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Calling all night owls, adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and intrepid hikers! We're heading into the darker months of the year, which means that the BEST WILDLIFE VIEWING OPPORTUNITIES are just around the corner. Join Expedition Detroit on a special "Night Hike Safari" at Maybury State Park throughout the fall and winter to explore and enjoy the best of the Detroit area's outdoors - under the stars! This introductory-level guided hike will traverse Maybury State Park's beloved main "Hiking Trail Loop." Setting off from the 8 Mile Road trailhead, this 3.1 mile hike will cross the park's "wooded highlands," wildlife-dense marshlands, the picturesque Maybury Pond, and uncover the ruins of the Maybury Sanatorium. EACH HIKER MUST WEAR A HEADLAMP OR CARRY A FLASHLIGHT! Participants can either bring their own or rent one from Expedition Detroit for $5. Headlamps are reservable via the online checkout and payable at the trailhead. MORE ON THIS TRAIL: Meeting Point: Trailhead at the eastern parking lot of Maybury's 8 Mile Rd. entrance (turn LEFT at the crossroads after entering the park). The tour starts at the "MAYBURY SANATORIUM" sign at the trailhead. 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

Welcome to Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan! Perfect for beginner trail runners looking to leave the pavement behind with a dedicated guide AND coach, this introductory-level trail run will loop through the easternmost point of Belle Isle, the idyllic "Belle Isle Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon" Trail! Setting off from the Ralph Wilson Gateway, this trail will traverse Belle Isle's southern shore, providing you with stunning views of the Windsor, Canada shoreline, the vibrant Detroit River, and the industrial freighters passing by. You will also pass by the Belle Isle Lighthouse, Blue Heron Lagoon, and locally-named "Hipster Beach" on your route. All introductory level trail runs include not only the helpful insights of a local guide, but also coaching on stride, pacing, and potential route hazards. Additional facts regarding this trail: Meeting Point: Trailhead at the eastern parking lot Trail Length: 2.2 miles Elevation Gain: 22 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Ralph C. Wilson Trailhead

Welcome to Island Lake State Recreation Area in Brighton, Michigan! This moderate-level guided hike 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 hiker, trail runner, 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! 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 back to our #TrailTuesday Series! Snaking through the western rim of Novi, Michigan, this edition explores the panoramic boardwalks, vast wildflower fields, and unmatched accessibility of the ITC Corridor Trail! Join us as we rediscover this hidden gem of a paved trail that has quickly become a fan favorite for Detroit's recreationists. " Alright, today's the day. " The truth is, I had finally run out of excuses. Since the grand opening of the ITC Corridor Trail nearly five years ago to the date, I had driven past its northern terminus along Beck Road on nearly a daily basis. The launch of Expedition Detroit a few years later brought me consistently past the trail's main 8 Mile Road trailhead, just west of Maybury State Park's main entrance. With each passing, I found myself growing more and more curious about this particular trail. One that seemed to have magically appeared one day in the heart of my old Northville-area stomping grounds between Beck and Napier Roads. Despite countless miles driving or running those main corridors, I had never once ventured into - or even thought of exploring - the marshland wilderness comprising of its interior. Training runs, leading guided hikes , or exploring seemingly "more adventurous" natural trails seized up most of my recreational capacity. Oh, and I didn't own a road or gravel bike - just a mountain bike that I preferred to ride on, wait for it , mountain biking trails . Fast forward a few years, countless trail expeditions, and one Canyon Grizl gravel bike purchase later, I had properly exhausted all of those excuses. Finally feeling equipped to venture out into this "familiar unknown," I plotted a scenic route through the heart of Maybury, pumped up my tires, filled up my REI Co-op Cycle water bottle , and hit the trail. What followed next? Bliss - with a pinch of frustration . How had it taken me nearly 5 years to discover the beauty of the ITC Corridor Trail... Regardless, it has since become a staple in my trail cycling destinations. Dear reader, please - don't be like me. Treat yourself to discovering the "hidden gem" that is the ITC Corridor Trail. We guarantee that you won't regret it. MEET THE ITC CORRIDOR TRAIL If you build a trail, more will come . That appears to be the prophesy that's actively redefining Michigan's recreational ecosystem as it aims to solidify its place as the " Great Trails State ." In the Northville-Novi area, the 2010s saw the initiation and completion of several interconnected trail systems, including " The Link " in 2017 bridging Hines Park and Maybury State Park. The City of Novi , in collaboration with ITC Holdings Corp , decided to carry The Link's momentum beyond the boundary of Maybury. Scratch that , beyond the border of Wayne County. Enter the ITC Corridor Trail: a 4.66 mile trail that traverses all of the City of Novi and connects Ascension Providence Hospital to ITC Community Park. The trail also constitutes an essential pedestrian gateway to several recreational destinations, including Maybury State Park Park, the I-275 Corridor Trail, and Hines Park - as well as several Novi parks. Most importantly, the ITC Corridor Trail enables outdoor enthusiasts to hike, bike, and run between different parks and communities without the risk of sharing traffic lanes with larger motor vehicles . The trail has further evolved into a go-to destination where local communities can improve their personal health while cutting back on motorized vehicle emissions. Last, as the powers-that-be in Lansing continue to connect disparate trails throughout Michigan, the ITC Corridor Trail remains a critical link in connecting western Wayne County to Oakland County's vast trail network. Alright , you're all caught up - now let's get to the trail . HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance : 8.8 miles (roundtrip from ITC Community Sports Park) Elevation Gain : 127 feet Trail Rating : Easy Route Orientation : Out-and-Back Parking Specifics : Free parking available at the ITC Community Sports Park trailhead As mentioned above, my go-to form of recreating on the ITC Corridor Trail has been a la gravel bike. While cycling this trail however, I've come across every genre of recreationist. Road runners, stroller walkers, birdwatchers, roller bladers. Basically, every form of non-motorized form of recreation is welcomed on the trail. Just be sure to keep right and pass on the left. Heading north from the ITC Community Sports Park, you'll quickly leave behind the bustling basketball courts and baseball diamonds as you head into the heart of " wildflower alley ." This segment lasts for roughly 0.4 miles until turning northeast to ride one of the longest stretches of uninterrupted paved trail. When approaching Garfield Road at 1.4 miles in, keep left to stay on the trail towards 9 Mile Road. Turn right to stay on the ITC Corridor Trail. Get your camera ready - the famous ITC Corridor Trail Boardwalk is coming. The 0.9 mile segment between 9 Mile and 10 Mile Roads is hands-down the most memorable of the route, especially while crossing the 0.3 mile-long Boardwalk. Truly, the panoramic views from the Boardwalk of the marshland below are spectacular. Birdwatchers will especially savor this segment of the trail. After the Boardwalk, 10 Mile Road brings your first of six road crossings that you will make during your adventure. Please note that vehicles ARE NOT REQUIRED TO STOP when you are making this crossings. Stated differently, you should always, only cross once traffic has cleared. North of Ten Mile, the ITC Corridor Trail continues due north towards its Wildlife Woods Park split. At this point, the trail adopts a "choose your own adventure" approach to reaching a turnaround point. Continuing north/west will lead you to a proper terminus trailhead at Wildlife Woods, including restroom facilities. The western route, which our AllTrails map follows, adds more mileage and basically dead-ends at Beck Road. Don't worry - there's a sign that marks the end of the route. Once you've reached one of the northern termini of the ITC Corridor Trail, you shouldn't have any trouble finding your way back to the car. Simply retrace your path south, although hopefully taking a little extra time to enjoy any sights that you may have missed on the way north. Ah , the joys of an out-and-back route. If you have any extra time, then we strongly recommend extending your experience on the ITC Corridor Trail by venturing over to Maybury State Park ! Seriously, the 8 Mile Road trailhead could not be more ideally situated to Maybury's primary entrance. It's a 0.8 mile commute, due east along 8 Mile. EXPLORE MAYBURY STATE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT The #TrailTuesday Series idea started as a recommendation from readers looking for a deeper analysis into the individual trails that define Detroit's vast network. One of our main goals for this platform is to produce content that reflects the outdoor interests and desires of our community, so please continue to provide us with your suggestions via our contact form or here in the comments!

