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Welcome to Pinckney State Recreation Area in Pinckney, Michigan! NEW FOR SUMMER 2025! This introductory-level guided hike explores one of Pinckney Recreation Area's most beloved and beginner-friendly trails: the Silver Lake Trail! This forested loop through the heart of the park 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. Remember to bring bug spray if you're visiting in spring or summer! PERFECT TRAIL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Children under the age of 10 ALWAYS hike for free. MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Main trailhead parking lot at Silver Lake Day Use Area (northernmost trailhead) Trail length: 2.6 miles Trip duration: 1 hour 15 minutes Elevation Gain: 190 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Silver Lake trailhead parking lot NOTE: Fall colors are most prominent in Mid-October. Foliage conditions are never guaranteed and may be affected by natural conditions outside of Expedition Detroit's control.

Welcome to Brighton Recreation Area in Brighton, Michigan! This moderate-level guided hike explores the most consistently top ranked trail in the entire Detroit region: the bucket-list worthy Penosha Trail! This famous loop, described as a "quintessential Michigan hike," has earned its acclaim through the trail's dramatic ridges, mature forests, wildlife-teeming wetlands, and seasonal wildflowers. Perfect for hikers looking for an accessible and perfectly-challenging day hike, the Penosha Trail certainly will become one of your go-to destinations for years to come! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Bishop Lake trailhead parking lot Trail length: 4.9 miles Elevation Gain: 393 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at Bishop Lake trailhead CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY SPOTLIGHT ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-the-penosha-trail

Welcome to Holly State Recreation Area in Holly, Michigan! This introductory-level guided hike will traverse Holly's stunning "Wildwood and Valley Lake" Trail. Setting off from the Wildwood and Valley Lake Trail trailhead (directly north of Wildwood Lake before the bridge), this 2.5 mile hike encircles the gentle waters, mature oak forests, and glistening vistas of Holly's southernmost lakes. This lakeside loop provides non-stop views of the wildlife, foliage, and paddlers enjoying one of the crown jewels of Holly Recreation Area's wild places. Come explore one of Holly's most beloved trails and kick-off your adventure into the world of hiking! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: "Wildwood and Valley Lakes Trail" parking lot south of McGinnis Road (follow signs for "Lakeshore Trail") Elevation Gain: 95 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Wildwood and Valley Lake Trail trailhead parking lot. DIRECTIONS: Enter Holly Recreation Area from McGinnis Road by driving south into entrance marked "HOLLY RECREATION AREA HERON, VALLEY, WILDWOOD LAKES." Follow signage towards Wildwood Lake. Drive past "Overlook Picnic Area" to reach trailhead parking lot directly north of Wildwood Lake bridge (parking lot entrance will be on your right). The tour starts in front of the "LAKESHORE TRAIL" sign.

Don't let the heat fool you - October's cooler temperatures are coming, along with the vibrant foliage that will decorate our parks, trails, and waterways! Updated for Fall 2025, here are Expedition Detroit's 5 best fall hikes for experiencing peak colors this season. Happy hiking! Fellow trail enthusiasts and fall foliage aficionados, we have incredible news for you . In the words of the great Rafiki: "It is time." Well...it is almost time. While the original predictions for the arrival of peak fall colors in the Detroit area slated October 5th as the kick-off date, that ETA has since been pushed back to tomorrow, October 7th . We can all blame summer's sudden resurgence over the past week for the color delay. But hey, if that means that we'll get to enjoy peak fall conditions for an extra few days on the tail end of the season, then we'll take it. With fall's brightest and most vibrant days just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan your local outdoor getaways. Last year we zeroed in on the best paddling destinations along the Huron River for discovering the season's reflective colors. This year - and as requested by popular demand among our guided trip guests - we have trekked through mountains of research to curate a list of the best fall hikes for foliage hunters near Detroit. From generational favorites to hiding-in-plain-sight gems, we attempted the impossible ( and possibly sacrilegious ) by whittling down the wealth of our region's forested destinations into an exclusive "Top 5" list. Not exactly an easy feat. Fortunately for all of us, however, each of these five trails contain the variety of trees, landscapes, and contrasting elements that you would expect from any instagram-worthy fall outing. Better yet, each of these trails also entail a damn good hike - outdoor experiences worthy of your exploration any time of the year, but especially during fall's most vivid days. So...lace up your hiking boots and get your camera ready . Mother Nature's peak colors are ready to pop off, and you'll capture all of the season's most unforgettable moments on these five best fall hikes near Detroit . 1. Pinckney State Recreation Area | Crooked Lake Trail Distance : 4.4 miles Elevation Gain : 324 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Route Orientation : Loop In a world as divided as ours, isn't it a breath of fresh air when we can all agree on something? In Detroit's outdoor world, one of those "somethings" includes unanimous love for the Crooked Lake Trail at Pinckney State Recreation Area - especially during the fall . Consistently praised as one of the best trails in the entire state , the Crooked Lake Trail specializes in picturesque views of fall colors around Crooked and Pickerel Lakes. In the words of Pure Michigan , " Pinckney’s untouched terrain is perfect for a stroll amid spectacular fall foliage. " Speaking personally rather than strictly on behalf of Expedition Detroit , the Crooked Lake Trail is my single favorite trail in the entire Detroit area. This beloved loop has played host to several of my past trail races , brainstorming business meetings, day-hike dates, and the all-important solitary outings just to clear out the noise of modern life . I absolutely love this trail - and I have no doubt that you will too after