According to Strava: 5 Most Popular Trails for Nordic Skiing near Detroit

The powder is BACK in Detroit, inspiring the multitude of our resident Strava athletes to clip into their skis and hit the trails! Wondering where they might be heading? In this first installment of our new #AccordingtoStrava series, we highlight the "5 Most Popular Trails for Nordic Skiing near Detroit" per Strava data - as well as recommended gear and tips for new skiers!

In a world where the term "social media" is increasingly synonymous with the term "brain rot," one platform continues to rise above the rest. And not just in terms of posted elevation gain.

Strava - the not-so-secret obsession of adventure athletes, gym rats, and casual dog walkers alike - has taken the digital fitness landscape by storm. Driven largely by the post-Covid wellness boom and its community-driven features, the leading social and tracking platform for endurance and outdoor sports has grown from roughly 40 million users in 2019 to over 150 million by the end of 2025. In financial terms, Strava enjoys close to $500 million in annual recurring revenue and is eying a potential initial public offering for existing shareholders.

And yes, Strava has even informally waded into the "dating app genre" for those seeking alcohol-free and fitness-focused dating.

While all of those data points are both fascinating and encouraging, none of those facts alone fuels Expedition Detroit's fascination with the app. For our team, it's actually one very simple aspect of Strava that consistently inspires our long runs, prompts our research, and sets our adventure senses ablaze:

The Strava heat map.

Yes. That's it. That one feature which maps not only the location and frequency of your adventures, but also the global Strava community across several genres of adventure sports. For example, check out this heat up of nordic skiing in the, well, nordic countries:

Heat map of nordic skiing activity in southern Norway and Sweden

Fascinating, right?! Well, at least we think so. But beyond fueling our adventure wanderlust and map obsession, studying the Detroit region's global heat map regarding different recreational pursuits provides invaluable insights into where our resident adventure athletes are exploring. Especially the "next generation" of post-Covid athletes that comprise the majority of Strava's rapidly-expanding community.

Now that you're a Strava expert, we'd like to formally introduce a heat map-inspired new series from Expedition Detroit: "According to Strava." Each installation will showcase the 5 most popular destinations for certain recreational activities based on current Strava data, starting with these "5 Most Popular Trails for Nordic Skiing near Detroit."

If you're a nordice/cross-country skier looking for more trail inspo, you've found the right article.

If you're single and looking for the best destinations to meet a fitness-minded partner, then you've definitely found the right series.

Kudos to you, Detroit. Let's get into it.

GET OUT THERE: 5 Best Trails for Nordic Skiing Near Detroit

The Detroit region is no stranger to world-class nordic skiing trails. In fact, most - if not all - of our Michigan State, Huron-Clinton Metropark, and regional parks feature top-tier nordic skiing (also referred to as cross-country skiing) trails near Detroit. Our state's long winters, scenic forests, rolling hills, and notable demographics with Scandinavian ancestry lend itself to our winters' favorite pastime.

That being said, not all nordic skiing trails near Detroit are created equal when it comes to Strava users. Blame it on our recent stretch of warm winters or regional prioritization of other recreational activities, but our region's nordic skiing heat map is significantly more condensed than other sports like running, cycling, or hiking.

On the positive side, that makes our job notably easier since the "hot spots" shine brighter than the beacons of Minas Tirith.

If you're ready to start reeling in the "kudos" on your nordic skiing adventures for Winter 2026, then here are the Detroit region's top 5 most popular trails for nordic skiing near Detroit (feat. corresponding AllTrails maps):

5.  HUDSON MILLS CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING TRAIL  |  Hudson Mills Metropark  |  Dexter, MI

Distance: 3.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 135 ft.

Route Type: Loop(s)

Trail Rating: Moderate

Spoiler alert: the Huron-Clinton Metroparks are, without a doubt, the go-to destinations within the Detroit region for Strava's resident nordic skiers. Our "Top 5" list kicks off at Dexter's Hudson Mills Metropark, where the park's investment in maintaining a season "cross-country skiing trail" along its Main Loop and Rapids View Loop trails has clearly accomplished its mission in attracting nordic skiers to the metropark.

4.  SPRINGLAKE, TED GRAY, AND LAKESHORE LOOP TRAIL  |  Independence Oaks County Park  |  Village of Clarkston, MI

Distance: 3.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 252 ft.