Summer vacations may have ended, but Detroit's primetime outdoor events season for not only September, but the whole year, is just kicking off! Here are September's " Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit " that are coming down the pipeline this month. September is all about mindset. For many Detroit region residents, September marks the return from lakeside refuges or foreign shores to "regular life." School, work, steadily darkening days. When viewed from this mindset, September can constitute one of the most mentally-taxing months of the year. Then, there's the outdoor mindset. The one we hope that you will whole-heartedly adopt. Where "shoulder season" months like September are viewed as providing the best bang for your buck for experiencing unique outdoor opportunities. For the Detroit region, our parks, campgrounds, waterways, and trails remain fine-tuned for exploration and relaxation  all September long. Squeezed right in between peak-summer crowds and the legions of peak-fall foliage fanatics, September provides the ideal window to fully enjoy warm weather recreation without fighting for reservations, parking spots, or trail space. Better yet, there's a plethora of world-class outdoor events lined up for enjoying one of the best recreational months of the year. So, without further delay, here are the Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit  going down this September. We can't wait to see you out there! 1. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve September 7th   | Point Pelee National Park | 8:00 p.m. The days are finally getting darker as we approach the Fall Solstice this month, so the stars at Point Pelee National Park  - the single best stargazing destination in the Detroit region  - will be shining the brightest that they have all summer!  Point Pelee's " Dark Sky Nights " are especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave variable conditions at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours ( open until midnight this month ), seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos. Who knows. ..maybe we'll even be treated to another primetime showing of the Northern Lights  this month! 2. Catch a Tiger at Comerica Park's Hunting & Fishing Night September 10th   | Detroit, Michigan | 6:40 p.m. This September, venture from the trailhead to the ballpark with Expedition Detroit ! We are proud to partner with the Detroit Tigers  on an exclusive offering of DISCOUNTED TICKETS  to see the Tigers - one of the hottest teams in baseball - take on the Colorado Rockies this month.  But wait - there's more!  These tickets are for Comerica Park's themed "Hunting and Fishing Night" game, so don't forget to sport your favorite outdoor gear to the ballpark! Talk about a perfect excuse to dust off your favorite camo just before hunting season . *Limited tickets available 3. Fly Over to the Festival of Hawks September 14th - 15th   | Holiday Beach Conservation Area | 9:00 a.m. Did you know that the Detroit region is home to one of the greatest migrations in North America? That's right - and our friends over in Amherstburg, Ontario  plan the perfect annual event to celebrate and catch a glimpse of this rare feat. This year, Holiday Beach Conversation Area will host the 2024 Festival of Hawks  - aka HawkFest  - during which bird watchers and nature aficionados will observe the migration of tens of thousands of hawks and raptors  flying overhead on their annual journey to nesting grounds in the south. The festival will also feature a range of free educational activities and nature-themed programming, all included with the price of admission ($20 CAD per vehicle). 4. Light Up the Cut at Eastern Market After Dark September 19th   | Dequindre Cut Freight Yard, Detroit, Michigan | 6:00 p.m. Celebrate Eastern Market After Dark  down on the Dequindre Cut! Accessible from Wilkins St. in Eastern Market, the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard is the perfect place to extend your Eastern Market After Dark celebrations.  Enjoy drinks, food trucks, and bonfires with free s'mores, plus free face painting, giant lawn games, and interactive art activities with The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum. All programming is family friendly and open to all ages. And yes, dogs on leashes welcome! The Freight Yard is located along the Dequindre Cut , just south of the Wilkins Entrance to the Cut. Those attending Eastern Market After Dark can easily enter via the ramp at Wilkins + Orleans. Stop in for a second or stay all night! 5. Embrace Spooky Season by Dancing with the Devil (in the Dirt) September 21st   | Hell, Michigan | 6:15 p.m.   