If you’re on the lookout for a day trip from Detroit that will take you to an otherworldly attraction, read on. There are plenty of unique spots to explore in and around the city itself, but a manageable jaunt outside Detroit will sweep you away to a whole new realm of natural beauty and enchantment. The next time you’re seeking a dose of fresh air and pure wonder, hop in the car and make your way to these utterly original rock formations near Detroit.

Fitzgerald Park is located along Fitzgerald Park Drive in the city of Grand Ledge. This outdoor treasure can be reached by car from Detroit in about 90 minutes, so we suggest setting aside several hours for your trip.

While the park is home to plenty of greenery and open space, it’s perhaps most well-known for housing the Ledges: rocky outcroppings that appear along the Grand River. This is anything but an ordinary locale.

The Ledges are a dreamy destination for those who appreciate history and nature alike, as these ancient formations look like something from another planet. Be sure to bring along your camera when you visit.

Made of sandstone, estimates place the Ledges at approximately 300 million years old. It’s almost impossible to grasp the age of these beautiful formations, which extend for nearly five miles in all.

Fitzgerald Park offers a trailway with access to the Ledges, so lace up your shoes and start strolling. Some sections stretch upward to reach a whopping 60 feet above the riverbed below – talk about impressive.

There is a small fee to enter Fitzgerald Park, but the adventures you’ll have here are priceless. In addition to the Ledges, visitors can check out other trails, playgrounds, canoe and kayak launches, and much more.

If you’d prefer to check out another local spot, you’ll be glad to learn that the Ledges are also accessible via nearby Oak Park and Lincoln Brick Park. No matter where you see them, you’ll be grateful you stopped by.

As you make plans for your next exciting excursion from the Motor City, keep Fitzgerald Park and its ancient rock formations in mind. Explorers of all ages will find themselves fascinated by this natural treasure.

Have you made the journey to Grand Ledge to experience these stunning rock formations near Detroit? What were your impressions of the Ledges? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience, so share your thoughts in the Facebook comments or recommend another great day trip from Detroit by completing our official nomination form.

Looking for another way to appreciate nature? Be sure to read about this stunning overlook park near Detroit.