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Calling all night owls, adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and intrepid hikers! We're heading into the darker months of the year, which means that the BEST WILDLIFE VIEWING OPPORTUNITIES are just around the corner. Join Expedition Detroit on a special "Night Hike Safari" at Highland Recreation Area's famous & historic "Haven Hill Natural Area" throughout the fall and winter to explore and enjoy the best of the Detroit area's outdoors - under the stars! This moderate-level guided hike explores one of the Detroit region's most famous, beautiful, and historic trails: the "Haven Hill Loop" at Highland Recreation Area. Starting from the idyllic Haven Hill Lake, the trail traverses the dense marshlands, mature forests, dramatic moraine hills, and remaining ruins of Edsel Ford's historic "nerve retreat." Yes - this trail includes a foray to the structural ruins of Haven Hill, the Ford Family's wilderness lodge that once hosted the likes of Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Charles Lindbergh, and even the Prince of Wales. If you're looking to enhance your hiking strength, experience, and historical knowledge in the Detroit region's sole National Natural Landmark, then this is the perfect trail for you! EACH HIKER MUST WEAR A HEADLAMP OR CARRY A FLASHLIGHT! Participants can either bring their own or rent one from Expedition Detroit for $5. Headlamps are reservable via the online checkout and payable at the trailhead. MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Haven Hill Lake parking lot trailhead (first turn on your right after entering Highland Recreation Area) Trail Length: 3.7 miles Elevation Gain: 260 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Haven Hill Lake parking lot CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY SPOTLIGHT ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-the-haven-hill-loop

Welcome to Highland State Recreation Area in Highland, Michigan! This moderate-level guided hike leads intrepid adventurers to the highest of Highlands' 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! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Milford Connector parking lot trailhead Trail Length: 3.8 miles Elevation Gain: 233 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Very limited parking at trailhead; free parking pull-off locations also located along Weaver Rd.

Start your New Year with a winter wonderland adventure on a GUIDED SNOWSHOE TREK! This introductory-level guided snowshoe trek will traverse 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. Snowshoes and poles are available for rent and will be fitted at the trailhead. Depending on departure time, we also strongly advise that snowshoe participants bring their own headlamp or rent one from Expedition Detroit for $5. Headlamps are reservable via our online checkout and payable at the trailhead. IN THE EVENT OF CANCELLATION BASED ON CONDITIONS, participants will have the option to (1) use booked session for a guided hike + receive credit towards another guided trip or (2) postpone reservation to another date. We will send you the form to make your selection. MORE ON THIS TRAIL: Meeting Point: Trailhead at the eastern parking lot Elevation Gain: 127 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the 8 Mile Trailhead CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY SPOTLIGHT ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-maybury-state-park-hiking-trail-loop

Whitetail Deer Season in Michigan may have reached its final week, BUT there's still plenty of time left to contribute to charitable conservation at Doe Patrol's inaugural "DOEnation Metro Detroit" event this Saturday, January 25th! Michigan - especially Southeast Michigan - is a beautiful hunting paradox. Our region is literally and figuratively overrun with an abundant natural resource: whitetail deer. Specifically female whitetail deer, or "does." So much so that leading up to the 2024-25 hunting season, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources practically begged hunters to pass on male "buck" deer and target does. Why? Because for several years now, our regional deer population has skyrocketed while our hunter population has steadily plummeted. The statewide deer population is estimated at 2 million deer, a 200% increase from the 1940s ( overpopulation was even seen as a problem back then ). Spurred on by warmer climates, suburbanization, and hunter decreases, this ballooning population caused over 58,000 car accidents  and a 59.6% increase in crop damage last year. The oversized herds also wreak havoc on forest floors, including the decimation of essential young trees, wildflowers, and plants for warding off invasive species. In response, the DNR has unveiled several tactics for encouraging the harvest of antlerless deer this season, including a new extended antlerless firearm season lasting from January 2nd to 12th . That policy change rides on the momentum generated by similar relaxed hunting policies enacted in recent years, including an unprecedented "urban archery season" that is still in effect in the Detroit region through January 31st . Now, the good news. Michigan's hunters have clearly heeded the call and harvested 141,704 antlerless deer so far this season . Seasons past exhibited Michigan hunters harvesting 1 doe for every 3 bucks - the worst ratio in the Great Lakes region . This season so far, thankfully, has a 1:1.1 ratio ( gold standard is 1:1 ). A notable proportion of those doe harvests have occurred since the start of the New Year, statistically illustrating the effectiveness of the extended season. Well done, hunters and DNR policymakers - but our work as conservationists and advocates doesn't end in the field . Especially in Southeast Michigan, we have an unprecedented opportunity to marry Michigan's herd management needs with Metro Detroit's significant food insecurity needs. Over 38% of the combined population of Wayne, Macomb, and Oakland counties is unable to meet all their basic necessities, including food, housing, childcare, transportation, and healthcare. When faced with such dire needs, nutritious food often becomes treated as a luxury and therefore immediately cut from the payroll. That's where we as hunters with extra tags and longer seasons can step in. Especially with organizations like Doe Patrol leading the charge in bringing high quality venison to Metro Detroit families in need. MEET DOE PATROL: Where Conservation Meets Philanthropy Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day, teach a man to fish and he will eat the rest of his life . This quote attributed to ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu applies to the entirety of the outdoor recreational arena, where knowledge, skill, and resiliency pave the road to success. For our friends at Doe Patrol - a West Michigan-based nonprofit that has provided over 5,000 pounds of venison since 2020 - this quote defines the core of their operational philosophy. Beyond processing and donating venison for free, Doe Patrol aims to teach new and veteran hunters alike on the benefits of hunting, processing, utilizing dog trackers, and harnessing local resources for maximizing every animal harvest. Doe Patrol brings their calling to fruition via sponsoring several events throughout the calendar year. In 2024, these events included their " Doe Camp " social processing event, special educational sessions on processing for small groups, and larger educational processing events throughout the whitetail season. Doe Patrol's hallmark event - DOEnation Day - featured additional festivities like largest and smallest doe competitions, featured speakers, giveaways, raffles, door prizes, and provided food & drink. Oh, and processing a lot of charitable venison. All of the aforementioned events have occurred on the west side of the state. That finally changes this Saturday, January 25th , in Clarkston. Image courtesy of Doe Patrol INTRODUCING DOE PATROL'S " DOEnation Metro Detroit " EVENT Alright, let's bring all the pieces together . You're now an expert on why doe maintenance is so important for Michigan's natural environment and social needs, how Michigan's hunting community is playing an active role in alleviating these pain points, and who is leading the charge in both providing venison to those in need and educating the next generation of sustainable processors. Now we turn to the most exciting aspect of this article for Detroit's charitable hunting community: where and when you can get involved. THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH IN CLARKSTON , Doe Patrol will be hosting their first " DOEnation Metro Detroit " event from 3 to 10PM! Open to all, this rendition of DOEnation will feature a largest and smallest doe competition, raffle drawings, door prizes, and complimentary food and drink. What's entirely new for DOEnation Metro Detroit, however, includes that everyone who donates will receive a free t-shirt and that a keynote presenter will be speaking on tracking. All of the venison donated at DOEnation Metro Detroit will be further donated to Neighborhood House , a Rochester-based nonprofit that distributes about 200,000 meals annually to local families in need. While every food pantry serving Metro Detroit is both incredible and impactful, Neighborhood House's operations uniquely align with the ethos of Doe Patrol in that their goal is to enable self-sustainability for their donees, not just temporary satiation. More specifically, Neighborhood House's assistance services include meal service, clothing provision, rent and utility assistance, counseling, transportation, and educational classes. As a "Client Choice" food pantry, the organization's food delivery process includes having clients choose their own food selections instead of simply handing out boxes of pre-packaged food. Neighborhood House also provides home food delivery to clients who are homebound or without access to transportation. Friends, events like DOEnation Metro Detroit - and charitable organizations like Doe Patrol and Neighborhood House - are exactly why Team Expedition Detroit is so passionate about hunting in the Great Lakes State. Ethical hunting produces near limitless opportunities to improve our communities. From environmental sustainability to full freezers, hunters have both the privilege and responsibility of utilizing their passion for the benefit of all. How awesome is that. And how grateful are we for organizations like Doe Patrol for facilitating how all of us can channel conservation into charitable action. Expedition Detroit is proud to promote the social and charitable activities of Doe Patrol West Michigan and Doe Patrol Metro Detroit. If you operate a nonprofit or charitable organization that benefits the Detroit region's outdoor recreational ecosystem or natural environment, please contact us via info@expeditiondetroit.com for collaboration opportunities.

