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Set off on a winter wonderland adventure on a GUIDED SNOWSHOE TOUR! This moderate-level guided snowshoe tour leads intrepid adventurers to the highest of Highland's three towering moraines: Mount Kanzer, standing tall at an elevation of 1,160 feet. Starting at the southernmost trailhead of Highland - just north of Downtown Milford off of Weaver Road - the trail takes a southern approach to Mount Kanzer following the rolling "Milford Connector Trail." Once across Cooley Lake Road, the trail loops around Highland's southern marshlands until summiting Mount Kanzer just past the mid-way mark. Don't forget to stay on the lookout for abundant wildlife as you complete your summit push!. 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 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. CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY ARTICLE ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-highland-s-mt-kanzer-trail

Kick start your winter wonderland adventures on a GUIDED SNOWSHOE TOUR! This introductory-level guided snowshoe tour traverses Maybury State Park's beloved main "Hiking Trail Loop." Setting off from the 8 Mile Road trailhead, this 3.1 mile trip crosses the park's "wooded highlands," wildlife-dense marshlands, the picturesque Maybury Pond, and uncover the ruins of the Maybury Sanatorium. 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

Start the new season with an epic winter adventure on a GUIDED SNOWSHOE TOUR! This moderate-level snowshoe tour offers an engaging 3.1-mile loop along the southern bank of the Huron River, through towering pines, and around Proud Lake's stunning central marsh. Your highlight-reel adventure will provide plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, capture breathtaking photos, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of one of southeast Michigan's most beloved wetland habitats. With an easy trail rating and minimal elevation gain, it's perfect for all skill levels! Family-friendly adventure - children under 9 HIKE FREE! VETERANS ALWAYS HIKE FREE! Use code "VETERAN" to redeem. MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Proud Lake Huron River Fishing Site parking lot Trail length: 3.12 miles Elevation Gain: 59 feet Trail Rating: Easy-Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Huron River Fishing Site parking lot CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY FEATURE ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-proud-lake-state-recreation-area-s-new-expedition-loop

Alpine. Brighton. Holly. Pine Knob. You know them, you've skied them, and generations have loved them. But what makes each resort stand out from the pack? Are there any special features, offerings, or other traits that could influence buying one lift ticket over another? We dive into these questions and more in our official Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - updated for the Winter 2026 Season! Ladies and gentlemen, it's time. Sharpen your skis, wax your boards, update your helmet , and buy that jacket  you've had your eyes on.  The snow makers are blowing - and as of today the real stuff is FINALLY falling again - which means winter has arrived in Detroit ! As excited as that makes us, let's hit the pause button real quick and look outside the window. While we at Expedition Detroit  HQ do not see enough of that sweet, fluffy powder to kick off our wishlist of backcountry  skiing and snowshoeing adventures , the snow's delayed arrival highlights an under-appreciated element of our region: We have FOUR premiere ski resorts within an hour's drive of our near-sea level city . Our "Big Four" resorts - Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob  - have formed the bedrock of Detroit's wintry outdoor economy for generations, providing slope access to generations that would otherwise need to travel hundreds of miles for the same experiences. This article provides much-overdue recognition and information regarding each of the Big Four. Beyond providing stats and recommendations, we also want to highlight what makes each of these resorts stand out in their own right. New for the 2025-2026 season ,  we've also included information on each resort's can't-miss events happening throughout this winter. Spoiler alert : you're going to want to ski all four by the time that you finish this article. ALPINE VALLEY SKI RESORT | White Lake, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,210 feet Vertical Drop : 300 feet Total Runs : 19 Pass Affiliation : Regional Season Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Price : $71 ( Monday-Thursday ) or $84 ( Friday-Sunday, Holidays ) Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Weekend Warrior Imagine this : you start your day with a leisurely paddle down the Huron River , launching from Milford Central Park for an out-and-back to Proud Lake State Recreation Area. After a quick refueling stop in Downtown Milford , you bust out the fat tire bike for a ride through either the Milford Mountain Biking Trail or Highland State Recreation Area's A-B-C-D Loops . Still not enough adrenaline for a Saturday? Well, thank God you packed your skis - Alpine Valley Ski Resort  is less than 5 miles away from the Highland MTB trailhead. Beyond having affordable lift ticket prices, Alpine Valley provides the most equal distribution of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes among the Big Four.  