Fall officially kicks off in September, along with everyone's favorite autumnal microseason: Spooky Season . For Detroit's outdoor faithful, there's no better way to kick off a month+ of ghosts and ghouls  than racing through the trails of Hell on a 50K, 50 mile, or 55 mile team relay trail run. That's right - our friends at RF Events  are hosting their annual " Dances with Dirt " race in Hell, Michigan  this month. Don't let those distances completely scare you off, however; this event includes a post-race "bash" with food and drinks, finisher medals, age group awards, and eternal badass bragging rights.   6. Welcome Autumn at a State Harvest Festival September 27th - 29th | Proud Lake State Recreation Area | 12:00 p.m. Is there a better way to kick off fall in Michigan with a weekend camping trip ? We can only think of one way: adding in a Harvest Festival to the trip! Just in time for the Harvest Moon, campers at Proud Lake State Recreation Area  will enjoy a Michigan DNR-hosted " Harvest Festival ." The festival will include haunted hayrides, friendly hayrides, bonfires, crafts, scavenger hunts, archery, bounce houses, site decorating contest, costume parade, trick-or-treating, dancing, a popcorn bar, and other activities. This event is only open to registered campers , so be sure to visit MIDNRReservations.com  ASAP to reserve your spot! 7. Fuel Up on Caffeine at the Coffee Classic Run September 28th   | Indian Springs Metropark | 8:00 a.m. Coffee. Run. Repeat. That's the motto for our #ExpeditionPartners over at Running Venture for "National Coffee Day," and we can't think of a better way to celebrate than joining their "Coffee Classic Run" at Indian Springs Metropark! The Coffee Classic Run  starts at 8 a.m. at the Meadowlark Pavilion. Both the 5K and 8 mile races follow along the metropark's beautiful paved trail, while a special "Kid's Run" sprints off at 9:30 a.m. All runners will receive a custom shirt, finisher medal and mug, complimentary refreshments, and - you'll never guess - COFFEE . There will also be special awards for the top male and female finishers in each event, along with top 3 in each age group! EXPEDITION DETROIT+  SUBSCRIBERS SAVE 20% ON THIS EVENT! 8. Celebrate National Public Lands Day with a Free Hike September 28th | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Did you know that over 28% of Michigan  comprises of publicly-owned land? That's right - well over a quarter of our beautiful state belongs to all  of us, which is a fact worth remembering, protecting, and celebrating  this month on National Public Lands Day! In honor of National Public Lands Day, Expedition Detroit  is offering YOU the opportunity to participate in one of our offered day hiking trips - FOR FREE  - on September 28th ONLY! Use discount code " PUBLIC LANDS " to reserve your hike today!* *Limited spaces available 9. Send It at the Shelden Mountain Bike Fest September 28th | Stony Creek Metropark | 3:00 p.m. Peak summer riding may have past, but fall still represents prime time for riding on the Detroit region's best mountain biking trails!  Riders of all skill levels can get into the action during this month's Shelden Mountain Bike Fest , hosted jointly by the Huron-Clinton MetroParks  and the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association . Riders will experience the thrill of the newly redeveloped Shelden Trails with fellow mountain bike enthusiasts, visit vendor and bike-related booths, enjoy some great food vendors, grab a beer to enjoy by the bonfire, and relax after hitting the trails with free s’mores from REI! 10. EXPLORE YOUR STATE PARKS WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Throughout September ( and beyond )   | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas   Fall colors are JUST AROUND THE CORNER, and there's no better way to experience them than at our regional Michigan State Parks! Not sure where to explore? No problem - we've curated dozens of guided trips  intended to showcase the best of the best of the Detroit region's outdoors. And in case you missed it ...our Labor Day Deals  are live ALL SEPTEMBER LONG!  For our guided trips, we're offering not only 30% off any guided trip, but a "Book Two, Get One Free" special. So don't let those post-summer blues bring you down - there's an adventure or two ( alright, three ) waiting for you along the Detroit region's best trails.   CHECK OUT OUR NEW " EXPEDITION LOOP " DAY TRIP AT PROUD LAKE RECREATION AREA The Expedition Detroit  team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider  of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach 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 the inside scoop on discounts for our guided trips AND online store  items..... 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.