exploring it under peak fall colors . EXPLORE PINCKNEY RECREATION AREA WITH US THIS FALL! Photo courtesy of @jamie_eliz (Instagram) 2. Belle Isle Park | Belle Isle Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Trail Distance : 2.2 miles Elevation Gain : 22 feet Trail Rating : Easy Route Orientation : Loop Detroit's Belle Isle Park represents Southeast Michigan's premiere destination for pairing urban views with miles of greenery and animated fall colors. Setting off from the Ralph Wilson Gateway, Belle Isle's easternmost Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Trail traverses the parks treelined southern shore, including stunning views of the Ontario coast, vibrant Detroit River, and industrial freighters passing by. The trail also passes by the stunning Belle Isle Lighthouse, Blue Heron Lagoon, and locally-named "Hipster Beach" - all of which become even more memorable when decorated with stunning fall foliage. EXPLORE BELLE ISLE PARK WITH US THIS FALL! 3. Maybury State Park | Maybury Hiking Loop Trail Distance : 3.1 miles Elevation Gain : 127 feet Trail Rating : Easy Route Orientation : Loop Golden leaves gently fall from all directions as you glance around you. Towering trees overhead and shimmering glimpses of a bright pond through the foliage may trick you into believe that you've miraculously transported to another world. Perhaps a realm in Middle Earth or Narnia, complete with frequent wildlife sightings right off of the trail. No, friends, you have ventured into a film location for the Lord of the Rings. You're actually in the very heart of the Detroit region at Maybury State Park . A destination which features idyllically gentle and rolling terrain for one of Metro Detroit's best fall hikes amidst peak fall foliage. A generational hometown getaway for Northville residents and out-of-town explorers alike. EXPLORE MAYBURY STATE PARK WITH US THIS FALL! 4. Kensington Metropark | Fox Trail and Chicadee Loop to Wildwing Trail Loop Distance : 4.4 miles Elevation Gain : 203 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Route Orientation : Loop Exploring the nature trails at Kensington Metropark under peak colors represents a favorite fall pastime for Detroit's outdoor enthusiasts . Readily accessible from I-96 and a stone's throw away from Downtown Milford , even a quick trip to Kensington Metropark truly entails a unique adventure for each visitor to the park's expansive Kent Lake shores, dense forests, Huron River banks , and rolling hills. Kensington also provides a home to an abundance of wildlife and waterfowl, which are very active especially along the Wildwing Nature Trail . 5. Seven Lakes State Park | Seven Lakes Loop Distance : 4.1 miles Elevation Gain : 177 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Route Orientation : Loop Last but certainly not least , Seven Lakes State Park's namesake Seven Lakes Loop Trail closes out our list as the northernmost destination for this year's best fall hikes! Located in Holly, Michigan, Seven Lakes' northern location means that not only will you escape most of the foliage-frenzied crowds that flock to the Detroit region's more central parks, but also that the leaves should start changing earlier than the other destinations included here. Enjoy the lighter crowds and vibrant colors as you trek through the trail's panoramic lakeside views, rolling ridge lines, and vividly-colorful forests. What are your outdoor recreation plans for this fall? Are there any destinations that we should highlight for the Expedition Detroit community? Let us know in the comments!

With legs still aching and post-race euphoria still beaming, Expedition Detroit's Founder shares his "point-of-view" experience running his first marathon at the "Best Marathon in America": the Detroit Free Press Marathon . " Yeah. Let's do this. " More than 26,000 aspiring runners had signed up for the weekend's main events, but for a few brief moments, only one runner approached the soaked starting line. With the early morning rain and wind pelting the eager group of runners waiting in Corral "D," this particular runner suddenly remembered this his bib had the letter "B" on it. The runners with "Cs" were just finishing their send off, strutting off into the storm. Roughly 50 yards of dark, wet, and empty Fort Street remained between this runner and the initiation of a dream that had captivated his athletic goals for 20+ years - and thwarted them for over a decade. He dipped under the Corral "D" rope, deeply breathing in the crisp, monsoon air. Each step slowly and carefully placed, resisting the inevitable adrenaline rush of starting a race. Especially this race. THE race. Finally the steps ran out. In ritualistic fashion, the runner raised his left wrist, pressed a button that signaled an all-too-familiar chime from his Garmin watch , and a timer commenced. At 7:15AM on October 19th, yours truly started running the 2025 Detroit Free Press Marathon - voted by USA Today as the "Best Marathon in America." This marathon was not only my first 26.2 mile venture, but also represented the culmination of decades of dreaming, planning, injuries, successes, and a library's worth of life lessons. My quads are still burning as I write these words, so the memories of the experience are as fresh as the leftover finish line bananas. If running a marathon remains unchecked on your bucket list, then this article is for you. If your goals have been chronically undercut by injuries or the unexpected twists and turns of life, then this article is especially for you. Without further delay, here is a first time marathoner's POV account of running the " Best Marathon in America ": the Detroit Free Press Marathon. Vice President Al Gore with his daughters at the 1997 Marine Corps Marathon The Journey to the Starting Line | October 1997 - 2025 There are near-infinite ways to train for a marathon, but one constant is that the race begins long, long before the starting line. Something, at some point, sparked the interest. No one has ever just woke up one day and blurted out " You know what, I want to pay to subject myself to a 26.2 mile death march! Yeah!! " No, there's always a specific moment where the dopamine of inspiration first hit. Mine occurred shortly after October 26th, 1997. The first thing that I remember is the texture of the red and yellow ribbon. " Check this out, Daniel ," Jerry Leachman , a life-long mentor and one of my best friend's dad, said to me as he extended a military dog tag-shaped medal towards me. " I just ran the Marine Corps Marathon. How cool is this? " The