The expert-rated slopes feature the resort's terrain park runs, which Alpine Valley has improved significantly in recent years. The resort also boasts the Hornet's Nest Lounge, an ideal après-ski destination for enjoying favorite cocktails, dancing, entertainment, and a panoramic view of Alpine Valley's ski slopes. Regional Season Pass : Alpine Valley, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob are all members of what we're dubbing the " Regional Season Pass . " The Pass costs $850 , so the somewhat steep price tag really only makes sense if you plan to hit these resorts consistently throughout the season. Other resorts included in the Pass that are outside of the Detroit region are Bittersweet (Ostego, MI), Alpine Valley Resort (Elkhorn, WI), and Searchmont (Sioux Ste. Marie, ON). ALPINE VALLEY IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2025-26 SEASON! Check HERE  for real-time conditions. FEATURED WINTER 2026 EVENTS: CARDBOARD CLASSIC   | February 28th, 2026   |   Bring your creativity and ingenuity to the slopes for the Cardboard Classic ! Build a cardboard sled using only cardboard, tape, and paint - and then race it down the front slope. MOUNT BRIGHTON | Brighton, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Saturday) or 8 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,330 feet Vertical Rise : 230 feet Total Runs : 25 Pass Affiliation : Epic All-Day Lift Ticket Prices : $85 ( Monday-Friday ) or $115 ( Saturday-Sunday, Holidays )   Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Jet-Setting Explorer Get ready, Detroit: Mt. Brighton opens for the 2025-26 season THIS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH! Although Mt. Brighton   has been around since 1960, Vail Resorts ' acquisition of the mountain in 2015 breathed new life into the Detroit region's largest man-made ski resort. Vail's acquisition included a $10 million investment into improvements  like new chairlifts, enhanced beginner terrain, new base area facilities and children’s ski and ride school center, innovative terrain parks, and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system. Eight years later, the net results of those improvements includes transforming Mt. Brighton into an "out west enclave" in the Detroit region , including the modern amenities that top-tier skiers and snowboarders should expect from an industry-defining powerhouse like Vail. While the quality of Mt. Brighton's well-manicured runs and cutting-edge facilities provide the most imminent attraction for riders, the value emanating from the resort's Epic Pass  inclusion is undeniably powerful. Especially if you were to purchase the discounted Epic Local Pass , you could ride not only Mt. Brighton to your heart's content, but take a few trips to world-class resorts out west, back east, or around the world with the same pass . As much as we sing the praises of Detroit's outdoor recreation opportunities, we're certainly not immune to the allure of big mountain skiing . Mt. Brighton and its Epic Pass affiliation make such adventures more economic, efficient, and practical for us all. FEATURED WINTER 2026 EVENTS: DUCT TAPE DERBY   | January 17th, 2026   |   Start saving your cardboard to design a vehicle or sled made of only reused cardboard, duct tape, and paint to race down the hill at the Duct Tape Derby ! Join the fun with music, giveaways, outdoor food and bar, and more. DEW AFTER DARK   | January 23rd , 2026   |   Taking night skiing to a whole new level! The Drew After Dark  event features live DJs, a "Rail Jam," glow sticks, giveaways, and more. SLUSH CUP   | March 7th, 2026   |   Check out the annual Slush Cup  for the biggest spring party of the season! Pond skimming competition (age 7+), music, outdoor bar, tons of giveaways and prizes, and more. MT. HOLLY | Holly, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,115 feet Vertical Rise : 350 feet Total Runs : 18 Pass Affiliation : Regional Season Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Prices : $71 ( Monday-Thursday ) or $84 ( Friday-Sunday, Holidays )   Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Downhill Bomber Mt. Holly  may not be the largest or highest of the Big Four, but it packs a big punch right where it matters the most: more vertical feet of downhill than any of the other resorts . Located just on the northwestern edge of the Detroit region, Mt. Holly benefits from the dramatic, rolling hills that define Southeast Michigan's premiere terrain for outdoor recreation.  As such, Mt. Holly's deep descents provide the resort with proportionately more advanced terrain than any of the other Big Four. Similar to Alpine Valley, Mt. Holly also provides the wintry cherry on top for an area already absurdly blessed with outdoor opportunities. The resort is conveniently located in between the western and eastern branches of Holly State Recreation Area , with the park's premiere mountain biking trail  maintained by the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association  located within eyesight of the resort's summit. The eastern branch of Holly State Recreation Area also entails opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing . Legs feeling a little wobbly after capitalizing on the additional vert? Fortunately for all of us, Mt. Holly also features  a spacious Bavarian-style lodge with two cafeterias, a fireplace room, and a lounge with additional fireplaces.  