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Welcome to Island Lake State Recreation Area in Brighton, Michigan! This moderate-level guided trail run explores the crown jewel of one of the Detroit region's most popular parks: Island Lake's Yellow Trail Loop. This trail provides every natural feature that a trail runner, hiker, or mountain biker could wish for - mature pine forests, riverside vistas, panoramic hillsides, idyllic bridges, wildlife viewing, and steep climbs/declines to keep your heart pumping. Come discover why the Yellow Trail has evolved into a generational favorite for Detroit's outdoor community! Moderate-level trail runs are perfect for any runner training for a 10K, half-marathon, and even marathon distance race. With a guided and coached trail run, you will not only benefit from the experience of a knowledgeable guide, but also reap the physical benefits of running one of the Detroit region's premiere trails. MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Main mountain biking trailhead parking lot Trail length: 5.5 miles Elevation Gain: 278 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the main mountain biking trailhead CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY SPOTLIGHT ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-island-lake-yellow-trail-loop

Welcome to Highland State Recreation Area in Highland, Michigan! This introductory-level guided hike will traverse Highland's intrepid "North Loop" trail. Setting off from the E Livingston Road trailhead, this 2.2 mile hike traverses the rolling pines, mature pine forests, and stunning prairie grasslands of Highland's northern sections. The North Loop provides the perfect terrain for hikers of all experience levels to break in their boots, explore one of Highland's "hidden gem" trails, and kick-off their adventure into the world of hiking! Family-friendly adventure - children under 9 HIKE FREE! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Main "MTB Trailhead" parking lot off of E Livingston Road. Elevation Gain: 111 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the MTB Trailhead

Welcome to Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area in Waterford Township, Michigan! Congratulations - by conquering Pontiac Lake's famous MTB Loop, you will have successfully ran one of the most technical trails in southeast Michigan. Circling around the forested wilderness area north of the namesake Pontiac Lake, the MTB loop features rocky, hilly terrain with sharp turns. As the name suggests, this trail is primarily utilized for mountain biking, but the Michigan DNR has provided Expedition Detroit with limited access to conduct guided trips due to the beauty, challenge, and world-class prestige of the MTB Trail. As an advanced trail, this trip is perfect for experienced trail runners that are preparing for a half marathon, marathon, or ultra marathon. With a guided and coached trail run, you will not only benefit from the experience of a knowledgeable guide, but also reap the metaphysical benefits of running on one of the "Top 100 Trails" in the U.S. Don't forget to bring all of your gear, including - as always - your spirit for adventure! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Main trailhead parking lot off of Williams Lake Road. Elevation Gain: 649 feet Trail Rating: Difficult Route Orientation: Loop (counter-clockwise to mountain biking traffic) Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Williams Lake Road trailhead CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY FEATURE ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-pontiac-lake-mtb-loop

June has FINALLY arrived and campers all across the Detroit region are packing up to find their resting spots under the stars. Just in time for peaking camping season, here's our breakdown of the Top Five Campgrounds near Detroit for Summer 2025! BREAKING NEWS : there are incredible campgrounds near Detroit. For most of our passionate following, this shouldn't be a surprise. In fact, almost all of the Detroit region's most beloved Michigan State Parks and Huron-Clinton Metroparks have at least one modern group camping location. The majority of the campgrounds may be best suited for "RV camping," but hey, at least you can still pitch a tent. That being said, a common message thread that we received while uploading our content from thru-hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail read a little like this: " Woah, you can backcountry camp near Detroit? " " Yo! Since when do we have campgrounds? " " You can actually have these experiences in Metro Detroit?! " And, best of all: " Where else near Detroit can you camp like that? " Dear friends, that's where this article comes in. We've rolled our sleeves up to track down the five top-rated "rustic" campgrounds within the Detroit region . Destinations that not only preserve, but enhance the wilderness aesthetic that every outdoor enthusiast desires when looking to disconnect from modern society for a night or two. Especially when such pristine campgrounds are merely a short drive, moderate hike, decent ride, and - yes - expeditious paddle away. Here are the " Five Best Campgrounds near Detroit " for this year's camping season: 1. BLIND LAKE CAMPGROUND | Pinckney State Recreation Area Number of Sites: 10 Arrival Logistics: Hike-In or Bike-In Reservable Dates: All Year Cost: $20/night, plus additional fees Located along the western rim of the quintessential Potawatomi Trail in Pinckney Recreation Area, the main allure of Blind Lake stems from its isolation from any main trailhead within Pinckney Rec or its surrounding parks. Any arrival at Blind Lake is earned either by boot or pedal ( 7 miles from the Silver Lake trailhead ), so your night spent under the brilliant stars and by the lapping waves will be free of headlights and slamming car doors. Blind Lake's solitude is further enhanced by the gracious amount of space allocated between the sites, therefore ensuring as much privacy as a camper could ever hope for - especially when camping in the dead of winter ( Blind Lake is the only campground here that offers year-round camping ). The Blind Lake Rustic Campground is located about halfway along the 17-mile Potawatomi Trail . The campground is outfitted with a vault toilet, hand-pump water access, and fire rings. Only dead and downed timber are to be used for firewood. Advanced reservation required to book a site. EXPLORE PINCKNEY STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 