medal itself was indeed very cool, but the true reason of why that memory remains intact 28 years later is that it was the first time that I ever heard the word " marathon ." Or at least heard it in a way that registered something personal, tangible, and aspirational. That's owed a lot to the man who was holding the medal. Jerry was, and continues to be, one of my personal heroes. As a kid, I looked up to Jerry as an outdoorsman, athlete, and a man of great faith and personal conviction. The Leachman home was decorated in memorabilia from his years playing football at the University of Alabama under legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, trips all over the world, photos with U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries, and other accolades that captivated my young mind. Put differently, if someone with Jerry's caliber of character and experience was excited about running a marathon, then I wanted - no, needed - to do the same. At the starting line of the 2015 Novi Half Marathon That childhood dream laid dormant for 13 years, mostly due to prioritizing team sports like soccer, hockey, football, and lacrosse over running. Even during those years, however, there were inklings of interest in endurance sports. When my family first moved to Michigan in 2007, my older brother and I completed all of a week of cross-country running before quitting. He always had a sprinter's build and hated anything beyond a 5K. I hated the thought of running long miles through an unfamiliar community by myself, but I started to love the feeling of accomplishment of completing lengthy runs literally the day before we quit. Fast forward to May of 2015, I completed my first half marathon - the Novi Half Marathon - with a P.R. that still holds up and two shins riddled with micro-fractures. I swore off distance running after that event due to the pain of committing every training faux pas imaginable. More so than my legs, my mind needed 2 years to recover from the trauma of those mistakes before running - and falling in love with - the 2017 Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon . The journey from the 2017 Freep Marathon to this year's rendition alone provided a rollercoaster of running successes and failures. The high points included falling in love with competitive trail running and regularly winning age group awards in the 10K "sprint" and half marathon events. The low points all consisted of injuries and significant life turns that resulted in chronically-deferred full marathon entries - 3 to be exact. Here's a short list of the contributing factors that lead to missed marathons: Shin splints and corresponding micro-fractures Stress of law school and studying for the Michigan Bar Exam Extensor tendonitis Adjusting to new employment positions Starting a new business ( this one ) Navigating an unexpected divorce Training for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro Iliotibial ("IT") band syndrome FINALLY, in 2025, the well of limiting factors ran dry. With my 2024 deferred registration in place, I spent this year revitalizing my IT band issues , cross-training, and prioritizing the marathon as THE top priority for my training. In other words, every other athletic pursuit needed to serve the all-consuming purpose of marathon training. Distractions or detractions were strictly off limits. Marathon or bust. No more excuses. My point in providing this quarter century overview is to illustrate that every marathoner has a story. One does not simply arrive at the starting line; beyond the months of training, cultivating the ability to run 26.2 miles starts with inspiration and endures through all of the hurdles that life can manage to throw at you. That's why you'll see so many runners crying at the finish line. The race means so much more than any of us realize. Let's get to the race now. The Wam-Up Phase   |   Miles 1 - 3 Energy Level: Nervous anticipation Pacing Strategy: 10 minute/mile pace Actual Pace: 10:30 minute/mile pace With a decade+ of running experience behind me - and a dialed-in pre-race routine executed - all that was left to do was to start the race. The night before I had housed down enough chicken pad thai to feed a small village and managed to get ~6 hours of pre-race sleep. I leapt out of bed at 4:30 a.m. sharp to have a cup of tea, take a 5 minute cold plunge, eat a power breakfast of toast, peanut better, honey, banana, and chia seeds, and gulp down a small cup of coffee to "get the system moving" ( critical step of the pre-race routine ). I was on the road at 5:30 on the dot to get downtown with ample time. Parking was a madhouse, hence my arrival to the starting line with Corral "D" vs. my designated "B." Once positioned front and center in Corral D, fully-engulfed by both the rain and crowd, I glanced at my watch. The time read 7:14 a.m. I knew that my girlfriend and two friends would be arriving to the festivities in a few hours, braving the inclement weather for a few hours only to see me pass by in a matter of seconds. I was suddenly hit with the sentiment that every second spent standing there, waiting to start, was a second more that they would have to endure the poor conditions. " Screw that ,"I thought to myself. I ducked under the rope and started the steady march to the starting line. With the watch activated and the legs moving, I was off with thousands of my closest friends into the darkness of the early, eery morning. Most of the runners appeared visibly bothered by the rain and wind. Not I - I found the inhospitable conditions invigorating . The perfect recipe for pushing your body and mind well outside of its comfort zone . My game plan was to spend the first few miles "warming up," which for me meant a ~10 minute per mile pace. I intentionally shortened my stride and focused on not giving in to the cardinal sin of going too fast, too early. Mile 1 down Fort Street came in at a 10:12 pace, spent largely trying to avoid the massive puddles of rainwater pooling in the street. " Perfect ," I audibly said as the pace came through my headphones. Mile 2 hit towards the end of crossing the Ambassador Bridge, which is THE definitive highlight of the whole marathon experience. I kept my legs moving and mind focused while crossing the bridge, but you couldn't help but smile watching everyone's faces light up at how damn cool of an experience running across the bridge is. From the views to the fact that you're actively running into a new country, there's an innate rush to running over the Ambassador Bridge that makes it a bucket list-worthy