Route Type: Loop

Trail Rating: Moderate

Making its grand Expedition Detroit debut - and the only non-Metropark on this list - is Independence Oaks County Park! While this Oakland County Park regularly makes lists of "Best Hiking Trails in Michigan" for its celebrated Springlake Trail, both that trail and its larger system have also attracted nordic skiers on Strava to its glistening lakeside views and rolling, forested terrain. The trail's heart-racing climbs, notable descents, and manageable 5K distance make the loop an idllic experience for nordic skiers of all experience levels.

3.  FOX TRAIL AND CHICADEE LOOP TO WILDWING LOOP TRAILS  |  Kensington Metropark  |  Milford Township, MI

Distance: 4.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 206 ft.

Route Type: Loop

Trail Rating: Moderate

With its abundance of 4,481 acres of wooded, rolling terrain - all set against the backdrop of stunning Kent Lake - the recreational crown jewel that is Kensington Metropark was bound to be popular with the Detroit region's nordic skiers. While the heat map pictured clearly shows that the entirety of the Metropark's natural trail system is popular for nordic skiing, the park has more than 12 miles of trails that are specifically designated for nordic skiing in the winter months. We've highlighted Kensington's beloved "Fox Trail and Chicadee Loop to Wildwing Loop" interconnected trails as our recommended nordic skiing route.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TRAIL

2.  WEST BRANCH LOOP TRAIL  |  Stony Creek Metropark  | Rochester, MI

Distance: 4.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 203 ft.

Route Type: Loop

Trail Rating: Moderate

While Kensington may have a slight edge in acreage over Stony Creek Metropark, Stony Creek's 4,435 scenic acres do appear to attract slightly more nordic skiers to its rugged western trails! Stony Creek boasts over 13 miles of marked and groomed traditional nordic skiing trails, covering level to hilly terrain. The Metropark's famous mountain bike trails are open to both nordic skiing and snowshoeing, while the snow-glazed trails on the Stony Creek Metropark Golf Course are exclusively for nordic/cross-country skiing. There is no hiking or snowshoeing allowed on the nordic-specific ski trails.

1.  BEECH ALLEY AND MALTBY VISTA LOOP TRAILS  |  Huron Meadows Metropark  |  Brighton, MI

Distance: 5.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 216 ft.

Route Type: Loop

Trail Rating: Easy

Ladies and gentlemen, this is it: the undisputed, premiere destination for nordic skiing in Southeast Michigan. As Strava data clearly supports, Huron Meadows Metropark is THE most popular destination for nordic skiing near Detroit!

Why is the metropark so popular? Well, Huron Meadows is one of just a few parks in Southeast Michigan that offers skate-style and classically groomed nordic ski trails. Skiers can choose from more than 15 miles of trails groomed for tracked, classic skiing over easy to moderate terrain, or more than 11 miles of trails groomed for skate-style skiing on moderate terrain with rolling hills.

Huron Meadows also showcases the following:

• Three high efficiency snow guns and puts snow down on a 2.4km loop.

• The main loop is lit until 8:00pm each night.

• The only nordic skiing destination in southern Michigan where skate-skiing gear can be rented.

• Home of Frosty Fest: the "Frosty Freestyle and Krazy Klassic" cross-country ski races.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR METROPARKS

GEAR UP: Nordic Skiing 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, as I mentioned before, nordic skiing is entirely new to the Expedition Detroit platform. As such, if you are planning on tapping into nordic skiing near Detroit this winter for the first time, then guess what - we're right there along with you. This article is meant exactly for you, because we're living and experiencing cross-country skiing right alongside you.

Since we just purchased our first nordic skiing gear ever, this article provides our dollar-backed, top-of-market selections for the best nordic skiing duds currently being offered. Let's get into it.

Photo courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc.

The Essentials: Nordic Skis, Boots, and Poles

Let's start with one massive positive about nordic skiing near Detroit. The sport is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than downhill resort or backcountry skiing, both in terms of the average cost of equipment and accessibility (i.e., no lift tickets). All that's really required is a moderate upfront investment in "The Essentials" of skis, boots, and poles; after that, you can either utilize typical winter recreational clothing that you already own or splurge to look like a Norwegian olympian on the trails.

NORDIC SKIS: Spider 62 Crown Xtralite Cross-Country Skis with TURNAMIC Bindings

Brand: Fischer

Cost: $369

Skiing Style: Classic Nordic

Technical Features:

• Wood cores utilize lightweight air-channeled wood for a lively feel and durable construction.

• Progressive-depth Offtrack Crown pattern provides optimal grip and glide when touring and climbing in a wide range of snow conditions

• TURNAMIC bindings are compatible with TURNAMIC, NNN® and Prolink® touring and race boot soles.