2. MURRAY LAKE CAMPGROUND | Brighton State Recreation Area Number of Sites: 25 Arrival Logistics: Hike-In, Bike-In, or Drive-In Reservable Dates: May 23rd - August 30th ( only reservable for weekends ) Cost: $20/night, plus additional fees Sorry to start this section with bad news, but unless you stop reading and book a site at Murray Lake Campground NOW , then you may have to wait until next season. Seriously. That's how in-demand this amazing campground is. Located deep in the northern woods of Brighton Recreation Area, Murray Lake provides its fortunate campers with immediate access to the full spectrum of Brighton's world-class outdoor recreation opportunities . The campground conveniently sits right off of Brighton Rec's famous Mountain Biking Loop trail system, one of the three prestigious "Black Diamond" trails in the entire Detroit region. The campground is also a short hike from the even more famous Penosha Trail , consistently ranked as one of the best trails in the entire state of Michigan. And, of course, the campground's immediate access to its namesake Murray Lake means that you will be treated to a lakeside sunset by your campfire. Each site at Murray Lake Campground features a picnic table and fire pit. Other amenities include potable water and vault toilets. Advanced reservation required to book a site. DISCOVER BRIGHTON STATE RECREATION AREA  WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Photo courtesy of Li (仙人掌) 3. CROOKED LAKE CAMPGROUND | Pinckney State Recreation Area Number of Sites: 25 Arrival Logistics: Hike-In, Bike-In, or Drive-In Reservable Dates: April 1st - November 29th Cost: $20/night, plus additional fees If you're looking for a slightly more accessible - but still rustic - stay at Pinckney Recreation Area, then Crooked Lake Campground has the ideal setup for what you're looking for. Intrepid recreationists can still readily hike or bike into camp from the main Silver Lake Trailhead along the Potawatomi Trail, although Crooked Lake's 25 sites also accommodate car-camping enthusiasts. Although this attribute of Crooked Lake may detract from its "wilderness solitude" aesthetic a-la-Blind Lake, Crooked Lake has one key feature that makes it a massive draw for especially paddlers and anglers: The Fishing Pier . That's right - Crooked Lake features a fishing pier/boat launch that provides an ideal location for kicking back and casting a line or setting off towards a sunset over the waves. As fantastic as secluded, forested campsites are, there's just something ethereal about kicking your boots off after a long hike and dipping your feet into crisp, fresh water. Each site at Crooked Lake Campground features a picnic table and fire pit. Other amenities include potable water and vault toilets. Advanced reservation required to book a site. 4. ISLAND LAKE CANOE CAMPGROUND | Island Lake State Recreation Area Number of Sites: 2 Arrival Logistics: Paddle-In Reservable Dates: April 1st - October 31st Cost: $20/night, plus additional fees Spending a night at Island Lake Recreation Area's Canoe Campground should be on every local outdoor enthusiast's "Bucket List." Why? Well, for starters, the sites are the most limited to book out of this "Top Five" list. As noted above, there are only 2 sites available for reservation at the campground. The scarcity of the sites is fortunately diluted by a one night-maximum stay per reservation, but still...book while you can. The second reason - and far more adventurous one - involves how you arrive at your site. As you probably guessed, there's only one way in or out of the Canoe Campground: via canoe (or kayak/paddleboard). One would think that " Canoe Camping " would be an immensely common way to camp in the Detroit region given our plethora of water, but amazingly Island Lake is only one of four legitimate canoe campgrounds throughout the entire Detroit region . In other words, Canoe Camping remains a relatively niche method of camping throughout our region - all the more reason to book a site, pack up your kayak with some dry bags, and paddle down the Huron River to an unforgettable experience. Island Lake's Canoe Campground is located 0.5 miles downstream of the Riverbend Picnic Shelter launching point. Amenities include a vault toilet, fire ring, picnic table and grill. There is no potable water available, so please bring your own water or water filter. Advanced reservation required to book a site. EXPLORE ISLAND LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA  WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Photo courtesy of Campendium Inc. 5. GREEN LAKE CAMPGROUND | Waterloo State Recreation Area Number of Sites: 25, not including the Green Lake Yurt Arrival Logistics: Hike-In, Bike-In, or Drive-In Reservable Dates: April 1st - November 29th for rustic sites; year-round for Green Lake Yurt Cost: $20/night, plus additional fees Last but certainly not least, we proudly present Waterloo Recreation Area's premiere camping destination, the Green Lake Campground . Located on the northeastern edge of Waterloo's expansive 20,000 acres, Green Lake marks roughly the mid-way point of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail and as such is frequented by backpackers, bike-packers, and car campers alike. The 25 sites in the campground overlook the idyllic Green Lake, including its golden sunsets and ample bird-watching opportunities. For our niche "glamping" readers, Green Lake also offers something special just for you: its regionally-famous, heated, open year-round Green Lake Yurt . The Yurt sleeps 5 people and comes outfitted with 2 futons, solar powered lights inside ( lantern or flashlight also recommended ), small table, propane cooking stove, and an outdoor grill. The Green Lake Rustic Campground is located near the DTE Energy Foundation Trail , Waterloo Pinckney Trail , and the Border-to-Border Trail . The campground includes vault toilets and a hand pump available for water. Advanced reservation required to book a site. This article includes Michigan camping insights published within Matt Forster's fantastic guide book Best Tent Camping: Michigan (3rd Edition) . We couldn't recommend this book any more for our regional outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the Detroit region and beyond. What are your favorite campgrounds? Is there a particular "hidden gem" near Detroit that you have been camping at for years that deserves a special spotlight? Let us know in the comments!