Welcome to peak foraging season, Detroit! Here's the Expedition Detroit guide on adding some flavor to your hikes by highlighting seven edible plants for easy foraging in Southeast Michigan (and beyond). "I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it." Each of us can probably think of an item or two that pops into our mind after reading that statement. For an outdoor enthusiast, that statement typically enters our vernacular when planning for an extended outing, such as a multi-day backpacking trip , long trail run , or thru-paddle . "Do I really need that extra pair of socks?" "How much water is too much for this ride?" "Should I pack the snowshoes for these conditions?" Fortunately, taking the time to learn a few critical survival skills represents an "I'd rather have it and not need it" time investment that can immensely benefit your outdoor experience - with life-saving returns - without adding any weight to your pack. One basic survival lesson includes the " Rule of 3s ": You can generally survive 3 minutes without breathable air while unconscious or in icy water. You can generally survive 3 hours in a harsh environment (extreme heat or cold) without adequate shelter. You can generally survive 3 days without drinkable water. You can generally survive 3 weeks without edible food. This article, as you've probably guessed by now, focuses on the last bullet: foraging for edible food in the Detroit region's wildest places. Did you know you might be stepping on something you can eat? There are dozens of edible plants native to Southeast Michigan.  And guess what? A lot of them aren’t hard to find. 🤫 You just need to know where to look!  In this article, you’ll learn about seven easy-to-spot plants you can forage on your next hike.   This article covers: An introduction to foraging; and Edible plants that are native to Southeast Michigan  This article is your guide to discovering edible plants throughout the Detroit region's wildest parks and trails - as well as in your own backyard. What is Foraging? Foraging is like a treasure hunt  in nature. You search for wild, edible plants and mushrooms to harvest and enjoy. It’s an age-old practice that connects us to the land  and the natural food sources around us.  In Southeast Michigan, you can forage in:  Forests Fields Meadows  Along trails and roadsides Lawns ( aka your own backyard ) When you forage, you're not just collecting food - you're learning to identify plants and understand their growing environments . Foraging provides a fantastic way to spend time outdoors, get some exercise, and bring home fresh AND free ingredients  for your kitchen. Plus, it can turn any hike into an adventure. Edible Plants Native to Southeast Michigan Let’s dive into seven edible plants that you can easily forage  in Southeast Michigan.  For each plant, you’ll discover: What the species looks like Where to find them Best uses for each plant    As an extra bonus, we've provided a "Cheatsheet" for each plant that you'll be able to readily reference while out in the field or in the kitchen. 1. Wild Strawberries ( fragaria virginiana )  Wild strawberries are tiny and SUPER cute! 🍓 They’re much smaller than the ones you would find at your local grocery store.  They have small white flowers in the spring that turn into little red berries in the summer. The leaves are trifoliate — which is a fancy way of saying each leaf has three “leaflets” that make up a single leaf.  You can find these little babies low to the ground. Wild strawberries grow in open woods, meadows, hillsides, and along trails. So you may not even have to venture very far to get some.  You can use strawberries in a variety of recipes, or they can be eaten on their own!  WILD STRAWBERRY FORAGING CHEATSHEET fragaria virginiana  (wild strawberry)   Identification:  Small white flowers, tiny red berries, trifoliate leaves with serrated edges Location: Open woods, meadows, hillsides, along trails Season: Summer Best for:  Eating fresh, preserves, desserts, salads 2. Dandelions ( taraxacum officinale ) We can say with almost 100% confidence that you’ve seen dandelions before. They stand out with their distinctive bright yellow flowers and jagged, tooth-like leaves.   They can grow pretty much anywhere. You can find dandelions in lawns, gardens, fields, roadsides, and other disturbed areas. Early spring to fall is the best time to harvest.  The entire plant can be eaten too. Nothing goes to waste.  You can use the leaves for salads and pestos. And you can make dandelion tea with the flowers. 