experience. By the end of Mile 3, I was averaging a 10:30 minute pace. Notably more conservative than my initial game plan, so I hoped it would pay off in a few hours. In the meantime, I figured that the slower miles meant that I could feed the adrenaline rush that I had been ignoring for the past 30 minutes. Finally. And just in time for the roaring Windsor crowds. The Highlight Reel Phase   |   Miles 4 - 11 Energy Level: Unbridled enthusiasm Pacing Strategy: 9:30 minute/mile pace Actual Pace:  9:28 minute/mile pace If a runner tries to tell you that they weren't smiling the entirety of Windsor's Riverside Drive, then you've just outed a stone cold liar. Miles 4 through 6 occur entirely in Canada, and we whole-heartedly believe that those 3 miles are some of the most memorable of the entire experience. From the uniquely-Canadian signs, festive costumes, and unbeatable views of Downtown Detroit, running into Windsor provides enough of a reason to register for the full or international half marathon. But wait, there's more. Mile 7 starts the world's only "underwater mile" while running through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. While this experience tends to be more divisive on its enjoyability vs. the unanimous pleasure of crossing the Ambassador Bridge, the close proximity during the tunnel does provide a mile of solidarity where the course is only experienced by runners. I can't think of another world-class marathon that has such a moment of singularity shared only among your fellow participants. Emerging from the depths of the tunnel, you're met with an explosion of life along Jefferson Avenue, which continues until Mile 10 along Woodward Avenue. The area surrounding the exit of the tunnel is especially inundated with cheering fans, which for a runner provides an unmistakable sensation of immortality. Seriously. Running through thousands of cheering "fans" elicits an unmatched rush of endorphins. I was smiling ear-to-ear - and dropping my pace to a more familiar 9:06 minute - through Mile 11 in Midtown. Into the Unknown Phase   |   Miles 12 - 17 Energy Level: Full faith in the training regimen Pacing Strategy: 9:15 minute/mile pace Actual Pace:  8:55 minute/mile pace Two years ago, I ran the Detroit International Half Marathon for the 3rd time. For the aforementioned reasons, that is a race that I could run every year, for the rest of my life, and never tire of it. Over 80% of the race is simply a highlight reel of the very best of the international Detroit region's trails, sights, and community - and the last 20% is a downtown push to the finish line. A perfect course. But, when I hit the turnaround point just before Mile 11 of that race - where the marathoners keep left and the half marathoners deviate to the right - something felt wrong . Like I was shying away from the real challenge. Avoiding the inevitable. Taking the easy route. Let me be clear: nothing about a half marathon is easy. As you know, training for my first one literally broke my legs. But after running several halfs over nearly a decade - and in the midst of revving up an outdoor company focused on highlighting the Detroit region's world-class events - bowing out of the full just didn't sit well with my soul. " Alright Dan, " I promised to myself once the marathoners were out of sight, " the next time that you run this race, you're running ALL of it. " Well, two years later, here I was - cashing in on that promise. Running deeper into the unknown of the course, despite my familiarity with the city. Trusting blindly in my training regimen, remaining calories, and ability to handle adversity. According to my Strava data, this segment of the race through Midtown and Eastern Market was the pinnacle of my race. Being a proud Wayne State University Law School alum, running along the south side of campus on Warren Avenue was special, as well as cruising past my old stomping grounds on Cass. The crowds remained vibrant and energetic through Eastern Market too, which kept my spirits strong as I passed the 16 Mile marker. Every step beyond Mile 16 meant setting a new record for the longest run of my life. Venturing farther and farther into unknown territory, both with regard to the course and what my body was capable of. At ~Mile 17.5, the Dequindre Cut came into view. This was an encouraging sight, seeing as I had run the "Flapjack 5K" back in February along the Cut and remembered its gradual decline towards the Detroit River. " Final lap, " I thought as the Mile 18 marker came into view towards the beginning of the Dequindre Cut. " Let's crush this. " Spoiler alert: I did not crush it. I was about to battle the pain cave. The Pain Cave Phase   |   Miles 18 - 25 Energy Level: Ignoring the pain at all costs Pacing Strategy: 9:15 minute/mile pace (or faster if possible) Actual Pace:  9:56 minute/mile pace Right at Mile 18, something flipped for me. I didn't "hit the wall," as so many marathon blogs warn eerily about. " Hitting the wall " is the moment when your body simply runs out of external energy (e.g., energy produced via carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) and switches to other internal fuel sources like fats and proteins. I know that I didn't hit the wall here because I have hit the wall in past races, including during my age group-winning debut at the 2025 North Country Trail Half Marathon. Right at Mile 11 in that race, I felt everything run empty. Just placing one foot in front of the other constituted a monumental feat of endurance. But then - just in the nick of time to secure the win - my internal energy sources kicked in to close out the race. Thanks to the mountain of Thai food, power breakfast, and paced use of energy gels during the race, I fortunately avoided a repeat of that experience during the marathon. However, there's not a nutrition plan that can help avoid the pain of your first marathon. Especially when you're miles and miles past your record-setting longest long run. The direct wind coming off of the Detroit River and onto the Dequindre Cut didn't help either. In fact, it nearly nullified the benefit of the Cut's consistent downhill slope. It was a welcomed relief when a steady uphill just before Mile 19 led us up and out of the Cut. Or so I thought. In a sadistic twist of course planning, staring DIRECTLY at you as you emerge from the Dequindre Cut is the marker for Mile 25 - the final mile - and the elite marathoners sprinting right past it. In that moment, you're standing so close to the finish line... but you still have over 7 miles to go. In the opposite