No ropes, no worries. Live your next adventure in Metro Detroit exploring each of the "5 Summits" - Expedition Detroit's favorite destinations for hiking the most iconic hilltops near Detroit! There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing, and mountaineering. All the rest are merely games. Those aren't my words, although I appreciate the hot take. No; those were spoken (likely after a Papa Doble or two) by Ernest Hemingway , the renown American author whose appetite for adventure rivaled that of Theodore Roosevelt. What's the commonality among these three true "sports"? According to Outdoor Research , simply because they can kill you. However, according to Hemingway scholars, these three endeavors mandate that one achieves the best performance that they personally can for success - or else face potentially fatal consequences. For us at Expedition Detroit , the beauty of mountaineering - or reaching any summit or high point - lies in the pursuit's binary definition of success. You summit, or you do not. Your body and willpower lead you to a place of prominence, or they do not. And, once such a feat has been accomplished, it can never be taken from you. You will have earned the ability to share your experience, guide others, or reflect back on a special moment in your life's grand journey. Simply because you did it. Will you experience breath-taking, snowcapped mountaintop sunrises within the Detroit region? No - we unfortunately are not blessed with such topography. However, the Detroit region is not nearly as flat as most residents and non-residents alike tend to think. I trained entirely for my Kilimanjaro summit along the rolling trails listed within this article, as well as several other rigorous trails like Pontiac Lake's MTB Trail and Highland's A-B-C-D Trail System . The net result? In part, the credibility to write this article. Summits and high points - no matter the altitude - are worthy of exploring and celebrating . From their geographic significance to remoteness to prominence along a favorite trail, reaching a summit should always warrant a brief moment to pause, take in your surroundings, take a sip of water (or trail beer), and smile. Because that adventurous moment, lived and experienced here in Metro Detroit, will forever be yours. Let's start the adventure. Here are Expedition Detroit's 5 Summits : the most iconic hilltops near Detroit. 1. Wayne Hill | Maybury State Park | Northville, Michigan Elevation : 990 feet Why Iconic : Highest point in Wayne County Summit Location : Red marker on top of moraine ridge Recommended Route : Wayne Hill Peak Loop Trail Imagine standing at "Sunset Point" on Belle Isle Park's western tip, right at the point where you can reach down and feel the crisp water of the Detroit River. At that exact point, you are standing at Wayne County's lowest elevation of 571 feet. From Belle Isle, if you were to cross the MacArthur Bridge, continue west along the Detroit Riverfront Trail and Southwest Greenway until reaching Michigan Avenue, continue towards Dearborn until finding the Hines Park Trail , and then keep climbing through Downtown Northville until reaching Maybury State Park , you will have traversed the entirety of Wayne County. Both geographically and topographically. Nestled deep within the rolling forest of Maybury State Park - just south of the Oakland-Wayne County border - stands Wayne County's highest point, "Wayne Hill." Although the lowest elevation on this list, Wayne Hill actually provides one of the best vistas out of the 5 Summits due to a deep ravine and sprawling wetlands located directly below its summit. While there is a short ( yet steep ) access trail that leads directly to the summit, its unceremonious red marker can be easy to miss. That is, of course, until we work with our friends at Maybury to install a prominent, permanent marker. Stay tuned. EXPLORE MAYBURY STATE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 2. Prospect Hill | Waterloo State Recreation Area | Chelsea, Michigan Elevation : 1,150 feet Why Iconic : Highest point on the celebrated Waterloo-Pinckney Trail Summit Location : Stone/concrete marker at summit Recommended Route : Waterloo Pinckney Trail ( Pines Campground to Green Lake segment ) Every major climb, anywhere on earth, has one shared feature: switchbacks. Yes, the consistent zig-zagging can absolutely evolve into logistical annoyance once the summit comes into view. That being said, anyone who's attempted a straight-shot approach to the top can attest to how much these extra turns bless your quads. With enough summits, they become a welcomed sight for experienced eyes. That's why I let out a joyful shout ring out when the Prospect Hill switchbacks came into view along my 2023 traverse of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail . For the uninitiated, the WPT is the Detroit region preeminent backpacking trail, encompassing over 30 miles of rugged moraine backpacking. There are several high points along the WPT, including the famous Sackrider Hill (1,125'), although the highest point is the lesser-publicized Prospect Hill. Why did the switchbacks elicit joy? Two main reasons: (1) switchbacks signal that a truly, and relatively arduous, "summit" is within grasp and (2) t he Waterloo-Pinckney Trail shares common elements with every major, celebrated thru-hiking trail on the planet . That's worth a celebratory trail beer atop the hill's summit monument. 3. Pontiac Lake Peak | Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area | White Lake, Michigan Elevation : 1,154 feet Why Iconic : Remote high point of Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area Summit Location : Unmarked along ridge just south of Equestrian Trail Recommended Route : Pontiac Lake Peak Trail via Hiking Trail Some summits you need to work extra hard for, and not just in terms of effort. For Team Expedition Detroit , reaching the highest point of Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area - which we have taken the creative liberty of naming " Pontiac Lake Peak " - began several months ago. Due to its relatively remote and disputed location, we cross-referenced data from peakbagger.com and similar online forums to determine how to best discover and access PLRA's highest point in line with " Leave No Trace " principles. Our research uncovered that the park has two peaks that are located within a quarter mile of each other. One off-trail, the other directly on. We had no choice but to investigate. Which I literally just did. As I type these words, I am just a few short hours removed from standing atop of each of the "peaks" ( yet another