Tundra Season is BACK in Detroit, unveiling unprecedented opportunities to dive into one of our region's favorite recreational pastimes: cross-country skiing . Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for launching into cross-country skiing near Detroit! We've said it once, twice, and will probably say it a million times more: Winter is one of the Detroit region's greatest recreational assets. Yes, we know that the real-feel temperature this morning was -23ºF (-30ºC). Extreme cold weather like this is undoubtedly the most severe natural risk to living and recreating in the Detroit region, so much so that we have published Expedition Detroit's own " Winter Survival Guide . " I wore more layers of protective clothing on yesterday's 1 mile walk than I did on my summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro . Never underestimate a Detroit winter. And yet, think of the alternative - like the lackluster winter that we endured last year. Winter sports annually contributes ~$3 billion to Michigan's $13 billion outdoor recreation industry. Last year, the infamous " Winter of '24 " gutted this revenue with its record-high temperatures, prompting Governor Whitmer to appeal to Congress, the U.S. Small Business Association, and the Federal Emergency Management Authority for Federal financial aid. Detroit's " Big Four Ski Resorts " suffered their worst seasons on record, with most of which closing for the season before the end of February. We did not make it out unscathed either. We did not lead a single guided snowshoe trek all last winter ( hoping to reverse that trend in 2025 - pre-sale is on NOW! ). Another of Expedition Detroit's greatest casualties from last winter involved cross-country skiing - a Detroit region favorite recreational pastime that we have been dying to dig further into since our genesis. Frustratingly, we never had the conditions to bring the sport to this platform. Until now. Winter 2025 - pervasive tundra conditions and all - is dialed in for exploring ALL of the Detroit region's wintertime recreational opportunities . So while these primetime conditions are still in effect, we're launching headfirst into the world-class gear, destinations, and beginner tips for exploring of the best of cross-country skiing near Detroit. GEAR UP: Cross-Country 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, cross-country skiing is entirely new to the Expedition Detroit platform. As such, if you are planning on tapping into cross-country 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 cross-country skiing gear ever, this article provides our dollar-backed, top-of-market selections for the best cross-country skiing duds currently being offered. Let's get into it. Photo courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc. The Essentials: Cross-Country Skis, Boots, and Poles Let's start with one massive positive about cross-country 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. CROSS-COUNTRY SKIS: Spider 62 Crown Xtralite Cross-Country Skis with TURNAMIC Bindings Brand : Fischer Cost : $369 Skiing Style : Classic Cross-Country 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. CROSS-COUNTRY BOOTS:   XC 2 Cross-Country Ski Boots Brand : Rossignol Cost : $159.95 Skiing Style : Classic Cross-Country 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. CROSS-COUNTRY POLES:   Focus Nordic Cross-Country Ski Poles Brand : Swix Cost : $28 Skiing Style : Classic Cross-Country 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. For more details on correct cross-country ski equipment sizing, check out this excellent sizing guide from our affiliate partner REI. Note that this gear only covers "Classic Cross-Country 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 cross-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 cross-country 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. Cross-country 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. GET OUT THERE: 3 Best Trails for Cross-Country Skiing Near Detroit The Detroit region is no stranger to world-class cross-country skiing trails. In fact, most - if not all - of our Michigan State, Huron-Clinton Metropark, and regional parks feature top-tier 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. If you're ready to ramp up your cross-country skiing adventures for Winter 2025, then here are the Detroit region's top 3 ranked trails for cross-country skiing near Detroit ( according to AllTrails ): 1. CROOKED LAKE TRAIL |    Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney, MI Distance : 4.4 Miles Elevation Gain : 324 ft. Route Type : Loop Largely celebrated as the Detroit region's #1 destination for fall colors , Pinckney Recreation Area's "Crooked Lake Trail" also takes the title as our most sought-after destination for cross-country skiing near Detroit! This classic trail boasts frozen lake vistas, forested hills, steady inclines, and thrilling declines to keep even the most ardent cross-country skier on their toes. EXPLORE THE CROOKED LAKE TRAIL YEAR-ROUND WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 2.    