direction. This, dear friends, was the moment that I entered the "Pain Cave," both physically and mentally. From Mile 19 on, everything waist-down started to hurt. My IT band issues flared up every half mile or so. The toes in my right foot felt broken. My left shin started to ache. Put differently, mementos from every running injury that my legs had endured over the last decade resurrected at the worst possible time. I was far from being the only "cave dweller" in this segment. Left and right, as we marched through gorgeous Indian Village, runners were starting to give in to their ailments. Even in my weakened state, I passed by runners who were cruising through the Windsor and Midtown segments. Everyone seemed to have arrived at the same destination of objective pain, regardless of fitness level or training regimen. The race was not longer purely physical. From especially Mile 20 on, we would all be tested on our mental resilience . Here were the mantras that got me through the Pain Cave: The Pain will Pass. I'm currently reading The Rise of the Ultra Runners by Adharanand Finn, which details several world-class ultra marathons and the super-humans that complete them. One key takeaway from the book is that pain, as opposed to serious injury, represents an inevitable variable in any long distance race. The key is to not fixate on it or try to fight it. Instead, embrace the pain with the knowledge that (i) it is indicative of the difficult task you're pursuing and (ii) it will pass. The Way is Through . This mantra is one that I've utilized countless times over the last four years, most notably during the summit push for Mt. Kilimanjaro and while buried in endless hours of legal work. While those two examples may seem worlds apart, mentally they are exactly on par with each other. In practice, this mantra means that there's no amount of complaining or miraculous rescue plan that will get you to your final destination. There's only one way to get to the freedoms and enjoyment of the other side - by moving through the experience . Focus on the Why . At Mile 22, runners seemed to be dropping off their target paces like flies. Walking. Sitting. Stretching. No longer running the marathon, but surviving the experience. For me, as early as 1997, I've wanted to be able to say with a clear conscience that I ran a marathon. Not walked or power hiked one. Ran one. And, on the other side of this seemingly endless course, with continued effort, I will be able to say that for the rest of my life. Those 3 mantras reverberated through my soul as the prodigal Mile 25 sign FINALLY came back into sight. Just 1.2 miles to go. The pain will pass. The way is through. Keep focusing on why you're here. The Marathoner Phase   |   Mile 26 Energy Level: Inexplicable gratitude Pacing Strategy: Empty the tank Actual Pace:  Who cares The rain had fully kicked back in towards the end of Mile 25, right as I approached a large overpass with a notable crowd strategically cheering under it. " I bet that's where they are ," I said to myself through heavy breaths. Sure enough, once my energy-depleted vision managed to zero-in on the crowd, I spotted my friend Ryan holding a massive " DAN " sign in bright blue paint. Next to him was his fianceé Sam, holding a " CHAFE YOUR DREAMS " sign in purple. And, last but certainly not least, my girlfriend Emily was proudly holding a sign that I'm prohibited from describing here ( prompted a massive Mile 26 smile though ). I deviated towards them, gave her probably the saltiest kiss of her life, and without breaking pace kept pushing towards the elusive finish line. Finally, I turned north towards Campus Martius on Woodward, and there it was. The finish line. The final destination for nearly three decades' worth of dreams, and a decade's amount of training. Most importantly, the point where I can stop running. " Thank you...thank you ." Those were the only words, equally in prayer and a recognition of relief, that I could conjure as I emptied the energy tank. And then, in a moment blurred by the full spectrum of emotion, I crossed the finish line. The race ended. My legs stopped running. My mind could finally rest. For the rest of my life, I can proudly state that I ran the "Best Marathon in America": the Detroit Free Press Marathon. If you also dream of sharing that designation, then I sincerely hope that this article helps to move you forward in that journey. Plus, you can always count on Team Expedition Detroit to provide you with the content, inspiration, and insights into making your outdoor dreams a reality. We'll see you at the starting line.

November brings cooler temperatures, remaining colors, and rapidly diminishing crowds on the trails - perfect conditions for exploring the best hiking trails near Detroit! Here are the top five ranked trails to kick off your next hiking expedition. Outdoor enthusiasts all come in different shapes and sizes - interests, ethnicities, identities, and range of experience in the great outdoors. That being said, our demographic research has zeroed in on one great common love among all lovers of our natural environment: hiking . Regardless of whether your trail of choice is your neighborhood-sponsored natural trail or the topographic rollercoaster of a "black diamond" trek, the Detroit region has a perfect hike waiting for you. We guarantee it. Just in time for National Hiking Day , the Expedition Detroit team has painstakingly evaluated and curated the following list of the Detroit area's top five hiking trails for your exploring pleasure. Happy hiking, my friends - we'll see you at the trailhead. Photo courtesy of AllTrails, LLC 1. The Penosha Trail | Brighton State Recreation Area Distance : 4.9 miles Elevation Gain : 393 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Keeping with our custom, we like to start our articles highlighting the "best of the best" - none of us have time for any guessing-game BS. For the Detroit region's hiking trails, that highest of honors goes to none other than the Penosha Trail: Brighton State Recreation Area's most celebrated experience and winner of Expedition Detroit's best hike within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. Cheers to you, Penosha ! Described as a "quintessential Michigan hike," the 4.9 mile trail features the dense mature forests, rolling hills, and surprising vistas that are found only on the most sought-after trails within our region. Penosha , translated roughly as "long" in the Chippewa language, is the longest single trail in Brighton State Recreation Area, although it's the ideal length