testament to the accessibility of adventure within the Detroit region ). I hiked in for the sole purpose of pressing my Garmin watch , with its built-in altimeter, against the snow-covered hilltops to determine exactly which summit was the "true summit." Friends, we can confidently confirm that the true summit, Pontiac Lake Peak, is located along an isolated ridge just south of the park's Equestrian Trail. Unmarked ( for now ), near an oak tree, with 360º views during the offseason months. Don't worry - we created a 4 mile hiking route along Pontiac Lake's Hiking and Equestrian Trails that guides you to the Equestrian Trail Summit and Pontiac Lake Peak, including a Leave No Trace-aligned route to the Peak. EXPLORE PONTIAC LAKE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Mount Kanzer | Highland State Recreation Area | Highland, Michigan Elevation : 1,160 feet Why Iconic : Highest point of Highland State Recreation Area Summit Location : Concrete marker along tree just south of trail Recommended Route : Mount Kanzer via Milford Connector Trail Highland Recreation Area truly lives up to its name. Within the park's ~6,000 acres, there are several iconic moraine hilltops that could've easily made this list. Exploring Haven Hill (1,060') - the historic family home of Edsel Ford - is a quintessential Detroit region outdoor experience. Teeple Hill and its adjacent Peak 1083 both reach elevations of 1,083 feet. Last but certainly not least, Mt. Omich (1,139') constitutes the high point of the Chief Pontiac Trail's northern segment . Shockingly, the least famous of the aforementioned high points of Highland is its highest: Mount Kanzer. Rising clandestinely within the park's least-visited southwestern area, Mt. Kanzer reaches its apex at 1,160 feet (according to peakbagger.com and Strava). In the warmer months, Mount Kanzer is relatively popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers - anyone looking for a cardio challenge in charging up its steep eastern slope . When the snow is falling, we strongly recommend Mt. Kanzer for snowshoeing or even backcountry skiing adventures . Oh, we almost forgot - we lead a weekly guided hike to its summit as well. SUMMIT MT. KANZER WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Kerr Hill | Ortonville State Recreation Area | Metamora, Michigan Elevation : 1,229 feet Why Iconic : Highest point in the Detroit Region's State Park System Summit Location : Unmarked; earth mound within forest near Fox Lake Rd. trailhead Recommended Route : Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loop Trail Ladies and gentlemen, this is it. We've done our homework. Scoured the Internet. Joined a peak-bagging Reddit thread or two. And, of course, laced up our boots to confirm . Kerr Hill : the highest point at 1,229 feet within the Detroit region's system of Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas. We're not crowning Kerr Hill the tallest point in the Detroit region. That title actually belongs to Mt. Brighton ski resort's prominent summit of 1,330 feet, and is followed by a handful of other privately-owned high points in Oakland and Lapeer Counties. But that's also what makes Kerr Hill so special - especially since the hilltop is located within the Detroit region's least-visited Michigan State Park . Kerr Hill constitutes a publicly accessible, prominent, and adventure-worthy destination that few outdoor enthusiasts have ever heard of - let alone conquered. As we highlighted in our recent #TrailTuesday, one should not find summiting Kerr Hill as a very arduous endeavor. At least not from the trailhead; the Fox Lake Rd. trailhead parking lot is approximately 0.1 miles from the forested area that contains the unmarked summit. However, we strongly encourage you to hike the entire Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loop Trail to truly experience Kerr Hill in all of its prominence. The final climb will get your heart pumping. We guarantee it. SHORT HISTORY OF DETROIT'S TALLEST RANGE If we were to time travel 16,000 years back, we would all be cold. Very, vey cold. In fact, we would find ourselves conveniently buried under a mountain of ice titled the Laurentide Ice Sheet that extended from the Arctic Circle to southern Indiana and Ohio. Over a 3,000 year period, the Laurentide Ice Sheet gradually receded into ice masses called "lobes," with the two most prominent lobes over the Detroit region comprising of the western Saginaw and eastern Huron-Erie lobes. Thankfully for our resident hiking, mountain biking, and downhill skiing enthusiasts, these lobes did not recede uniformly across the Detroit region . To the contrary, as the bulk of each of these lobes receded, any terrain caught in the "no man's land" between them found itself irrevocably transformed by the massive deposits of converged sand and gravel left in the wake of the receding glaciers. While the diminishing lobes flattened most of the Detroit region, this narrow strip of terrain with steep ridges, extensive hills, and " kettle pools " left by abandoned glacial deposits, remained a striking contrast against its surrounding swamps and grasslands. Map of the Jackson Interlobate Region; photo courtesy of ResearchGate GmbH This rugged landscape was further defined by the chaotic manner in which the lobes handled their multi-millennia retreat. The melt-back of the lobes was neither a continuous nor a steady process, including several periods of resurgence followed by short retreats, more advances, and more retreats. In the interlobate regions, where initial soil deposits from earlier retreats already presented obstacles for the path of any resurgent glaciers, these episodes meant that unfortunate deposits from intact glaciers were further piled on top of the growing hills in increasingly dramatic fashion. Most of the stunning Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas located within the Jackson Interlobate Range date back to 1943. Over the next 80 years, the rebranded Michigan Department of Natural Resources , the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Authority , and local municipalities collaborated to purchase and preserve hundreds of thousands of acres across this region. Thanks to such actions, recreationists crossing several generations have explored and appreciated the beauty of the JIR, and the region has continued to serve as the natural home for rare species and habitats. Want to explore the Detroit region's highest peaks and best trails with a guide? Look no further! Expedition Detroit proudly leads guided trips across 11 Michigan state parks and recreation areas. Book your next adventure by CLICKING HERE !