Hard to imagine a better setting to loosen up the boots, order a stein, and kick back after an exhilarating day on the mountain. MT. HOLLY IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2025-26 SEASON! Check HERE  for real-time conditions. FEATURED WINTER 2026 UPDATES: Mt. Holly's new high-speed quad chairlift, "The Lightning Express," is NOW OPERATIONAL! With its completion, Mt. Holly is the only ski resort in the Detroit region with TWO high-speed chairlifts. PINE KNOB SKI & SNOWBOARD RESORT | Clarkston, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Monday - Wednesday) and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Thursday - Friday); Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,202 feet Vertical Rise : 302 feet Total Runs : 17 Pass Affiliation : Regional Season Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Prices : $71 ( Monday-Thursday ) or $84 ( Friday-Sunday, Holidays )   Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Terrain Park Junkie Before I converted to a Detroit region local back in 2007, my family made annual pilgrimages to Southeast Michigan during the winter holidays. One of those trips included a ski day at some local resort I had never heard of: Pine Knob . Aside from the vague, childlike memories of the slopes, I remember my surprise at how quickly we got to and from the resort from our lodging in Bloomfield Hills. All of my other ski trips required either hours in the car towards the Appalachians or a flight to the Rockies - this resort felt practically in our backyard. My childhood experience was far from unique. Located just 30 minutes from the City of Detroit, Pine Knob provides the most accessible ski and snowboard destination for the vast majority of our region's resident recreationists.  Aside from accessibility, Pine Knob stands out as Southeast Michigan's preeminent destination for terrain park opportunities. Over the last few years, the resort's #TheKnobProject initiative has facilitated massive investments  in new jumps, a progression park, a 1000 ft. high-speed tow rope, a "jib bus," and a "monster jump." If you're a terrain park junkie, this is definitely the hill for you. While Pine Knob features extensive terrain parks and intermediate/advanced-rated slopes, the resort also offers plenty of beginner-friendly amenities for newer skiers and snowboarders . The Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard School  is dedicated to providing newer riders with a fun and safe experience within their programs, which include alpine, telemark, snowboarding, and even terrain park lessons for visitors of all ages and abilities. PINE KNOB IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2025-26 SEASON! Check HERE for real-time conditions. Ski season has undeniably arrived in Detroit, but we must note that the Big Four have either just  opened or are about to open, so the slope conditions are less than ideal to say the least. Roughly 50% of each resort's runs are open (Pine Knob currently is ~80% open), but the "skiability" of each mountain's terrain will improve steadily as precipitation and snow-making efforts progress. In other words, primetime is coming, so we encourage you to start making your lift ticket purchases NOW if you haven't already. While waiting for the Detroit region's ski resorts to hit their full capacity, we also recommend checking out the plethora of other winter trail adventure options available across Metro Detroit! As of the writing of this article, the trails across our regional Michigan State Parks and Huron-Clinton Metroparks are in optimal condition for cross-country skiing . The Expedition Detroit team also leads guided snowshoeing treks (including gear rental) across 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas near the city. Is there a specific trail, park, activity, or destination that you would like to see featured in a future Expedition Detroit article? Perfect - we want to hear about it! Please post about it in the comments below or contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com  to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Brighton. Alpine. Holly. Pine Knob. You know them, you've skied them, and generations have loved them. But what makes each resort stand out from the pack? Are there any special features, offerings, or other traits that could influence buying one lift ticket over another? We dive into these questions and more in our official Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - UPDATED FOR THE WINTER 2024 SEASON! Ladies and gentlemen, it's officially time to sharpen your skis, wax your boards, update your helmet , and buy that jacket you've had your eyes on. The snow makers are blowing - and as of today the real stuff is FINALLY falling again - which means winter has arrived in Detroit ! As excited as that makes us, let's hit the pause button real quick and look outside the window. While we at Expedition Detroit HQ do not see enough of that sweet, fluffy powder to kick off our wishlist of backcountry skiing and snowshoeing adventures , the snow's delayed arrival highlights an under-appreciated element of our region: We have four premiere ski resorts within an hour's drive of our near-sea level city . Four destinations that get busy cranking out snow in November while we're still waiting on Jack Frost to show face. Our "Big Four" resorts - Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob - have formed the bedrock of Detroit's wintry outdoor economy for generations, providing slope access to generations that would otherwise need to travel hundreds of miles for the same experiences. This article provides much-overdue recognition and information regarding each of the Big Four. Beyond providing stats and recommendations, we also want to highlight what makes each of these resorts stand out in their own right. New for the 2023-2024 season, we've also included information on each resort's can't-miss events happening throughout this winter. Spoiler alert : you're going to want to ski all four by the time that you finish this article. ALPINE VALLEY SKI RESORT | White Lake, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,210 feet Vertical Rise : 300 feet Total Runs : 17 Pass Affiliation : Multi Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Price : $67 ( Monday-Thursday ) or $82 ( Friday-Sunday, Holidays ) Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Weekend Warrior Imagine this: you start your day with a leisurely paddle down the Huron River , launching from Milford Central Park for an out-and-back to Proud Lake State Recreation Area. After a quick refueling stop in Downtown Milford , you bust out the fat tire bike for a ride through either the Milford Mountain Biking Trail or Highland State Recreation Area's A-B-C-D Loops. Still not enough adrenaline for a Saturday? Well, thank God you packed your skis - Alpine Valley Ski Resort is less than 5 miles away from the Highland MTB trailhead. Beyond having the most affordable lift ticket prices in the Detroit region, Alpine Valley provides the most equal distribution of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes among the Big Four. The expert-rated slopes feature the resort's terrain park runs, which Alpine Valley has improved significantly in recent years. The resort also boasts the Hornet's Nest Lounge, an ideal après-ski destination for enjoying favorite cocktails, dancing, entertainment, and a panoramic view of Alpine Valley's ski slopes. Multi Pass : Alpine Valley, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob are all members of the regional " Multi Pass " network. The Multi Pass costs $825, so snagging this pass will make the most sense if you plan to hit these resorts consistently throughout the season. Other resorts included in the Multi Pass that are outside of the Detroit region are Bittersweet (Ostego, MI), Alpine Valley Resort (Elkhorn, WI), and Searchmont (Sioux Ste. Marie, ON). FEATURED WINTER 2024 EVENTS: PENNY & DAN LIVE   | January 7th and 28th, 2024   |   Close out your January Sundays on the slopes at the Hornet's Nest Lounge for great drinks and live music provided by local artist duo Penny & Dan ! AVSBX KICK-OFF PARTY | January 17th , 2024 | Alpine Valley invites you to head to the Hornet's Nest Lounge for a kick-off party for its 2024 SBX Racing League ! JUSTIN ROSE LIVE   | February 4th and 18th, 2024   |   Close out your February Sundays on the slopes at the Hornet's Nest Lounge for great drinks and live music provided by local country artist Justin Rose ! MT. BRIGHTON | Brighton, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. ( Early Season Hours ); Weekend: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Saturday) or 8 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,330 feet Vertical Rise : 230 feet Total Runs : 24 Pass Affiliation : Epic Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Prices : $60 - 70 (Monday - Friday), $94 (Saturday - Sunday)* * Early season pricing in effect until December 22nd Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Jet-Setting Explorer Although Mt. Brighton has been around since 1960, Vail Resorts ' acquisition of the mountain in 2015 breathed new life into the Detroit region's largest man-made ski resort. Vail's acquisition included a $10 million investment into improvements like new chairlifts, enhanced beginner terrain, new base area facilities and children’s ski and ride school center, innovative terrain parks, and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system. Eight years later, the net results of those improvements includes transforming Mt. Brighton into an "out west enclave" in the Detroit region , including the modern amenities that top-tier skiers and snowboarders should expect from an industry-defining powerhouse like Vail. While the quality of Mt. Brighton's well-manicured runs and cutting-edge facilities provide the most imminent attraction for riders, the value emanating from the resort's Epic Pass inclusion is undeniably powerful. Especially if you were to purchase the discounted Epic Local Pass , you could ride not only Mt. Brighton to your heart's content, but take a few trips to world-class resorts out west, back east, or around the world with the same pass . As much as we sing the praises of Detroit's outdoor recreation opportunities, we're certainly not immune to the allure of big mountain skiing. Mt. Brighton and its Epic Pass affiliation make such adventures more economic, efficient, and practical for us all. FEATURED WINTER 2024 EVENTS: DUCT TAPE DERBY   | January 20th, 2024   |   Start saving your cardboard to design a vehicle or sled made of only reused cardboard, duct tape, and paint to race down the hill at the Duct Tape Derby ! Join the fun with music, giveaways, outdoor food and bar, and more. DEW AFTER DARK   | February 23rd, 2024   |   Taking night skiing to a whole new level! The Drew After Dark event features live DJs, a "Rail Jam," glow sticks, giveaways, and more. SLUSH CUP   | March 2nd, 2024   |   Check out the annual Slush Cup for the biggest spring party of the season! Pond skimming competition (age 7+), music, outdoor bar, tons of giveaways and prizes, and more. MT. HOLLY | Holly, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,115 feet Vertical Rise : 350 feet Total Runs : 19 Pass Affiliation : Multi Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Price : $69 ( Monday - Thursday ) or $82 ( Friday - Sunday, Holidays ) Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Downhill Bomber Mt. Holly may not be the largest, highest, or most glamorous of the Big Four, but it packs a big punch right where it matters the most: more vertical feet of downhill than any of the other resorts. Located just on the northwestern edge of the Detroit region, M t. Holly benefits from the dramatic, rolling hills that define Southeast Michigan's premiere terrain for outdoor recreation. As such, Mt. Holly's deep descents provide the resort with proportionately more advanced terrain than any of the other Big Four. Similar to Alpine Valley, Mt. Holly also provides the wintry cherry on top for an area already absurdly blessed with outdoor opportunities. The resort is conveniently located in between the western and eastern branches of Holly State Recreation Area , with the park's premiere