🍵 DANDELION FORAGING CHEATSHEET Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) Identification: Bright yellow flowers, jagged leaves with tooth-like edges growing at the base of the plant, hollow leafless stems hold the flowers Location: Lawns, gardens, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas Season: Early spring to fall Best for: Teas, salads, pesto 3. Wild Garlic ( allium vineale ) Wild garlic looks a lot like other plants — but you can smell the difference. Because ( duh ) it smells like garlic! Wild garlic has long, narrow leaves that grow from the base of the plant. And small, greenish-white flowers that grow in clusters at the top. Look for wild garlic in fields, meadows, lawns, roadsides, and other disturbed areas. The best time to forage for them is from late winter to late-spring.  You can cook with wild garlic the same way you would cook with chives or green onions.  WILD GARLIC FORAGING CHEATSHEET allium vineale  (wild garlic) Identification: Long and narrow leaves/stems growing from base of plant, strong garlic odor, and small greenish-white flowers Location:  Fields, meadows, lawns, roadsides, and disturbed areas Season: Late winter to late spring Best for:  Culinary uses similar to chives or green onions 4. Wild Blackberries ( rubus allegheniensis ) Wild berries just hit different, right? Let's take Exhibit A, wild blackberries. What starts as a reddish colored, bitter fruit perfectly ripens into black, savory, and delicious berries.  You can find wild blackberries in thickets, at the edge of the forest, roadsides, and open fields. The leaves are made up of three to five leaflets with serrated edges. The best time to look for ripe berries is from mid to late-summer.  You can pop these straight into your mouth after you pick them ( our go-to method ). Or, like strawberries, they can be used in a variety of dishes.    BLACKBERRY FORAGING CHEATSHEET rubus alleghenienis (wild blackberry) Identification : 3-5 leaflets with serrated edges, white to pinkish flowers with five petals, berries turn black when ripe Location :  Thickets, forest edges, roadsides, open fields Season :  Mid to late-summer Best for :  Eating fresh, salads, desserts, preserves, beverages, sauces/syrups 5. Lowbush Blueberries (vaccinium angustifolium) Wild blueberries are a true end-of-summer treat ! These low-growing shrubs are a forager's dream. 🫐 You can easily identify them by their oval-shaped leaves and clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers in the spring. Come mid to late-summer, these blossoms grow into small, round berries that turn a vibrant blue. You'll typically find these tasty gems thriving in open woods, forest edges, meadows, and even in rocky or sandy areas. Whether you enjoy them fresh off the bush, incorporate them into your baking, whip up some homemade preserves, or create delectable sauces, lowbush blueberries are versatile and delicious! BLUEBERRY FORAGING CHEATSHEET vaccinium angustifolium (lowbush blueberry) Identification: Oval-shaped leaves, white bell-shaped flowers, small and round berries, low-growing shrubs Location: Open woods, forest edges, meadows, rocky or sandy areas Season:  Mid to late-summer Best for:  Eating fresh, baking, preserves, sauces 6. Wild Leeks ( allium tricoccum ) You can spot wild leeks in early spring with their broad, lance-shaped leaves that have a slightly shiny surface and purplish-red lower stems. One telltale sign that you've found a wild leek is the garlic smell. Give a leaf a gentle crush in your hand to release the aroma. You can eat wild leeks fresh, sauté them in your favorite dishes, pickle the bulbs, blend them into a pesto, or use them to add a burst of flavor to almost any meal. WILD LEEKS FORAGING CHEATSHEET allium tricoccum  (wild leek) Identification: Broad lance-shaped leaves, slightly shiny surface, purplish-red lower stem, garlic smell Location:  Rich and moist deciduous forests Season:  Early spring Best for:  Eating fresh, cooking, pickling, pesto, and flavoring 7. Morel Mushrooms ( morchella spp. ) The Morel Mushroom's unique honey-combed cap and cylindrical stem make this delicacy mushroom very easy to identify in the wild. The top of the mushroom looks like a brain, and its colors can vary from cream and yellow to gray and dark brown. You'll typically find morels in moist wooded areas — especially around decaying trees, old orchards, and recently burned areas. The mushroom thrives in these environments from spring to early summer. Morels add a rich, earthy flavor to your cooking. The mushroom is absolutely perfect for enhancing sauces and pasta dishes. ⚠️ WARNING: Watch out for false morel mushrooms. They’re toxic. You can tell it’s a false morel if it is NOT hollow from the base of the stem to the top of the cap, as well as if the top is less egg-shaped and more irregular than a true morel.  