Detroit's outdoor floodgates are open! May's arrival signals the launch of "primetime" for our region's recreational ecosystem, and these " Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit " are perfect for exploring the wealth of outdoor experiences waiting for you this May. Guess what...it's gonna be May (in Detroit's outdoors). What does that mean exactly? In the Detroit region, that means the floodgates of outdoor recreation are flung wide open. An endless smorgasbord of races, family-friendly events, industry expos, and good ol' fashion camping and stargazing under the warmth of a mid-spring night. With our parks and trails now firing on all fronts, spring in Metro Detroit's outdoors can represent a chaotic, daunting challenge. Like a child walking into Disney World for the first time, the sudden inundation of recreational opportunities available to us can be paralyzing. As we all recalibrate to primetime in our outdoors, these Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit will ease the transition by providing fun, engaging, challenging, and rewarding experiences for the whole family to enjoy. Plus ...we've thrown in a few special discounts for you to enjoy. Happy May - we can't wait to see you outside! 1. Celebrate Resiliency at the Trauma Survivors 5K May 3rd   | Belle Isle Park | 8:40 a.m.   The month of May packs in a lot of festive flair . From the " It's Gonna be May " memes to Star Wars Day, Mother's Day to Memorial Day, the entire month seems to celebrate a resurgence of life that could only accommodate Spring's natural revival. May also has another important feature: National Mental Health Awareness Month . Thirty-one days' worth of recognition that even in the midst of the festivities, we all need to prioritize caring for our mental health alongside our physical health. As well as support those still healing from the physical and mental trauma of devastating injuries. This May, we encourage you to put your support into action by joining a scenic run/walk that celebrates the courage and strength of individuals who have faced and overcome traumatic injuries. The " Trauma Survivors 5K 5K Run/1 Mile Walk " will take place at stunning Belle Isle Park , and offer a unique opportunity for survivors, family members, and healthcare providers to reconnect through outdoor recreation. Participants will take in the gorgeous views of the Detroit River, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Belle Isle, and celebrate their amazing accomplishments along the way . 2. Jumpstart #TrailSeason at "Trail Fest Demo Day and $5 5K" Event May 3rd   | Brighton State Recreation Area   | 9:00 a.m. ICYMI, we have JUST entered peak #TrailSeason in the Detroit region . The lingering ice, snow, and torrential rains from early April have subsided. Our pristine campgrounds are open. And our envy-worthy trail system is primed for fueling your hiking, trail running, and backpacking adventures. Ready to jumpstart your 2025 Trail Season? Head over to Brighton Recreation Area THIS SATURDAY for " Trail Fest Demo Day and $5 5K ," a truly unique and immersive expo sponsored by Running Lab and several partners in the Detroit region's outdoor recreation industry - including a little company called Expedition Detroit . The event will take place in the Bishop Lake Road Trailhead, and everyone who attends Trail Fest will receive one raffle ticket. But wait, there's more - if you participate in the "$5 5K" (with all proceeds supporting Brighton Recreation Area's trail maintenance), you'll earn an additional five raffle tickets. That's right, a 5-5-5 special. We're stoked. We'll see you there. EXPLORE BRIGHTON RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 3. Celebrate Detroit's Fishing Heritage at Riverfront Fish Fest May 3rd   | Milliken State Park   | 10:00 a.m. Spring fishing in the Detroit region represents a time-honored tradition. Not only because generations of Detroiters have bonded while casting lines into the abundant Detroit River. Responsible fishing has also restored native fish populations to healthy, sustainable levels - including saving the prehistoric Lake Sturgeon from near extinction at the turn of the 21st century. Now that's worth celebrating - and for the FIRST TIME this year, the Detroit Riverfront is hosting the perfect event for doing so. THIS SATURDAY , head down to Milliken State Park along the riverfront to celebrate " Riverfront Fish Fest , " sponsored by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Michigan DNR, and the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge! This inaugural Fish Fest will provide an exciting, fun-filled day on the Detroit Riverfront that brings together two beloved events: "Sturgeon Day" AND "Kids Fishing Fest." This family-friendly event is FREE to attend and the perfect opportunity to explore the wonders of wildlife and conservation while also experiencing the world of fishing. Expedition Detroit is a proud proponent of fishing, hunting, and other wildlife conservation activities occurring throughout the Detroit region. To learn more about the value of conservation throughout Michigan, please check out the Michigan Wildlife Council . 4. Protect Your Parks at a DNR Volunteer Workday May 10th and 20th | Bald Mountain Recreation Area | 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. As Mahatma Gandhi so eloquently stated, " Action expresses priorities ." As applied to our region's outdoors, the Expedition Detroit team interprets this statement as a call to care for the people and places that you value, and that your values should further manifest into action. We care immensely for our wildest, most pristine outdoor destinations, as well as for the team at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources that so diligently cares for them. Any opportunity to assist the DNR with their operations is an opportunity well-worth seizing. Fortunately for all of us, the DNR has taken the lead in sponsoring two official "Volunteer Stewardship Workday" events at Bald Mountain State Recreation Area this month: May 10th at 9 a.m. May 20th at 4 p.m. Volunteers will meet at the East Graham Boat Launch parking lot on the north side of Predmore Road in the park's North Unit. Work crew activities will focus on eliminating highly invasive garlic mustard that threatens to take over woodland environments. Long pants, long sleeve shirts, and closed-toe boots are recommended for these events. Register by emailing Emily Leslie at LeslieE1@Michigan.gov . 5. Meet the Game-Changers in Detroit's Recreation Industry at the "Partner Expo" May 17th | DNR Outdoor Adventure Center, Detroit, MI | 11 a.m. Michigan's outdoor recreation industry - and specifically Detroit's - is enjoying a stratospheric rise. In just a few short, exponential years, our region's investment in its outdoor destinations, experience providers, and retailers has caught the eye of the international media . Southeast Michigan is now regularly cited as a primetime destination to experience world-class outdoor recreation, from our award-winning riverfront, to plazas, to industry-redefining trail network . This month, we all have an opportunity to meet the regional partners that have facilitated such explosive growth in our outdoors at the " Partner Expo "! Come on down to the OAC to meet the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' Metro Detroit-based community partners in recreation, leisure and health services. The DNR's partners will be sharing news about their impactful work and the services they provide to families throughout the region. There are two other perks to attending the Partner Expo: Admission to the event is complimentary to your ticket to the incredible OAC; and We'll be there. Just saying. 