mountain biking trail maintained by the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association located within eyesight of the resort's summit. The eastern branch of Holly State Recreation Area also entails opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing . Legs feeling a little wobbly after capitalizing on the additional vert? Fortunately for all of us, Mt. Holly also features a spacious Bavarian-style lodge with two cafeterias, a fireplace room, and a lounge with additional fireplaces. Hard to imagine a better setting to loosen up the boots, order a stein, and kick back after an exhilarating day on the mountain. FEATURED WINTER 2024 EVENTS: THE DESALLE BROS LIVE   | December 28th - 30th, 2023   |   Head over to the Lift Lounge for live music and good vibes, featuring local artices The DeSalle Bros ! More Winter 2024 Events  at Mt. Holly to come...stay tuned! PINE KNOB SKI RESORT | Clarkston, Michigan Hours : Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Weekend: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday) or 9 p.m. (Sunday) Elevation : 1,201 feet Vertical Rise : 300 feet Total Runs : 17 Pass Affiliation : Multi Pass All-Day Lift Ticket Price : $69 ( Monday - Thursday ) or $82 ( Friday - Sunday, Holidays ) Expedition Detroit Award : Best for the Terrain Park Junkie Before I converted to a Detroit region local back in 2007, my family made annual pilgrimages to Southeast Michigan during the winter holidays. One of those trips included a ski day at some local resort I had never heard of: Pine Knob . Aside from the vague, childlike memories of the slopes, I remember my surprise at how quickly we got to and from the resort from our lodging in Bloomfield Hills. All of my other ski trips required either hours in the car towards the Appalachians or a flight to the Rockies - this resort felt practically in our backyard. My childhood experience was far from unique. Located just 30 minutes from the City of Detroit, Pine Knob provides the most accessible ski and snowboard destination for the vast majority of our region's resident recreationists. Aside from accessibility, Pine Knob stands out as Southeast Michigan's preeminent destination for terrain park opportunities. Over the last few years, the resort's #TheKnobProject initiative has facilitated massive investments in new jumps, a progression park, a 1000 ft. high-speed tow tope, a "jib bus," and a "monster jump." If you're a terrain park junkie, this is definitely the hill for you. While Pine Knob features extensive terrain parks and intermediate/advanced-rated slopes, the resort also offers plenty of beginner-friendly amenities for newer skiers and snowboarders . The Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard School is dedicated to providing newer riders with a fun and safe experience within their programs, which include alpine, telemark, snowboarding, and even terrain park lessons for visitors of all ages and abilities. FEATURED WINTER 2024 EVENTS: MERRY MITTEN CLASSIC   | December 23rd, 2023   |   A celebration of Michigan snowboard culture, the 5th annual Merry Mitten Classic will feature a jam session, shoutouts, prizes, and an epic apres party. More Winter 2024 Events at Pine Knob Ski & Snowboard Resort to come...stay tuned! Ski season has undeniably arrived in Detroit, but we must note that the Big Four just opened over the past few weeks, so the slope conditions are less than ideal to say the least. Roughly 50% of each resort's runs are open, but the "skiability" of each mountain's terrain will improve steadily as precipitation and snow-making efforts progress. In other words, primetime is coming, so we encourage you to start making your lift ticket purchases NOW if you haven't already. We're closing out this article with a quick, shameless plug for our #EmbraceTheDark series . Each of these resorts offer exceptional night skiing and riding opportunities, so we invite you to join us in occasionally switching up our chilly night hikes or bikes for some hot laps at your resort of choice. Fortunately, no additional night gear is required for skiing or snowboarding under the lights - just bring the right lift ticket and a spirit of adventure. We'll see you at the top of the hill.

'Tis the season for holly, jolly outdoor adventures   - and we are stoked for them all! As you navigate the madness of the holidays, here are the top ten outdoor events near Detroit  to guide you through this most festive of months. Happy holidays, Detroit! In case you haven't heard, it's the most wonderful time of the year..! And yes, not only because of the holiday season. The Expedition Detroit  team is STOKED  for a December that's JAM-PACKED with world-class outdoor events in the Detroit region, which shouldn't come as a surprise for our resident outdoor enthusiasts. To be fair, December can be a polarizing month - less in terms of Santa's homestead and more regarding attitudes towards outdoor recreation. The Winter Solstice  hitting mid-month means that December brings the shortest and some of the coldest days of the year. Add in the seasonal work and holiday commitments, the net result is that the odds for experiencing bountiful outdoor recreation thin out a bit. That, dear friends, represents the greatest gift that you will receive this month.  December rings in opportunities for intrepid recreationists that simply do not exist mid-summer. Virtually empty running, hiking, and kayaking trails. Prime time for fat tire biking season. Expeditious s nowshoeing and cross-country skiing  routes. Fresh groomer tracks at Detroit's ski resorts. Extended hunting  periods. An entire season ripe for outdoor innovation. Put differently, December provides us all with two options : hibernate until spring, or fully embrace and capitalize on the gift that is winter in Detroit. You already know which option we're choosing, so we're kicking off our winter expeditions with these awesome top ten outdoor events near Detroit for December . Photo courtesy of Vail Resorts Management Company. 