Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Snowshoeing Near Detroit
- Dan Cooke
- 18 hours ago
- 8 min read
FINALLY - a TRUE DETROIT WINTER is BACK, complete with deep powder and ideal conditions for snowshoeing. Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for venturing into snowshoeing near Detroit!
"Dude - what even is snowshoeing?"
I heard that question, give or take a few variations, several times within a 48 hour period. I had just led Expedition Detroit's first ever guided snowshoe tour for two first-timers, so I naturally couldn't pass up any opportunity to talk about that experience and how much fun before the tour participants and I had.
As those questions kept pouring in, I quickly realized that snowshoeing across the Detroit region wasn't as prolific as I thought it might be. Our latest string of warm winters certainly hasn't helped, given that effective snowshoeing conditions typically require at least 6 inches of snow accumulation. The snow gods simply haven't blessed the Detroit region enough for this sport to catch on.
Which is truly a shame given our vast outdoor amenities that snowshoes are perfect for unlocking.
When I think of the utility - and joy - of snowshoeing, I think back to the Winter of 2008-09. We were on a family vacation to Park City, Utah, and my brother had an injury that prevented him from snowboarding. But, for some reason, he was cleared for other activities like snowshoeing, something we as a family had never done before.
My parents booked a tour that transported us deep into the Wasatch National Forest. We each donned snowshoes for the first time, laughing at each other as our legs adjusted to the awkward footing at the trailhead.
Then we took our first steps into deep powder, backcountry conditions - and a sensation of invincibility set in. Snowshoes allow you to travel across snow-covered terrain without sinking or struggling via "flotation," meaning snowshoes spread your weight evenly over a large, flat surface area.
We were able to trek efficiently through several feet of fresh snow that would've otherwise swallowed us whole. A whole new recreational genre had been unlocked.
If snowshoeing is truly novel to our region, then it's Expedition Detroit's pleasure to trek deeply into the informational "powder"of snowshoeing near Detroit. This "Ultimate Guide to Snowshoeing near Detroit" outlines the best gear, trails, tips, and opportunities for guided snowshoe tours (including rentals) near Detroit!
GEAR UP: Snowshoe Gear Essentials
One of our core principles includes writing every Expedition Detroit article from a place of authenticity. "If you haven't lived it, then don't write about it," which is our shorthand iteration of the Henry David Thoreau quote "How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live."
This expectant level of authenticity is especially relevant here since snowshoeing is relatively new to the Expedition Detroit platform. Now that Winter 2025-26 has FINALLY brought back consistent powder to the Detroit region, we've spent the last few weeks donning our snowshoes and trekking through both new backcountry lines and classic hiking trails. We even led our inaugural guided snowshoe tour at Maybury State Park earlier this month!
Here are Expedition Detroit's dollar-backed, top-of-market selections for the best snowshoeing gear currently on the market. Let's get into it.
The Essentials: Snowshoes and Poles
One of the most beautiful aspects of snowshoeing is its simplicity. All that's really required for jumpstarting your backcountry adventures is a moderate upfront investment in "The Essentials" of snowshoes and poles; after that, you can either utilize typical winter recreational clothing that you already own or splurge to look like a professional on the trails.
SNOWSHOES: Evo Trail Snowshoes
Brand: MSR
Cost: $169.95
Technical Features:
ParaGlide bindings feature 2 roller buckles and toe stops that make placing your feet and securing and removing straps simple and intuitive—even while wearing gloves.
Stretch mesh bindings comfortably hug your feet with no pressure points and fit nearly any footwear.
Steel traction rails and brake bars molded into the decks provide secure and lasting grip.
Molded plastic decks withstand harsh conditions.
Max recommended load with tails (not included): 250 lbs.
POLES: Trail Back Trekking Poles
Brand: Black Diamond
Cost: $99.95
Technical Features:
Comfortable dual-density EVA foam grips with extensions allow for multiple grip options so you can switch up your hand positions on the move.
Adjustable webbing straps for added comfort and security.
Aluminum construction is lightweight and durable for dedicated trail use.
FlickLock technology allows for quick adjustability on the trail and makes it easy to pack the poles away when necessary.
3-section design is easy to stow
Includes 1 set of trekking baskets and 1 set of snow baskets.
Sold as a pair.
Staying Warm: Layered Clothing
As the famous Norwegian saying goes, "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." For winter weather, you should always dress in layers, especially for the cooler-to-freezing temperatures that fluctuate in the Detroit region during the winter.
Base Layer ("underwear layer"): Arguably the most important layer; the goal is to wick sweat off your skin. For snowshoeing near Detroit, midweight long underwear is a good choice for all-around use. Lightweight is best for mild conditions and heavyweight for below-freezing temps. Look for fabrics like polyester or wool that wick perspiration away from your skin and dry quickly.
Middle Layer ("insulating layer"): Should retain body heat to protect you from the cold. In general, thicker/puffier equals warmer. For your upper body, most snowshoers prefer a puffy down or synthetic insulated jacket. If you prefer fleece, make sure your jacket is heavyweight fleece.
Outer Layer ("shell layer"): Largely weather-dependent; shields you from wind and rain and provides extra insulation. In winter, it is important to have a fully waterproof jacket rather than merely water resistant. However, these also need to be breathable so that perspiration wicked away by your base layer can escape. Snowshoeing pants typically have breathable, wind- and water-resistant performance material.
You should also add in a few "accessory items" to your winter clothing kit. These include a basic wool or synthetic beanie, insulated gloves with waterproof/breathable shells, glasses or googles, and non-cotton socks. With regard to socks, extra-thick pairs will not keep your feet warm if your boots become too tight.