As Bear Grylls once said, " When in doubt, spit it out! " 🙅🏽‍♂️ MOREL MUSHROOM FORAGING CHEATSHEET morchella spp. (morel mushroom) Identification: Egg-shaped and honey-combed caps, cylindrical stem, colors ranging from cream to yellow and gray to dark brown Location: Moist wooded areas, around decaying trees, old orchards, burned areas Season: Spring to early summer Best for: Cooking, sauces, pasta dishes Ready to Add Some Flavor to your Next Adventure?  Discovering and harvesting wild plants adds a new layer of adventure to your hikes — from the sweet, tiny wild strawberries to the versatile wild leeks. Foraging lets you connect with the food you prepare more intimately.  If you want to hike with a guide who has in-depth knowledge of Southeast Michigan, check out our guided adventures .  Happy foraging, Detroit! 🍄

ADVENTURE STARTS HERE World-class outdoors. One hour from Downtown Detroit. ​ CHOOSE YOUR EXPEDITION In The Woods On The Water Down The Hill On The Trail On The Hunt START YOUR ADVENTURE join us on our guided outdoor adventures Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided hiking , backpacking , and trail running services throughout southeast Michigan. With trips occurring across 11 state parks, we can't wait to guide you on your next outdoor adventure! BOOK YOUR EXPEDITION Jul 29 LIFESTYLE Where the Wild Things Grow: Edible Plants for Easy Foraging in Southeast Michigan Jul 19 LIFESTYLE Embrace the "Hygge" Life: Discover Detroit's Cozy Outdoor Comforts this Summer ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Jul 9 RUNNING Trail Running Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to Ditching the Pavement Jul 1 LIFESTYLE Tick, Tick, BOOM: Tracking Lyme Disease's Growth in Michigan - and How to Avoid It Jun 24 GEAR What We're Wearing: Expedition Detroit's Top Outdoor Gear Picks for June 2024 ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Jun 20 FEATURED DESTINATIONS The Potawatomi Trail: Rediscovering Detroit's First Backpacking Loop ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) MOST RECENT ARTICLES Direct from the field to your feed. EXPLORE MORE WORK WITH US We work with industry-leading brands and hometown retailers alike in our mission towards building a better outdoor ecosystem for Detroit. From retailers to influencers, manufacturers to advocates - if your work creates value for Detroit's outdoor community, then we want to work alongside you. our partners To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. LEARN MORE Subscribe to the Expedition Detroit Newsletter! SIGN UP Thanks for submitting - you have been added to our monthly Newsletter subscriber list. We can't wait to see you out there! the Expedition Detroit Official Store Whether you're in the field, at the gym, or on the couch, we have prepared our favorite threads for your next adventure. Detroit Tigers Tickets - Hunting and Fishing Night Regular Price 60,00$ Sale Price 48,00$ Add to Cart Under Armour® Men's Polo Price 79,50$ Add to Cart Champions Series - One Pride Blue Athletic Shirt Price 29,99$ Out of Stock Expedition Smile Flannel Price 50,00$ Add to Cart Champions Series - Hockeytown Red Athletic Shirt Price 29,99$ Out of Stock Branded Camp Hatchet by Motor City Axe Price 99,99$ Add to Cart Deer Camp Hoodie Price 56,00$ Add to Cart Branded Camp Axe by Motor City Axe Price 139,99$ Add to Cart Crop Hoodie Price 52,00$ Add to Cart Columbia Fleece Jacket Price 76,50$ Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price 21,99$ Add to Cart Embroidered Champion Packable Jacket Price 54,00$ Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Price 22,00$ Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Price 26,00$ Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Price 54,00$ Add to Cart Premium Eco Hoodie Price 62,50$ Add to Cart 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