PENOSHA TRAIL    |    Brighton State Recreation Area    |    Brighton, MI Distance :  4.9 Miles Elevation Gain :  393 ft. Route Type : Loop The Penosha Trail is a quintessential Michigan hike , including a continued reign as one of Michigan's top 10 trails . Especially after a fresh snowfall, Penosha features a timeless magic to its forested corridors, marshland boardwalks, and dramatic climbs that will keep cross-country skiers coming back for more loops all season long. EXPLORE THE PENOSHA TRAIL  YEAR-ROUND WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 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 cross-country skiers. The rangers proceeded to create one of the most sought-after cross-country trail networks in the entire state - Bald Mountain's famous Blue, White, and Orange Loops . HIT THE TRAILS: Cross-Country Skiing Tips for Beginners Before signing off on this article, we wanted to close by sharing the following cross-country 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 cross-country ski 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 cross-country skiing. Shuffle & Glide; video courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc. 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 cross-country skiing near Detroit.

Who says that winter camping has to be a suffer fest? Here we invite you take sit back, warm up, and explore the cozy side of camping with these 5 best glamping destinations near Detroit during Winter 2025 ! Eight degrees Fahrenheit. -13.3333º Celsius for our Canadian faithful. I could barely make out the temperature from my near-frozen watch while burrowed inside a tent perched high on the "Island in the Sky" in Canyonlands National Park. All that I knew was that I had never been so cold in my life. A type of cold where sleep becomes a foregone conclusion, leaving you huddled and shivering while endlessly waiting for the sun to make its grand arrival. You'd think that a bitter Michigan winter would provide enough conditioning for a backpacking trip to the deserts of Moab, Utah in early spring. You'd also be damn wrong for underestimating the temperature swings of the desert - especially when compounded by the critical error of leaving nearly all of their winter camping gear back home . Air mattress? Deflated. Sleeping bag? Not tundra-rated . Expedition Detroit's own Dr. Eric Reilly ? Snoring profoundly about two feet to my right. Sunrise couldn't come soon enough. Basecamp for the coldest night of my life in Canyonlands National Park, Utah Friends: winter camping does NOT have to be an all-night "Suffer Fest." While nights spent in a backcountry tent - in the dead of winter - will inevitably produce greater resiliency and legendary campfire stories, we'd be fools to suggest that such experiences are for everyone. Especially if you have friends and family that you hope will actually want to continue adventuring through the Detroit region's outdoors with you. This article wanders from the backcountry campsites of our typical content to the cozier side of camping: Glamping , or "glamorous camping." In the spirit of Scandinavian hygge traditions, we invite you to schedule a relaxing and rejuvenating wintertime retreat to these five idyllic destinations for glamping near Detroit. Photo courtesy of Michigan Blue Magazine 1. Green Lake Yurt | Waterloo State Recreation Area    |    Chelsea, Michigan Weekend Reservation Fee : $78 per night How to Reserve : Online via Michigan State Park & Harbor Reservations If you're looking for the most adventurous destination for glamping near Detroit, then Waterloo Recreation Area's famous Green Lake Yurt will provide the perfect destination for your crew this winter! The Yurt sits on a scenic bluff overlooking its namesake Green Lake. The Yurt is located within the Green Lake Rustic Campground and is