1. Earn First Tracks at Detroit's "Big Four" Ski Resorts All December | Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob Resorts It's only December 2nd, but thanks to the post-Thanksgiving WHITE OUT that we just received, we're already behind on this announcement: SKI SEASON IS HERE! That's right - as of the writing of this article, 3 out of 4 of Detroit's " Big Four Ski Resorts " are open  for riding! We state this with a little bit of a caveat - all four resorts are largely still in the snowmaking/accumulating process , even with the recent powder that the Snow Gods have blessed us with. Conditions are only going to heat up ( er , cool down?) as this month progresses, so in the interim we'll be purchasing our season passes (relevant links here  and here ), sharpening our skis, and dreaming of those sweet, deep powder runs at one of Detroit's four premiere resorts: Mt. Holly , Pine Knob , Alpine Valley , and Mt. Brighton . Photo courtesy of the State of Michigan 2. Explore the Enchanted Borealis Trail Throughout December   | Seven Lakes State Park   |  5:30 p.m. As you're aware, the Expedition Detroit  Team is all about embracing nighttime recreation opportunities ( #EmbraceTheDark ) this time of year. While most nocturnal exploration requires a high degree of independent preparation, the folks at Seven Lakes State Park  have greatly simplified this process by hosting their annual " Enchanted Borealis Trail " night hiking events on December 5th and 12th ! The park encourages hikers to meander through the forest by following a one-mile lantern-lit path and enjoy some colorful holiday lights along the way. The hike starts at the Dickinson Picnic Shelter. The event is free, although as an additional option, you can rent your own campfire spot for $20 (wood and fire starting included). Reservations are required for specific time slots to avoid overfilling available parking. 3. Run like Rudolph in a Holiday Race December 6th   | Throughout the Detroit Region   | 9:30 a.m. Remember those few extra pounds that you may or may not have packed on during Thanksgiving..? Well, lucky for you, 2025's holiday race season didn't end with that Turkey Trot your in-laws dragged you out of bed to run. To the contrary, 'tis the season for Christmas-themed races , so you'll burn off those extra turkey pounds in no time. The holiday race season, all of your favorite running Santas will be coming to towns across the Detroit region this Saturday, December 6th . Starting in Utica, the Eggnog Jog  kicks off at 9:30 a.m. Dexter's annual " Holiday Hustle " then sprints off with their half marathon race at 11 a.m., followed by community-favorites 1 mile and 5K events respectively at 4 and 4:30 p.m. Last but certainly not least, Saline's " Merry Mile " closes out the festive racing at 5:30 p.m. 4. Go Big for Global Fat Tire Bike Day December 6th   | Island Lake State Recreation Area  | 10 a.m. Wait, you didn't think that December had enough holidays..? Neither did we, along with the international biking community . Along with other holiday traditions, the most ardent of cyclists switch out their slimmer summer tires for their fatter, snow-ready tires in early December. Fortunately, this isn't a niche sect of the biking faithful - the sport of fat tire biking has grown to such an extent that this seasonal passage has become memorialized into a global holiday. A holiday occurring this Saturday, December 6th. Ready to take your fat tire for its maiden seasonal voyage? New to fat tire biking and wondering where you can catch a glimpse of the festive action? We've got you: head to Island Lake State Recreation Area for the official Southeast Michigan Global Fat Bike Day festivities . Riders will be setting out from the Spring Mill Pond parking lot  to tackle " The Badlands " region of the park. Salsa Heyday! Cues Fat-Tire Bike - save 19% at REI.com until December 31st! 5. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve December 13th   | Point Pelee National Park    | 6 p.m.   Sometimes the best break from the frenzy of the holidays is to do nothing. Well, almost nothing - hiking through a national park to experience some of the   best stargazing in the Detroit region  definitely counts as doing something. Fortunately for us, Point Pelee National Park  saves the day yet again as our region's sole Dark Sky Preserve : the ideal location for gazing into the cosmos and tuning out the world for an extraterrestrial outing. Point Pelee's " Dark Sky Nights "   are especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave near-freezing temperatures at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours, seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) will be onsite with telescopes to facilitate star gazing. RASC attendance is weather permitting as cloudy skies inhibit night sky viewing. Cloudy skies or clear, the park will be open until 12 am unless otherwise stated. 