for a picturesque day hike. The Penosha loop starts at the Bishop Lake trailhead - the same trailhead used for Brighton's famous mountain biking trails - although you should immediately break south (right) to head towards Penosha. The first 2.5 miles of the trail comprise of rollercoaster hills characteristic of Brighton's other great trails . However, the 2.5 mile halfway point marks a sudden change in the hike's intensity; what follows next is a gradual 0.6 mile climb towards the route's "summit," right at the 3.1 mile marker. Your endurance will be rewarded with a 1.3 mile decline, only slightly diminished by a brief exit from the park's boundary along Teahen Road. You will conquer one more brief, 0.2 mile climb at the 4.3 mile marker. A post-hike beer should be waiting for you at the bottom of a relaxing decline back to the trailhead. EXPLORE THE PENOSHA TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of AllTrails, LLC 2. The Crooked Lake Trail | Pinckney State Recreation Area Distance : 4.2 miles Elevation Gain : 311 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Speaking personally rather than strictly on behalf of Expedition Detroit's top-secret "Trail Ranking" methodology, the Crooked Lake Trail is my single favorite trail in the Detroit area. This beloved 4.2 mile trail has played host to several of my most successful trail races , brainstorming business meetings, day-hike dates, and the all-important solitary outings just to clear the noise out of my head. I love this trail - I'm not surprised that countless other outdoor enthusiasts do as well. Located in Pinckney State Recreation Area, the Crooked Lake loop starts at the Silver Lake trailhead - Pinckney's primary trailhead for all hiking, backpacking, running, mountain biking, and paddling adventures. As you gradually ascend towards the ridge-top vistas of Crooked Lake, there are three main hills that you should take into consideration as you pace out your hike. The first strikes right out of the gate: a 0.4 mile climb that gains 115 feet in elevation. The second is the most mellow: a 0.1 mile climb of 44 feet in elevation. Please learn from my previous trail running mistake: do NOT push the pace over the next 1.6 miles of leisurely, unbelievably scenic hiking. The final hill - which will feel like two hills due to a false summit - will have you climb 117 feet over another 0.4 mile distance to the trail's true "summit" of 1,009 feet. The remaining 1.2 miles of the trail is a rewarding, partially-forested and partially-marshland decline back to Silver Lake. DISCOVER THE CROOKED LAKE TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 3. The River and Blue Trails | Proud Lake State Recreation Area Distance : 5.75 miles Elevation Gain : 127 feet Trail Rating : Easy When I was a full-time practicing attorney, the River and Blue Trails of Proud Lake State Recreation Area became a fundamental component of my "deal-closing" routine. After staring at my computer screen for countless hours, I would leave my phone at my home office, grab my puppy Lucy, and head a few miles down the road to the trailhead. These trails evolved into an essential weapon in my arsenal against clinical burnout; it's my pleasure to highlight them now for you all. Although not prominently marked as a hiking trailhead , we recommend starting your hike at the fishing access site parking lot just east of Wixom Road (north of the main park office). From the parking lot, follow the River Trail along the southern shoreline of the Huron River towards the idyllic Proud Lake Dam. Once over the dam, you will start following the Blue Trail at the 1.3 mile marker. Please note that the remaining segments of this route - the Blue and Red Trails - traverse through sections of Proud Lake that are open to hunting. As such, please wear "hunter orange" outer clothing if hiking during Michigan's main firearm season (November 15th - 30th) . As you follow the Blue and Red Trails into the eastern reaches of the park, the Blue Trail branches away from the Red Trail at the 2.0 mil marker and towards a DNR two-track road leading to Proud Lake. While you can follow the DNR road south towards Proud Lake, the Blue Trail actually continues northeast until it banks west (left) back into the park at the 2.9 mile marker. Starting at the 3.5 mile marker, the final segments of the trail will traverse the isolated northern stretches of the park until you reconnect with the Proud Lake Dam roughly 4.5 miles into the journey. From the dam, all trails head west as you retrace your steps and relocate your parked vehicle. EXPLORE THE BEST OF PROUD LAKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of AllTrails, LLC 4. The Haven Hill Natural Area Trail | Highland State Recreation Area Distance : 3.5 miles Elevation Gain : 160 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Do you prefer your trails with a slice of history? Say no more: reintroducing the Haven Hill Natural Area Trail, Highland State Recreation Area's premiere hiking and trail running loop located on Edsel Ford's former estate. While the ruins of the Ford Family's former hilltop retreat are an obvious highlight of this natural area, the jaw-dropping beauty of the rolling hills, wetlands, creeks, and expansive Haven Hill Lake is the true treasury of Highland's 5,903 acres. Fortunately for all of us, the Haven Hill Natural Area Trail takes hikers through the heart of the park's most stunning scenery. Starting at the Goose Meadow Picnic Area parking lot trailhead, follow the trail marker signs northwest towards the shore of Haven Hill Lake and Ford Dam. This initial segment of the hike will be a favorite for bird watchers - you will be hugging the eastern shoreline of the lake for the first half mile of the trek, complete with phenomenal wildlife viewing opportunities. Continue towards trail sign #18 to merge onto the "Blue Trail," which you will be following for the majority of the trail. The Blue Trail will bring you into the heart of the northern woods of Highland - boardwalks through tall reeds and winding, climbing trails under mature oaks are trademark features of this segment of the hike. The only potentially tricky section hits at the 0.6 mile mark; while several trails will diverge from this segment, be sure to follow the trail towards mark #s 15, 16, and 14 - in that exact, non-sequential order. From trail sign # 14, continue on the northwest (left) trail segment for 1.5 miles of unbroken, beautiful forested hiking. The only challenging climb of this hike comes at - you guessed it - Haven Hill. Starting at the 2.7 