close to the reknown Waterloo-Pinckney Trail , the Detroit region's preeminent backpacking thru-trail. The Yurt is ADA accessible with a ramp leading up to the deck and a handicap parking area in front. The yurt will sleeps 5 people with its 2 futons that each convert to a double bed and a single bunk above one of the futons ( bedding is not provided ). The Yurt is heated by a propane stove, has solar powered lights inside (no electricity though), features a small inside table inside, a propane cooking stove ( bring a 1-pound canister ), and an outdoor grill are provided. Logistical Information: From December 1st to the first Friday in May, the gate to Green Lake Campground is closed. Depending on the weather, you may have to hike in to the Yurt (approximately 3/4 of a mile). If weather and snow permits, there is a combination lock on the gate to provide driving access to the Yurt. The Yurt door key is located in a lock box on the deck rail by the door. The combination to the lock box and the gate will be available 2 days prior to your arrival. Contact the park at (734) 475-8307 during business hours (8-12 & 1-4:30) to obtain the combination. Recommended Experience: Hike or bike the DTE Green Trail along the banks of Green Lake. Photo courtesy of Wandering Canadians 2.   Point Pelee oTENTik Campsites |    Point Pelee National Park    |    Leamington, Ontario Weekend Reservation Fee :   $133.25 (CAD) per night How to Reserve : Reserve by calling 1-877-RESERVE (737-3783) or online by visiting Parks Canada Campground Reservation Service . Experience the prisitine lakeside wilderness of Point Pelee National Park like never before this winter by experiencing the glamping life in an oTENTik tent! Located at Point Pelee's Camp Henry campsite, the oTENTik tents provide a relaxing, comfortable, and easy camping experience for adventurers of all experience levels. The oTENTik tents are a cross between an A-frame cabin and a prospector tent, permanently fixed to a raised wooden floor, and maintained for visitors all year round. There are 24 oTENTik sites nestled in the heart of Point Pelee, making them a great base to explore all the park has to offer. Point Pelee is located at the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland and boasts world-class cycling, paddling, and hiking throughout Canada’s second smallest and most ecologically diverse national park. Better yet, your overnight stay will provide you with an unparalleled stargazing opportunity thanks to Point Pelee's status as a Dark Sky Preserve . Recommended Experience : Hike to " the Tip " - the southernmost point of mainland Canada! Photo courtesy of Hipcamp, Inc. 3.   Waymeet "Orchardside" Homestead |    Ann Arbor, Michigan Weekend Reservation Fee :  $50 per night How to Reserve : Online via Hipcamp Introducing the first Hipcamp destination to be featured in an Expedition Detroit article! Visitors to the stunning "Orchardside Homestead" will pair this gorgeous destination for glamping near Detroit with native Michigan woods, pastures grazed by North American Heritage Yak, an ancient orchard, a natural swimming pond, and free ranging chickens. Visitors are free to explore the site's pond, wander the woods, meet a chicken, pet a yak, and live the "small farm experience" by following the hosts through their morning farming chores. Orchardside features a 16 ft. diameter glamping tent, lavishly furnished with a king bed, furs and Persian carpets. The tent is heated by a wood burning stove capable of keeping the tent toasty down to 0ºF. Nestled in beside its namesake orchard and one of their yak pastures, the glamping tent is located just a short walk from the destination's hot outdoor shower and natural swimming pool. Recommended Experience: Hike or paddle through Ann Arbor's Barton and Bird Hills Nature Areas . Photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources 4.   Rustic Cabins at Island Lake |    Island Lake State Recreation Area    |    Brighton, Michigan Weekend Reservation Fee :  $100 per night How to Reserve : Online via Michigan State Park & Harbor Reservations Does a rustic cabin truly constitute "glamping"? Eh...we may be stretching the definition slightly, but we simply couldn't pass up the opportunity to live the cabin life at one of the Detroit region's most celebrated recreational destinations: Island Lake State Recreation Area. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources , Island Lake's "White Pine" and "Blue Spruce" cabins provide campers with an "Up North experience close to the city." Each cabin includes bunk beds ( 8 beds in each cabin ), a propane heater, a closet, and a grill. Vault toilets are located nearby, and both cabins share the same water supply. Recommended Experience : Hiking Island Lake's famous " Yellow Trail Loop ." Bonus points if you pair your rustic cabin stay with one of our top-rated guided hikes on the Yellow Trail! Photo courtesy of HipCamp, Inc. 5.   Territorial Acres |    Whitmore Lake, Michigan Weekend Reservation Fee :  $50 per night How to Reserve : Online via Hipcamp Couple a peaceful getaway with an idyllic glamping experience this winter at the top-rated " Territorial Acres " Hipcamp destination! You'll find yourself right at home in their large 4-season canvas tent, which is fully-outfitted on a wood platform with a wood burning stove, fire pit, grill, and private bathroom containing a hot shower and composting toilet. Located off-grid yet in the heart of Washtenaw County , Territorial Acres boasts 15 acres of pristine wetlands, open fields, and forests. In the winter, the site's wetlands freeze over for added adventure opportunities. Territorial Acres also features 12 chickens on site, 2 hoop houses, perennial berry bushes, grape vines, and seasonal veggies. Within 20 minutes of our property there are dozens of options for hiking and mountain bike trails, lakes, rivers, restaurants, museums, and more. Additional Amenities: Queen bed, pillows, blankets, linens, dining table, dishes/silverware, french press coffee maker, pots and pans, games, towels, dish cloths, potable water, hot shower, and composting toilet. Recommended Experience: Explore the hiking and cross-country skiing trails at Huron Meadows Metropark . Do you own or operate a unique destination for camping or glamping near Detroit? Amazing - we'd love to hear about it! Contact us to collaborate via info@expeditiondetroit.com . 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 destinations for camping or glamping near 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 2 days ago HIKING AND BACKPACKING Make 2025 Your Healthiest AND Most Adventurous Year with Expedition Detroit's Guided Hiking Bundles! Jan 8 LIFESTYLE Top 5 Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2025 ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Jan 1 LIFESTYLE Top 2025 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Dec 20, 2024 LIFESTYLE Celebrate the Dark: Top 5 Experiences for Enjoying the Winter Solstice near Detroit ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Dec 17, 2024 ADVOCACY The Porcupine Mountains are at Risk. Here's Why It Matters for Detroit's Outdoors. Dec 11, 2024 ADVOCACY 60 Years Later: The True Impact of the Wilderness Act and Civil Rights Act on America's Outdoors ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) 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 Columbia Fleece Jacket Price $76.50 Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price $21.99 Add to Cart Embroidered Champion Packable Jacket Price $54.00 Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Price $22.00 Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Price $26.00 Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Price $54.00 Add to Cart Premium Eco Hoodie Price $62.50 Add to Cart Expedition Fanny Pack Price $32.99 Add to Cart Kids Fleece Hoodie Price $39.50 Add to Cart Essential Sports Bra - Expedition Green Price $39.99 Add to Cart 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

ACCESS ALL OF DETROIT'S OUTDOORS! Subscribe to EXPEDITION DETROIT+ for exclusive access to the best of Detroit's outdoor industry! Best Value EXPEDITION DETROIT+ $ 4.99 4.99$ Every month Access to Detroit's premium outdoor content, experiences, and products! 7 day free trial JOIN NOW 40% off of ALL GUIDED TRIPS! 25% off of MICHIGAN "REEL CRAFT PASS" purchase! 25% off of ALL EXPEDITION DETROIT STORE PRODUCTS! 20% off of ALL RUNNING VENTURE RACES! Access to premium outdoor articles, videos, and more!

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 #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 ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) The Potawatomi Trail: Rediscovering Detroit's First Backpacking Loop ratings-display.rating-aria-label (2) #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 ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) 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