6. Wear Teal & Start a New Holiday Tradition with Mom May 11th | Ann Arbor, MI | 8 a.m. My Mom always encouraged an active, outdoor lifestyle for my brothers and I. Long before I ever had aspirations towards long-distance running , my dear mother all but forced me to run a few miles each day in order for me to get a less-than-fit middle schooler in-shape for my upcoming sports tryouts. Mother truly knew best - even if my angsty younger self vehemently disagreed. A few decades later, I can properly thank and celebrate her by signing us both up for a special Mother's Day 5K race: the Mother's Day Time to Teal Run in Downtown Ann Arbor ! Beyond representing another holiday 5K tradition to add the list, this event both celebrates the incredible women in our lives AND raises awareness for ovarian cancer. A portion of registration fees also support the mission and operations of the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance , so you (and mom) will truly be running for a cause. Expedition Detroit is proud to partner with the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance in promoting this important event! We will also be raffling an " Expedition Bundle " guided hiking package in support of the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance's mission and operations. We hope to see you there - and don't forget to wear teal! 7. Celebrate the Aquatic Life at the Huron River Day Festival May 18th | Gallup Park, Ann Arbor, MI | 12 p.m. The Huron River - the central vein of the Detroit region's recreational ecosystem - is worth celebrating every day of every season . That's undeniable. However , the Huron truly comes alive in May, both in terms of returned wildlife, wildflower blooms - and the influx of paddlers and anglers eager to experience both! In honor of the Huron, the City of Ann Arbor's Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual " Huron River Day " festival at Gallup Park! The festival will include discounted boat rentals, children's activities, river exhibits, live music, and food trucks/carts. The festival also includes complementary bicycle tune-ups, half hour guided hikes, and a special performance from Ann Arbor’s own Laith Al-Saadi — finalist from Season 10 of NBC’s “The Voice.” 8. Start Memorial Day on the Right Foot with a Community Race May 26th   | Milford, MI | 8 a.m. Out of all the quintessential trail towns that host special Memorial Day events, Downtown Milford is without a doubt one of our favorites . Beyond the town's annual parade, epic flyovers, and impressive memorial to all of the United States' fallen heroes since the Revolutionary War, Milford's festivities also include a special pre-parade tradition to kick-off its wealth of community events: the annual Milford Memorial Day Run . Sponsored by our #ExpeditionPartner Running Venture , the Milford Memorial Day Run starts at 8 a.m. with its 5K and 10K races along the beautiful Milford-Kensington Trail! A special "Kid's Run" also starts at 9:30 a.m., leaving plenty of time to trek over from the race's finish line at the Carl's Family Y.M.C.A. to Main Street. All runner's will receive a custom shirt, finisher award, and complimentary refreshments. There will also be special awards for the top male and female finishers in each event, along with top 3 in each age group! USE CODE " EXPDET25 " TO SAVE 15% ON THIS RACE! 9. Go Jurassic at the T-Rex Triathlon Series May 28th | Island Lake State Recreation Area | 6 p.m. No sport celebrates the return of warm weather quite like a triathlon . Beyond the practical impossibility of swimming in a frozen Kent Lake during winter, a triathlon forces each participant to embrace the elements as they are . The crisp cool of flowing water. The radiant heat of the trail. The warming rays of the sun. And you, the tri-sport athlete, joined by hundreds of your new best friends navigating the variables of a race designed to challenge and reward you. In our opinion, every outdoor enthusiast should complete at least one triathlon in their life. Fortunately for all of us, our friends at RF Events are hosting four this year within their " T-Rex Spring Triathlon Series ." The first event of the series - the "Stegosaurus Triathlon and Duathlon" - will be held at Island Lake State Recreation Area and consist of both a sprint triathlon (0.5 mile swim, 12.4 mile cycle, and 5K run) and duathlon (1.5 mile run, 12.4 mile cycle, and 5K run) events. All finishers will receive a custom medal and finish-line food! 10. Space Out May at a Dark Sky Preserve May 31st   | Point Pelee National Park, ON | 7:30 p.m.   Finish off a jam-packed May by spacing out into the cosmos over at Point Pelee National Park   - the best stargazing destination in the Detroit region  - for a celebratory " Dark Sky Nights " event! This outing is especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave cooler temperatures at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours, seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos. Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

This Privacy Policy describes the types of information that Expedition Detroit may collect from you when you visit the Site... PRIVACY POLICY AND DISCLOSURES Advertising Policy Expedition Detroit, LLC (“Expedition Detroit” or “we”) may partner with brands, companies, and tourism boards to share commercial opportunities like the latest gear or to highlight exciting adventures and destinations that website visitors may be interested in (collectively, the “Opportunities”). Expedition Detroit may receive certain compensation to write about the Opportunities, which compensation may be paid in the form of money, free gear, tours, or other in-kind compensation. The Opportunities and any compensation that Expedition Detroit may receive from the Opportunities supports its ability to operate and continue creating interesting and valuable content for its media content consumers. Regardless of the Opportunities or any compensation received therefrom, Expedition Detroit will only provide content consisting of genuine and unbiased reviews and articles. If we determine that any of the Opportunities fails to meet Expedition Detroit’s standards for a world-class outdoor experience or gear, then we will decline to post a publication regarding the Opportunity and/or return any compensation received for the Opportunity. Expedition Detroit’s business model is predicated upon highlighting and supporting the best of the best outdoor opportunities within the Detroit region - if an Opportunity does not cross this threshold, then it will not appear within any Expedition Detroit media outlet. Period. Additionally, Expedition Detroit’s blog posts will often contain affiliate links to products listed on Amazon, Backcountry, Evo, Cabelas, and other outdoor retailers. If you purchase a featured item using one of these links, Expedition Detroit will receive a small amount of compensation. This affiliate marketing compensation will not affect the price that you will pay for the listed items, and the modest compensation that Expedition Detroit will earn from affiliate links will support its operations. In 2009, the Federal Trade Commission passed new regulations that require web-based businesses like Expedition Detroit to disclose whenever a blog post contains affiliate links or compensation opportunities. In light of this, please assume that any link to a retailer on Expedition Detroit’s website is an affiliate link. Privacy Policy (Updated 9/27/2022) Expedition Detroit respects your privacy and is committed to protecting it when you visit its web site expeditiondetroit.com (the “Site”). This Privacy Policy describes the types of information that Expedition Detroit may collect from you when you visit the Site, how Expedition Detroit uses the collected information, with whom Expedition Detroit may share it, and the choices that Expedition Detroit offers you regarding its collection and use of such information. Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. If you do not agree with the provisions of this Privacy Policy, please do not use the Site. You can access the Site and browse the Site without disclosing any of your personal data. We do not collect personal information about individuals unless it is knowingly provided by the individual and the individual has agreed to the terms under which the Site will use it. Types of Collected Information Expedition Detroit only collects personal data that you may volunteer while using its services on your own accord (for example, your name and email address). The Site may also collect non-personal information about you, meaning information that does not uniquely identify you, when you interact with the Site. How We Use the Collected Information The Site may use your personal information, such as your name and email address, to: • provide you with requested products and services; • send you requested emails or other information or materials; • respond to your questions and comments and provide customer support; • communicate with you about content releases, products, services, offers, and promotions; • operate, evaluate, and improve our business, the Site, and the products and services we offer; • enforce any agreements; and • comply with applicable legal requirements and industry standards. If we have sent you an email, you may choose not to receive subsequent emails from us by following the unsubscribe instructions contained in each email. 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These third parties may collect information sent by your computer, browser, or mobile device in response to a request for content, such as unique identifiers, your IP address, or other information about your computer or device. For example, we use analytics partners (such as Google Analytics) to help analyze usage and traffic for our Site. This data is anonymous and the Site will not store any personalized data. Expedition Detroit may use IP addresses to compile and provide aggregate statistics about our visitors, traffic patterns, and to administer the Site. These statistics will not include any personally identifiable information; rather, these statistics will track users' movements on the Site and gather general demographic information for aggregate use. IP addresses are not linked to personally identifiable information. You may opt-out of the aggregation and analysis of data collected about you on the Site by Expedition Detroit's elected web analytics vendor by visiting the Site on Google tools and downloading and installing the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on. Disclosure of Information The Site will not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. The Site will not automatically log personal data nor link information automatically logged by other means with personal data about specific visitors to the Site. The Site may release account information when such release is reasonably necessary to comply with applicable law, enforce the terms of any of our user agreements, or protect the rights, property, and safety of Expedition Detroit, the Site, the users of the Site, or others. External Web Sites Please note that the Site contains links to other third party websites. Expedition Detroit is not responsible and shall not be held liable for the privacy practices of these other sites. We encourage our content consumers to be aware that when they leave the Site, they should read the privacy statements of each web site that may collect personally identifying information. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by the Site. If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us . Affiliate Disclaimer Expedition Detroit has financial relationships with a number of companies mentioned within the Site's content, and Expedition Detroit may be compensated if you make a purchase via the links on this website. Transactional Information If you purchase products or services from Expedition Detroit, then we will collect certain information from you needed to fulfill your order, including your name, address, email address, and information about the product or service you are purchasing. Payments are processed by third-party payment processors (e.g., PayPal), so please refer to the applicable processor’s terms and privacy policy for more information about how payment information is processed and stored. Other Information You may choose to provide other information directly to Expedition Detroit. For example, we may collect information when you fill out a form, participate in contests, sweepstakes or promotions, apply for a job, communicate with us via third-party sites and services, request customer support, or otherwise communicate with us. Our Commitment to Children’s Privacy The Site is not directed to children. If a visitor is under 18, then such visitor may only access and use Expedition Detroit's services, including but not limited to the Site, with the involvement of a parent or legal guardian. Changes Expedition Detroit reserves the right to update or change this Privacy Policy at any time. If we do, we will publish notice of such changes by revising the date at the top of the policy. If we make a change to this policy that, in our sole discretion, is material, we will provide you with additional notice. We encourage you to review the Privacy Policy whenever you access or use the Site, any of Expedition Detroit's services that may be offered from time to time, or otherwise interact with Expedition Detroit in order to stay informed about our information practices and the ways you can help protect your privacy. If you continue to use any Expedition Detroit service after any Privacy Policy changes go into effect, then you shall thereby consent to the revised Privacy Policy. Contact Us If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us . Disclaimer The content of the Site is for general information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Neither Expedition Detroit nor its owners, executives, employees, contractors, or agents shall not be held liable for any actions arising from the use of the information on the Site. The Site tries to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of writing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. Visitors to the Site should not act upon the Site’s content or information without first seeking appropriate professional advice. The Site expressly disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, to the extent permitted by law, including but not limited to warranties of satisfactory advice. 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Links taken to other sites are done so at your own risk and Expedition Detroit accepts no liability for any linked sites or their content. When you access an external website, keep in mind that Expedition Detroit has no control over its content. Any link from the Site to an external website does not imply or mean that Expedition Detroit endorses or accepts any responsibility for the content or the use of such website. Expedition Detroit does not give any representation regarding the quality, safety, suitability, or reliability of any external websites or any of the content or materials contained in them. It is important for users to take necessary precautions, especially to ensure appropriate safety from viruses, other cybersecurity risks.