mile mark, you will climb at a 7% grade over 0.2 miles to reach the "summit" of the route just east of the historical ruins. There is an offshoot trail at the mid-point of this climb to visit the Haven Hill summit and historical site , although the remaining 0.6 miles comprise of a much-deserved decline back towards the trailhead. CONQUER HAVEN HILL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of AllTrails, LLC 5. The Potawatomi Trail | Pinckney State Recreation Area Distance : 17.6 miles Elevation Gain : 1,253 feet Trail Rating : Moderate-Difficult If you decide to knock out each of these trails over this month, we highly recommend hiking the famous Potawatomi Trail early on in the journey. Not only is this trail one of the Detroit region's most famous, it's also indisputably the most difficult on this list - especially if you're aiming to tackle the trail in a day. Definitely doable, but oh baby... you would absolutely have our undying respect for doing so. Located in Pinckney State Recreation Area ( yes, we're experiencing déjà vu as well from how many times Pinckney appears in our articles ), "Poto" takes an average of 6 hours and 20 minutes to complete. The trail snakes through a series of lakes during its rollercoaster of elevation changes, with its steepest climb of 117 feet of elevation gain striking at the 11.7 mile marker ( the same final climb described in the Crooked Lake Trail description above ). Note that this wooded, hilly trail is extremely popular with mountain bikers ( note : Poto is the #1 ranked MTB trail in the Detroit region ), other hikers, backpackers, trail runners, cross-country skiers, and hunters during the fall months. P lease remember to wear "hunter orange" outer clothing if hiking during Michigan's main firearm season . Not feeling the climb at the end of an 11+ mile day? Fortunately, the bottom of this climb provides you with direct access to Crooked Lake Rustic Campground via a southward-bound offshoot at the 11.8 mile marker. The remaining 6 miles provide gentle, rolling terrain back to the trailhead at Pickerel Lake. As always, we must include the disclaimer that this list only scratches the surface on amazing hiking opportunities throughout the Detroit Region. Our other favorite trail systems include Maybury State Park , Bald Mountain State Recreation Area , Independence Oaks County Park , and Point Pelee National Park . We promise that each of these trail systems - plus many, many more - will receive their proper recognition in due course. Until then, we'll be out in the field - can't wait to see you out there! This article includes information originally published in 50 Hikes in Michigan , Jim DuFresne (2019). Which of the above is your favorite trail? Is there a specific trail, park, activity, or destination that you would like to see featured in a future article? Perfect - we want to hear about it! Please feel free to post about it in the comments below or contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Expedition Detroit is your go-to source for original content, guided outdoor adventures, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. ADVENTURE STARTS HERE World-class outdoors. One hour from Downtown Detroit. CHOOSE YOUR EXPEDITION In The Woods On The Water Down The Hill On The Trail On The Hunt START YOUR ADVENTURE join us on our guided outdoor adventures Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided hiking , backpacking , and trail running services throughout southeast Michigan. With trips occurring across 11 state parks, we can't wait to guide you on your next outdoor adventure! BOOK YOUR EXPEDITION POV: You Decided to Run the Best Marathon in America RUNNING Oct 21 Autumn Adventures: 5 Best Destinations for Fall Camping near Detroit HIKING AND BACKPACKING Oct 7 Ghosts on the Trail: Famous Haunted Hikes throughout Metro Detroit FEATURED DESTINATIONS Oct 3 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout October 2025 LIFESTYLE Sep 30 Ride into Adventure at the Shelden Mountain Bike Fest this Weekend! BIKING Sep 25 Fall 2025 Preview: Elite 8 Outdoor Experiences near Detroit to Enjoy this Season LIFESTYLE Sep 23 MOST RECENT ARTICLES Direct from the field to your feed. EXPLORE MORE WORK WITH US We work with industry-leading brands and hometown retailers alike in our mission towards building a better outdoor ecosystem for Detroit. From retailers to influencers, manufacturers to advocates - if your work creates value for Detroit's outdoor community, then we want to work alongside you. our partners To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. LEARN MORE Subscribe to the Expedition Detroit Newsletter! SIGN UP Thanks for submitting - you have been added to our monthly Newsletter subscriber list. We can't wait to see you out there! the Expedition Detroit Official Store Whether you're in the field, at the gym, or on the couch, we have prepared our favorite threads for your next adventure. All-Black Athletic Shorts (Unisex) Price $39.99 Add to Cart Under Armour® Men's Polo Price $79.50 Add to Cart Branded Camp Hatchet by Motor City Axe Price $99.99 Add to Cart Deer Camp Hoodie Price $56.00 Add to Cart Branded Camp Axe by Motor City Axe Price $139.99 Add to Cart Crop Hoodie Price $52.00 Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price $21.99 Add to Cart Champion Rain Jacket Price $74.95 Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Price $22.00 Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Price $40.95 Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Price $54.00 Add to Cart Premium Eco Hoodie Price $62.50 Out of Stock Expedition Fanny Pack Price $32.99 Add to Cart Kids Fleece Hoodie Price $39.50 Add to Cart Quarter-Zip Athletic Sweater Price $116.95 Add to Cart Men’s Columbia Fleece Vest Price $61.00 Out of Stock SHOP FULL STORE About Expedition Detroit READ MORE The Detroit Region: a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. That is the core belief of this business, and every aspect of our operations originate from it. Expedition Detroit is your go-to source for original content, guided adventures, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. From well-known experiences to hidden gems, top-tier gear to time-tested survivalist tips, volunteer opportunities to recreational advocacy, our sole focus is to support, inspire, and expand Detroit's outdoor community. We can't wait to see you out there. Let's Get Social