GET OUT THERE: 3 Most Popular Trails for Snowshoeing Near Detroit
As our resident outdoor enthusiasts know, you never experience the same trail twice in Metro Detroit. Beyond the company that you share the trail with and sights encountered, our region's four seasons' worth of shifting trail conditions means that you'll never run out of creative ways of enjoy Detroit's outdoors. Even in just winter, the ever-changing snow levels equate to infinite combinations of snow-hiking, cross-country skiing, and - for the really deep, thick powder - snowshoeing.
If you're ready to ramp up your snowshoeing adventures for Winter 2025-26, then here are the Detroit region's top 3 trails for snowshoeing near Detroit (according to AllTrails):
1. SILVER LAKE TRAIL | Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney, MI
Distance: 2.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 190 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Pinckney Recreation Area is where generations of Detroiters have fallen in love with some of our region's wildest trails and backcountry experiences. While that may sound intimindating, the stunningly beautiful Silver Lake Trail is one of the park's most beloved and beginner-friendly trails - especially for a new experience like snowshoeing near Detroit. This forested loop through the heart of Pinckney Rec winds through a beautiful forest filled with abundant wildlife. The route offers views of three lakes and passes some tranquil ponds. Several climbs along the way make for a great workout - especially on snowshoes!
EXPLORE THE SILVER LAKE TRAIL YEAR-ROUND WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT
2. VALLEY, RIVER, AND MEADOW TRAIL LOOP | Heritage Park | Farmington Hills, MI
Distance: 2.1 Miles
Elevation Gain: 131 ft.
Route Type: Lollipop loop
Nestled in the heart of Metro Detroit is one of our region's top destinations for snowshoeing near Detroit: Farmington Hills' 211 acre "Heritage Park," including its celebrated 4.5 mile trail network. More specifically, the forested and wildlife-abundant "Valley, River, and Meadow Trail Loop" is heralded as a top destination for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The peaceful trail explores a large part of Heritage Park as it winds through natural paths, crosses the Upper River Rouge, and meanders through beautiful woods.
3. BLUE, WHITE, AND ORANGE LOOP TRAILS | Bald Mountain State Recreation Area | Orion Township, MI
Distance: 6.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 452 ft.
Route Type: Connected Loops
In 1983, the DNR crew stationed at Bald Mountain State Recreation Area headed out into its northern woods with one objective: attract winter recreational enthusiasts. While Bald Mountain's initial trail plans were geared towards cross-country skiing, the extensive trail network has also attracted throngs of snowshoeing enthusiasts - especially during deep powder conditions that are idyllic for snowshoeing. Fast-forward to winter 2025-26, the DNR's efforts created one of the most sought-after trail networks in the entire state - Bald Mountain's famous Blue, White, and Orange Loops.
HIT THE TRAILS: Guided Snowshoe Tours near Detroit
If you've reached this point of the article, then congrats: you're not only near the end, BUT snowshoeing is DEFINITELY in your future for this upcoming winter!
A core part the Expedition Detroit mission is to go beyond simply educating our readers about the world-class outdoor opportunities found within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. Our top-rated guided trips serves the purpose of connecting the dots between education and experience, especially for anyone taking their first steps into the evergreen joy of a life lived in the outdoors.
Ready to lace up snowshoes this season?? Check out our three "Guided Snowshoe Tour" offerings for Winter 2025-26. Each tour provides an opportunity to rent snowshoes and poles - or feel free to bring your own!
THE CLASSIC ROUTE: Maybury State Park Guided Snowshoe Tour
Northville, Michigan | Best for beginners
This introductory-level guided snowshoe tour traverses Maybury State Park's beloved main "Hiking Trail Loop"! Setting off from the 8 Mile Road trailhead, this 3.1 mile trip crosses the park's "wooded highlands," wildlife-dense marshlands, the picturesque Maybury Pond, and uncover the ruins of the Maybury Sanatorium.
THE SCENIC ROUTE: Proud Lake State Recreation Area Guided Snowshoe Tour
Commerce Township, Michigan | Enjoyable for all skill levels
This moderate-level snowshoe tour on the "Expedition Loop Trail" offers an engaging 3.1-mile loop along the southern bank of the Huron River, through towering pines, and around Proud Lake's stunning central marsh. Your highlight-reel adventure will provide plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, capture breathtaking photos, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of one of southeast Michigan's most beloved wetland habitats. With an easy trail rating and minimal elevation gain, it's perfect for all skill levels!
THE ADVENTURE ROUTE: Highland State Recreation Area "Mount Kanzer" Guided Snowshoe Tour
Milford Township, Michigan | Best for intermediate and experienced snowshoers
This moderate-level guided snowshoe tour leads intrepid adventurers to the highest of Highland's three towering moraines: Mount Kanzer, standing tall at an elevation of 1,160 feet. Starting at the southernmost trailhead of Highland - just north of Downtown Milford off of Weaver Road - the trail takes a southern approach to Mount Kanzer following the rolling "Milford Connector Trail." Once across Cooley Lake Road, the trail loops around Highland's southern marshlands until summiting Mount Kanzer just past the mid-way mark. Don't forget to stay on the lookout for abundant wildlife as you complete your summit push!
This article contains affiliate links that align with Expedition Detroit's Disclosures Policy. This article does not constitute an endorsement by Expedition Detroit of any of the featured equipment or destinations for snowshoeing near Detroit.