There are plenty of hiking and walking options in and around Detroit, but one park stands out above the rest. Crosswinds Marsh features 1,000 breathtaking acres and boardwalks galore. While the marsh itself is manmade, the park has transformed into a nature lover’s paradise, complete with seemingly endless greenery and gorgeous wildlife. Details can be found by reading our previous piece.

3. LeFurge Woods Nature Preserve (2452 N Prospect Road, Superior Charter Twp)

Tucked away just 40 minutes by car from Detroit, this nature preserve is the serene spot you’ve been searching for. As you take a walk through the park’s 325 stunning acres, you’ll quickly feel your stress melting away. From birds to coyotes, guests at the preserve have spotted all sorts of creatures among the natural setting, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Find out more by checking out our previous article.

4. Belle Isle Beach (Belle Isle, Detroit)

You might not associate the Motor City with beachfront fun, but you’re wrong! There’s plenty of room to appreciate the waterfront when warm weather rolls around, and every Detroiter should visit Belle Isle Beach at least once. Whether you come here to sunbathe, take a dip in the river, or simply enjoy a bit of time outdoors, you might just forget you’re in Detroit. Details can be found by clicking here.

5. West Bloomfield Nature Preserve (W Bloomfield Trail, West Bloomfield Township)

If you’re a total sucker for wildflowers, look no further than the trails at West Bloomfield Nature Preserve, which come to life during the spring and summer months with colorful blooms galore. Watch for trillium and other blossoms as you explore this 162-acre dreamland. It’s easy to immerse yourself in a sense of serenity at this unforgettable preserve, which we featured in a previous piece here.

6. The Detroit Riverwalk (Detroit)

If you live in the Motor City, you’ve undoubtedly taken a stroll along the shores of the Detroit River. This pathway alongside the water extends for 3.5 miles in total, offering access to gems like Milliken State Park and Harbor. As you walk, take time to enjoy skyline views and boats following their route along our most famous waterway. To read more, check out our article here.

7. Algonac State Park (8970 River Road, Clay Twp.)

Camping enthusiasts will certainly want to check out Algonac State Park, an awesome option within driving distance of Detroit that allows guests to lodge overnight all year long. In addition to two separate campgrounds, Algonac State Park offers frontage along the St. Clair River and endless opportunities to watch freighters float by. If you’d like to find out details, read our previous feature article here.

8. Bloomer Park (345 John R Road, Rochester)

Looking for the perfect place to get some exercise while basking in the many wonders of nature? You’ll adore Bloomer Park, a Rochester Hills gem that features fun for the whole family. There’s greenery and foliage galore that’s best appreciated while embarking on the park’s staircase hike, which takes visitors up the hillside. Younger visitors can burn off a bit of energy at the on-site playground. Want to know more about Bloomer Park? Be sure to read our previous article by clicking here.

Did any of your favorite outdoor spots make our list? We always love to hear from you, so share your most memorable nature experiences in Metro Detroit with us by leaving a Facebook comment. If you’d like to recommend a natural destination that didn’t make the cut, fill out our nomination form here.

For more outdoor excitement, check out this cottage among nature near Detroit.