Expedition Detroit is an outdoor recreation media company focused exclusively on outdoor experiences within an hour’s drive of Downtown Detroit. PARTNER WITH Expedition Detroit works with like-minded influencers , companies , and organizations that create value for Detroit's outdoor industry . CALLING ALL DETROIT ADVENTURERS Transform your passion for social media AND the outdoors into a career with Expedition Detroit! Start earning affiliate commissions and referral discounts TODAY on our guided day trip and store product offerings . AFFILIATE PROGRAM REFER & EARN LOOKING TO REACH DETROIT'S OUTDOOR COMMUNITY? Welcome - you've arrived at the right base camp. Our innovative multi-media platform broadcasts the outdoor industry's leading products, services, and nonprofit values. We proudly feature our partners' gear, operations, and advocacy opportunities within our publications. Contact us today to learn more about our custom packages for marketing and promoting your enterprise! LET'S CONNECT OUR PARTNERS Expedition Detroit is proud to partner with leading brands in the outdoor industry. GET PAID TO PROMOTE Detroit's Outdoors Are you an outdoor enthusiast with social media marketing skills? PERFECT. YOU'RE HIRED. Earn easy commissions promoting Expedition Detroit's guided trips and store products! START EARNING TODAY

All the best outdoor recreation adventures and activities to help you plan & prepare for your Metro-Detroit trip. DESTINATIONS From campgrounds to trailheads, national parks to local gems, and ski resorts to kayak launches, explore the must-see destinations of the Detroit region. EXPLORE WITH US! Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided exploration opportunities in the Detroit region. Despite whether you're just starting your outdoor journey or are an accomplished recreationist looking for world-class experiences, we have the perfect hiking , backpacking , or trail running adventure waiting for you! BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE FEATURED DESTINATIONS #TRAILTUESDAY SERIES WEEKLY FEATURES ON THE 50 MOST POPULAR TRAILS WITHIN THE DETROIT REGION Discover the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge: the Origin of Detroit's Conservation Renaissance A Hidden Treasure: Explore the Richardson Trail at Brighton Recreation Area #TrailTuesday: Navigating Ortonville's Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loops Trail #TrailTuesday: Summiting Highland's Rugged Mt. Kanzer Trail #TrailTuesday: Proud Lake State Recreation Area's NEW "Expedition Loop" #TrailTuesday: Cycling Novi's "Hidden Gem" ITC Corridor Trail The Potawatomi Trail: Rediscovering Detroit's First Backpacking Loop #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Woods Creek Rustic Trail of Lower Huron Metropark #TrailTuesday: Exploring Brighton's Secluded Kahchin Trail #TrailTuesday: Livonia's Rotary Park Nature Preserve Trail Loop #TrailTuesday: Exploring Bald Mountain's Rugged Blue, White and Orange Loops #TrailTuesday: The Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center's Hiking Loops in Troy #TrailTuesday: Exploring Island Lake's Hickory Ridge Trail #TrailTuesday: Kensington Metropark's Fox, Chicadee, and Wildwing Trail Loops #TrailTuesday: Belle Isle's Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Trail Discover Detroit's Best Fall Hike: Pinckney's Crooked Lake Trail #TrailTuesday: Maybury State Park's Mountain Bike Trail Thru-Hiking the Chief Pontiac Trail, Pt. II: Proud Lake to Kensington Thru-Hiking the Chief Pontiac Trail, Pt. I: Highland to Proud Lake #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Seven Lakes Loop Trail #TrailTuesday: Rediscovering Proud Lake's Wild Northwestern Loops #TrailTuesday: Exploring Island Lake's Famous Yellow Trail Loop #TrailTuesday: Conquering the Pontiac Lake Mountain Bike Trail Loop #TrailTuesday: Rediscovering Highland's Historic Haven Hill Loop Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 3: The Finale in Pinckney Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 2: Crossing the Highlands Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 1: Embracing Solitude #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Famous Penosha Trail in Brighton #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Wilderness Trail Loop in Holly #TrailTuesday: Braving Highland Recreation Area's A-B-C-D Loops #TrailTuesday: Exploring Detroit's Dequindre Cut Greenway #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Maybury State Park Hiking Trail Loop #TrailTuesday: Point Pelee Marsh Boardwalk Trail #TrailTuesday: West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve Trail #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Newburgh Lakeview Trail in Livonia #TrailTuesday: Proud Lake State Recreation Area's Figure 8 Loops #TrailTuesday: Exploring Novi Lakeshore Park's Multi-Trail EXPLORE NEW TRAILS TRAIL TOWN SPOTLIGHTS MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DETROIT REGION'S GREATEST GATEWAYS TO ADVENTURE Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Dearborn, Michigan Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Brighton, Michigan Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Amherstburg, Ontario Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Dexter, Michigan Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Northville, Michigan Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Milford, Michigan OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES MICHIGAN STATE PARKS Michigan's state parks and recreation areas offer beauty and adventure around every corner. While the state park network covers the entire state, there are 25 immaculate and accessible parks in the Detroit region. Click below to start your next state park adventure. Find State Parks SPOTLIGHT : HURON-CLINTON METROPARKS Located primarily along the Huron and Clinton Rivers, the Metropark system spans the Detroit metropolitan area and provides a natural oasis for more than 7 million visitors each year.* The Metroparks are open 365 days a year, providing residents endless opportunities to enjoy the full spectrum of Southeast Michigan’s four-season environment. *Data from The Huron-Clinton Metropark's Website. Park Maps Each Metropark has park-specific maps available. Park Maps Things To Do Exciting activities and events that each Metropark offers. Things To Do Learn More One region. Thirteen Metroparks. Endless experiences. Learn More WATER TRAILS The Detroit region is home to 8 distinct water trails, including the Detroit Heritage River Water Trail straddling an international border and the 104-mile Huron River National Water Trail. There's a lifetime of waterways to explore. Grab your paddle, we'll see you out there. Explore More