6. Have Yourself a Merry Little Hunt Throughout December (and beyond) | Statewide in Michigan Wait - you didn't think that   whitetail deer season   ended in November, right ...? If you did, don't sweat it. Most Michiganders only associate deer hunting with "primetime" firearm season  during the last two weeks of November. However, deer season continues all the way until the very end of January. In fact, Detroit-region hunters have the most expansive and inclusive hunting opportunities  in the entire state . Here's a quick reference guide for the remaining schedule for deer season near Detroit: Period Dates Equipment Regulations Location Muzzleloader December 5th - 14th A muzzleloading rifle or black powder handgun loaded with black powder or a commercially manufactured black powder substitute Statewide Antlerless Firearm December 15th - January 11th All firearm regulations apply Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, Wayne, and St. Clair Counties Urban Archery December 1st - January 31st Compound and crossbow; must wear hunter orange during firearm periods Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, Wayne, and St. Clair Counties This season, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources  has specifically called on lower peninsula hunters to play a critical role in the DNR's conservation strategy . More specifically, in order to alleviate the significant stress that an overpopulation of deer has levied upon the lower peninsula's ecosystem, the DNR is pleading for hunters to focus primarily on harvesting a doe . Increased doe harvests will also provide the long-term benefits  of reduced cases of disease transmission, vehicle accidents involving deer, and destruction of farmland. GEAR UP FOR THE SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 7. Seize the Day on a Winter Solstice Hike December 21st   | Lake Erie Metropark   |   2 p.m. Winter is coming.  For many, that may invoke a feeling of dread - or a signal to start looking at flights south. For Expedition Detroit , on the other hand, that means an opportunity to kick the " Friluftsliv " lifestyle into high gear. The Detroit region's generous snowfall and shorter days mean incredible cross-country skiing , snow shoeing , and night hiking opportunities . Plus, the fair-weather crowds leave our pristine natural environment virtually vacant. And that all officially kicks off on December 21st - the " Winter Solstice " - which is also the shortest day of the calendar year. This solstice, our friends at Lake Erie Metropark  invite you to seize the fleeting daylight on their nature trails on an educational Winter Solstice Hike ! The guides will dive deep into the why and how the winter solstice happens, and what that means for the natural world around us. This program is entirely outdoors, lasts approximately 120 minutes, will be spent on a leisurely walk with frequent stops. The hike will conclude at the Lake Erie Marshlands Museum. The planned path surface is dirt and gravel, mostly flat and level. EXPLORE A NIGHT HIKE SAFARI  WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of Glenlore Trails 8. Experience the Winter Wonderland of Glenlore Trails Throughout December  | Glenlore Trails, Commerce, Michigan   | 7 p.m. This holiday season, Glenlore Trails  invites you to step into "Aurora," an illuminated winter wonderland! Step into the enchanted forest, where every visitor becomes part of the story. As you journey through an illuminated forest, your presence and interactions help the "Winter Wizards" push back the gloom — a creeping chill that threatens to dim the spirit of the holidays. Want to add a little extra magic? Optional magic wands (available for $20 before you enter the trail) let you reveal hidden moments and awaken extra magic along the path. Each wave of your wand strengthens the Wizards’ power and brings new surprises to life! Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a memorable date night, Aurora offers a truly immersive experience that will bring the holiday season to life! Aurora will be open until December 28th. 9. Wander Into Winter with Expedition Detroit! Throughout December   | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Detroit is a world-class, year-round outdoor destination  - and our TOP RATED guided trips  are curated to capitalize on each phase of our calendar trail conditions! Beyond our typical offering of guided hiking, backpacking, and trail running adventures, this December we're excited to broaden our offering of guided night hiking safaris  and - finally - GUIDED SNOWSHOE TREKS ! Both of these trips will provide snow equipment for rent. The Expedition Detroit  team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider  of guided hiking and other outdoor adventure trips across ELEVEN  of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience . P.S. Subscribers to our content  get discounts on our Guided Services AND online store  items... 10. Sprint into the New Year at the Belle Isle NYE Run December 31st   | Belle Isle State Park   | 3 p.m. Every New Year's Eve , we all find ourselves looking forward to a blank slate of opportunity.  Races to be run. Trails to be explored. Memories to capture. And for the most part, all of those experiences lay just outside of our grasp - one ripped calendar page away from becoming a reality. December 31st also provides us all with one last sweet, finite way of sticking it to the year that's on its way out. Regardless of whether you'll look back on 2025 as the best or worst year of your life, we can't think of a better way to close out this chapter than sweating it out on a New Year's Eve race. This year, head down to Belle Isle for the annual New Year's Eve Run 5K ! Set against the picturesque backdrop of Downtown Detroit , this annual run features a range of distances to accommodate all levels of runners and walkers. Participants enjoy a scenic route with stunning views of the Detroit skyline and the Detroit River, while festive decorations and a lively atmosphere add to the celebration. The event often includes post-race festivities such as music, food, and opportunities for socializing, making it a memorable way to ring in the new year. EXPLORE BELLE ISLE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Happy December to you all, and wishing you nothing but the best heading into 2026. We can’t wait to see you out there! 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.