Expedition Detroit is an outdoor recreation media company focused exclusively on outdoor experiences within an hour’s drive of Downtown Detroit. Here is how the media is covering our place in Detroit's outdoors. IN THE MEDIA Detroit's world-class outdoors are making international headlines. A few media outlets have noticed our part in that story. NEWS FEATURES Fresh off the press. Meeting People Where They're At The Tree Line - Heart of the Lakes April 2025 CHECK IT OUT Hit the Trails with Expedition Detroit Michigan Blue Magazine Fall 2024 Issue CHECK IT OUT It's Never Too Late to Start An Endurance Sport - Or Change it Up Fast Talk Laboratories August 22, 2024 CHECK IT OUT Guided Night Hikes Feature Update All Outdoors Update July 24, 2024 CHECK IT OUT Wild Walk: A Guided Hike with Expedition Detroit Troy City Lifestyle July 2024 Issue CHECK IT OUT The Rise of the Adventure Athlete Fast Talk Laboratories April 6, 2024 CHECK IT OUT Michigan Sees Another Year of Double-Digit Growth for Outdoor Industry Bridge Michigan November 21, 2023 CHECK IT OUT Igniting Passion and Purpose The Tree Line - Heart of the Lakes October 2023 CHECK IT OUT Let's Explore Metro Detroit The Log - Motor City Axe April 27, 2023 CHECK IT OUT PODCAST APPEARANCES We like to talk sometimes too. LET'S CONNECT

Hiking, mountain biking, hunting, & outdoor recreation blog featuring adventurous Detroit Michigan destinations, travel tips, & more. Welcome to the Expedition Detroit outdoor adventure blog! ABOUT Detroit is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. That is the core belief of Expedition Detroit , and you're invited to join our growing community that shares this vision. Whether it's a morning hike on a wooded trail, paddling through a pristine river, ripping down a mountain bike trail, finding a new ski line, or watching the sunset from a tree stand, Detroit's outdoors have the natural beauty and wealth of experiences that recreationists of all interests, skill levels, and backgrounds can explore and enjoy. OUR MISSION The mission of Expedition Detroit is to create and accelerate value for Detroit’s emerging outdoor industry. Our business creates content celebrating our region’s best outdoor experiences, leads guided trips for hands-on exploration of our most beautiful destinations, facilitates access to top tier retailers, amplifies key voices within the recreational community, and highlights the value of an outdoor lifestyle. We vow to always support conservation through promoting impactful organizations, educating our community on landmark laws and regulations, and publicizing volunteer opportunities. OUR PASSION Every business has its own definition of success. Ours is simply the moment when our core belief - that Detroit is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting - becomes common knowledge on a global scale. Until then, our passion will drive us to continue innovating within Detroit's outdoor industry. We will always aim to create content and share experiences that inspire new adventures, increase recreational opportunities, support outdoor lifestyles, and protect the best of the Detroit region for generations to come. We can’t wait to see you out there. OUR TEAM Dan Cooke Founder & CEO Dan founded Expedition Detroit in 2022 after starting his career in venture capital as an investor and attorney. His passion for the outdoors, conservation, and the Detroit region inspired him to leave big law and create the company that he had always wanted to work for. Dan was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2024 to the Michigan Wildlife Council due to his work with Expedition Detroit. Away from the office, he is a backcountry skier, wilderness backpacker, competitive trail runner, and backwoods hunter. dcooke@expeditiondetroit.com Bria Sheffer Trail Guide & Featured Contributor Bria was born and raised in southeast Michigan and grew up enjoying everything about the outdoors. Turning her passion into a job, Bria is now the Natural Resources Volunteer Coordinator at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, where she works to manage and preserve natural areas and wildlife throughout the 25,000-acre park system. Certified as a Firefighter Type II, Bria also works on prescribed burns with the Michigan DNR and David Borneman, LLC. When Bria is not out working in the woods, she's hiking in them! She loves taking her camera out on the trail to capture a unique landscape or a favorite bird. Bria also enjoys camping, salmon fishing, snowboarding, and playing guitar. briasheffer@gmail.com Dr. Eric Reilly Featured Health Contributor Dr. Reilly is an anesthesiologist born and raised in Southeast Michigan. Dr. Reilly is currently a Staff Anesthesiologist at Corewell Health in Royal Oak, Michigan. Dr. Reilly is also the Chairman of the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists' Committee on Governmental Affairs. When Dr. Reilly isn't in the hospital saving lives, you can find him in the wilderness - or at least try to. The Doc has an unmatched talent for locating the best off-grid backpacking campsites, untouched powder runs, and bedding grounds for Michigan's most elusive whitetails. EricReillyDO@gmail.com Holly Laginess Marketing Specialist Holly is a digital storyteller with experience in travel, sports, and start ups. When Dan introduced the ideas behind Expedition Detroit, she was captivated by it. She is proud to be a part of a team that is focused on inspiring others to explore and experience the greater Detroit area. When Holly isn't in the office working her nine to five, you can find her on the golf course or walking a trail at Kensington Metropark. info@expeditiondetroit.com