PURCHASE HERE

NORDIC BOOTS: XC 2 Cross-Country Ski Boots

Brand: Rossignol

Cost: $159.95

Skiing Style: Classic Nordic

Technical Features:

• Tall cuffs and zip-up lace covers seal out snow, while foam linings wrap your feet for warmth.

• Touring-specific soles and lateral heel supports provide stability for all-around trail skiing.

• Touring soles feature flexible central inserts that reinforce comfort without reducing overall stiffness and torsional rigidity, which add stability while skiing.

• Thermo-adjustable liners can be heat-molded around your feet for a customized fit and comfort.

PURCHASE HERE

POLES: Focus Nordic Cross-Country Ski Poles

Brand: Swix

Cost: $28

Skiing Style: Classic Nordic or Cross-Country Skiing

Technical Features:

• Cylindrical aluminum shafts provide added strength.

• Classic touring handles have adjustable straps.

• Medium/large universal baskets work well in and out of groomed tracks.

• Weight: shaft weight only: 110 g per meter; overall weight varies by size

• Sold as a pair.

PURCHASE HERE

For more details on correct nordic ski equipment sizing, check out this excellent sizing guide from our affiliate partner REI.

Note that this gear only covers "Classic Nordic Skiing" as opposed to other variations, such as "Skate Skiing." This is intentional since classic cross-country skiing represents the more accessible and predominant form of skiing across the Detroit region's vast trail system. Classic nordic skiing involves a straight-line stride called either a "diagonal stride" or "kick and glide," while skate skiing's movements look like a speed skater on ice and utilize a slimmer, shorter ski.

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.

Here's a refresher on layering:

• Base Layer ("underwear layer"): Arguably the most important layer; the goal is to wick sweat off your skin. For nordic skiing 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 skiers 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. Nordic ski pants typically have a windproof material in the front and breathable, stretchy material in back.

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.

Cuffed Beanie

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Snow-covered banks of the Huron River at Proud Lake Recreation Area

HIT THE TRAILS: Nordic Skiing Tips for Beginners

Before signing off on this article, we wanted to close by sharing the following nordic skiing etiquette, safety tips, and best practices as prepared by the talented team at REI.

Each of these best practices are key not only for enjoying your time traversing the Detroit region's celebrated trails, but also mitigating your exposure to serious health risks like injury, frostbite and hypothermia:

• PROACTIVELY STAY WARM. Don't wait to adjust layers if you're getting cold, especially in your extremities. Also adjust layers if you're sweating a lot because excess moisture can chill you. It's wise to bring hand warmers, foot warmers, and a vacuum bottle filled with a warm beverage.

• DON'T TRY TO TOUGH IT OUT. If you feel your fingers or toes getting cold, stop and take the time to check on them and warm them up. Placing cold fingers in your armpits or cold toes on a partner’s warm stomach are good ways to warm up. Using hand warmer and toe warmer packets is also effective.

• FALL SOFTLY. Even expert skiers take the occasional tumble. If possible, though, avoid sticking out your poles or wrists when you fall because that increases the chances of injury or damage to gear. Rolling sideways is generally a good tactic, though that assumes you have enough control to do so, and that you don't roll into a tree or other hazard.

• START ON EASY TRAILS. Most nordic skiing trail systems follow standard rating designations: green for beginner, blue for intermediate, and black for expert. Avoid blue or black trails at first, because you'll be more likely to fall on them, which isn't a great outcome for you, nor for the faster, more experienced skiers who use those trails and who will have to ski around you.

• YIELD THE RIGHT OF WAY. Go the correct direction on any trail marked as a one-way route. On two-way trails, uphill skiers yield to downhill skiers (who have less control). If you're slow, keep an eye out for faster skiers overtaking you and move to the side if that simplifies their skiing past. If you're fast, alert slower skiers as you approach and, if possible, try to ski around so they don't have to move aside.

• POLES AREN'T BRAKES. Never stick your poles out ahead of you to slow down because that can cause injury or break your poles. To slow down when skiing on flat terrain (where you should start out as a beginner), simply coast to a stop.

• SHUFFLE AND GLIDE. Once your skis are on, start to move with a slow shuffle down the tracks (like a slow walk). Then, after two shuffles, shift and center your weight on the front ski, gliding for a short distance. Continue ahead, using a shuffle, shuffle, glide cadence. This is the basic kick-and-glide motion of nordic skiing.

Shuffle & Glide; video courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc.

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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 nordic skiing near Detroit.