Expedition Detroit is your go-to source for original content, guided outdoor adventures, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. ADVENTURE STARTS HERE World-class outdoors. One hour from Downtown Detroit. CHOOSE YOUR EXPEDITION In The Woods On The Water Down The Hill On The Trail On The Hunt START YOUR ADVENTURE join us on our guided outdoor adventures Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided hiking , backpacking , and snowshoeing tours across all Michigan State Parks. BOOK YOUR EXPEDITION Guide to Experiencing the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - Winter 2026 Edition WINTER SPORTS Dec 4 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit - December 2025 Edition OUTDOOR EVENTS Dec 2 The "Big Five" of Urban Wildlife near Detroit WILDLIFE Nov 21 Trailblaze Detroit: An Oakland County Odyssey on the Paint Creek Trail and Clinton River Water Trail TRAILBLAZE DETROIT Nov 12 Opening Day Checklist for Michigan's 2025 Whitetail Deer Firearm Season HUNTING Nov 12 Embrace the Dark: The 10 Best Destinations for Stargazing near Detroit HIKING AND BACKPACKING Nov 4 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. Essential Gym Shirt from Under ArmourⓇ Price $38.50 Add to Cart All-Black Athletic Shorts (Unisex) Price $39.99 Add to Cart Under Armour® Men's Polo Price $79.50 Add to Cart Branded Camp Hatchet by Motor City Axe Price $99.99 Add to Cart Deer Camp Hoodie Price $56.00 Add to Cart Branded Camp Axe by Motor City Axe Price $139.99 Add to Cart Crop Hoodie Price $52.00 Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price $21.99 Add to Cart Champion Rain Jacket Price $74.95 Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Price $22.00 Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Price $40.95 Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Price $54.00 Add to Cart Premium Eco Hoodie Price $62.50 Out of Stock Expedition Fanny Pack Price $32.99 Add to Cart Kids Fleece Hoodie Price $39.50 Add to Cart Quarter-Zip Athletic Sweater Price $116.95 Add to Cart 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

Guided trip packages from Expedition Detroit. Guided hiking trip bundles exploring the best of Detroit's outdoors. Save money while hiking. GUIDED TRIP packages SAVE WHILE EXPLORING THE BEST OF DETROIT'S OUTDOORS Expedition Detroit's "Guided Trip Packages " go beyond curating perfect trips for every explorer. These packages provide massive savings on Detroit's top outdoor experiences. Explore on, Detroit - we can’t wait to see you out there. Family-Friendly Beginner Bundle: Trips for New Hikers $140 $ 140 +$4.99 Bundle Initiation Start your adventure into the world of hiking! These 5 family-friendly guided hikes at Belle Isle, Maybury, Proud Lake, Holly, and Highland State Parks explore the whole Detroit region. Valid for 3 months MEET YOUR OUTDOORS Guided day hiking package for new hikers of all ages Retail value of $245 Belle Isle, Maybury, Proud Lake, Holly, and Highland Parks BONUS! Bundle includes "Maybury Night Hike Safari" trip Top Rated Adventure Bundle: Detroit's Top Trails $165 $ 165 +$4.99 Bundle Initiation Explore the best adventures that the Detroit region has to offer! These 5 "fan favorite" trails at Brighton, Island Lake, Highland, and Pinckney State Parks capture the very best of Detroit hiking. Valid for 3 months START YOUR ADVENTURE Guided day hiking package selected for experienced hikers Retail value of $270 Brighton, Highland, Island Lake, and Pinckney State Parks BONUS! Bundle includes Maybury & Haven Hill Night Hikes Best Challenge Expert Bundle: Black Diamond Trails $180 $ 180 +$4.99 Bundle Initiation Looking for the ultimate challenge in Detroit's outdoors? Lace up your boots: this is the perfect bundle for you. Conquer the rigors of Pontiac Lake and Highland - PLUS all of our night hiking trips! Valid for 3 months EMBRACE THE CHALLENGE Guided day hiking package designed for advanced hikers Retail value of $290 Highland and Pontiac Lake State Recreation Areas BONUS! Includes ALL night hiking safari trips! YOUR OUTDOORS, YOUR WAY Choose your perfect EXPEDITION BUNDLE for exploring the best of Detroit's outdoors. Best Value Ultimate Flex Plan $60 $ 60 Every month +$4.99 Initiation Fee NEW! Special Expedition Detroit guided hiking package fine-tuned especially for our repeat guests. Subscribe ONCE and book TWO of ANY VARIETY of guided trips each month! Valid until canceled 7 day free trial START YOUR ADVENTURE Average savings of over 30% Includes "Featured Hikes," snowshoe treks, and night hikes One week free trial period Anytime cancellation FROM OUR GUESTS Expedition Detroit provided headlamps which really helped us feel safe in the dark. It was a great hike, we loved that we got to experience something new. island lake yellow Trail Hike Enjoyed the history and informative landmarks about the park. Dan was kind and prepared when my headlamp was not working. Maybury night hike safari I love hiking but it’s hard to explore trails alone when you don’t have enough experience, so having the option to have a guide and others with the same interest is what I’ve been looking for! brighton penosha trail hike Embarking on a night hike as a novice hiker in my 40s was initially daunting. Dan's encouragement and support were invaluable, leaving me feeling empowered and eager to explore further. Maybury night hike safarai WHY EXPLORE WITH US REFER AND EARN BOOK AN ADVENTURE

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