WHY EXPLORE WITH US? YOUR RECREATION TIME I S SACRED. We know that you each hour spent on the trail is earned, not given. Here at Expedition Detroit , we aim to reward your hard work with world-class hiking , snowshoeing , backpacking , and trail running adventures led by experienced and passionate guides. OUR EXPERIENCE At our core, each of our guides are local outdoor enthusiasts that have dedicated years of their life t o developing skills in the outdoors. ​ From backcountry trips up north, out west, or around the world, to knowing our state parks like the back of their hands, our guides have the outd oor experience to successfully and safely guide you along each of our featured trails. OUR QUALIFICATIONS Each guide hired by Expedition Detroit has obtained the requisite experience and certifications to professionally, safely, and ethically lead guided trips. Our qualifications include Wilderness First Aid certification, Leave No Trace Awareness certification, outdoor wilderness education , adherence to a Michigan DNR-approved safety plan , and activity-specific accolades . OUR PASSION Adventuring with a local guide means embarking on a journey led by an outdoor enthusiast with an undying passion for the Detroit region's outdoors. Our guides have experienced the transformative power of our great outdoors - the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits obtained only by time spent in nature - and they can't wait to share their local knowledge and passion with you. OUR MISSION The core belief of Expedition Detroit is that our region is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. The entirety of our operations - from our online store to media marketing and now guided services - are aligned with that mission. We are honored to partner with the Michigan DNR as a featured retailer and largest commercial guiding provider in the Detroit region . BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE

LIFESTYLE A life spent outdoors captures far more moments than a single hike, bike, or paddle. ​ Our Lifestyle articles highlight the full spectrum of the moments that create an outdoor life. Everything from can't-miss outdoor events to camping hacks, date ideas to trail pups, book lists to the latest outdoor survivalist show that we're binging. Expedition Detroit Jul 29 Where the Wild Things Grow: Edible Plants for Easy Foraging in Southeast Michigan Welcome to peak foraging season, Detroit! Here's the Expedition Detroit guide on adding some flavor to your hikes by highlighting seven... 0 comments Expedition Detroit Jul 19 Embrace the "Hygge" Life: Discover Detroit's Cozy Outdoor Comforts this Summer ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Cozy yurts. Relaxed forest bathing. Bountiful farmers markets. Welcome to the Hygge life, Detroit! Just in time for another beautiful... 1 comment Eric Reilly, DO Jul 1 Tick, Tick, BOOM: Tracking Lyme Disease's Growth in Michigan - and How to Avoid It Summer in Detroit is BACK with open season for backpacking, gravel biking, hiking...and picking up a tick or two along the way. Have no... 0 comments Dan Cooke Jun 4 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout June 2024 Brace yourselves...SUMMER IN DETROIT IS BACK!! With the floodgates wide open for amazing outdoor experiences this June, we have nailed... 0 comments Expedition Detroit May 29 How Living an Outdoor Lifestyle Benefits your Mental Health ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we're exploring the many ways that living an outdoor lifestyle can actively benefit your... 1 comment Dan Cooke May 3 Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout May 2024 Detroit's outdoor floodgates are open! May's arrival signals the launch of "primetime" for our region's recreational ecosystem, and these... 0 comments Expedition Detroit May 2 5 Amazing Ways Guided Hike Tours Elevate Your Outdoor Experience Looking to shake up your everyday life with new adventures - especially right here in Metro Detroit? Look no further - here are the... 0 comments Dan Cooke Apr 24 The Ultimate Adventure Guide to the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit Brace yourself, Detroit - the 2024 NFL Draft kicks off TOMORROW, including the arrival of 500,000+ football fans to the heart of... 0 comments Dan Cooke Apr 11 Top Five Outdoor Events near Detroit remaining in April 2024 ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) Spring has sprung along with the return of prime time in Detroit's outdoors! As our trails, campgrounds, and waterways reopen this month... 1 comment Dan Cooke Apr 1 Michigan's Outdoor Ecosystem is Evolving - and the Headlines are Following This is not an April Fool's joke! After years of purposeful investment in Michigan's recreational ecosystem, major publications are... 0 comments Dan Cooke Mar 20 Spring 2024 Preview: Top Outdoor Experiences near Detroit this Season Happy Spring, Detroit! With our darkest days finally behind us, outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to increasingly more daylight to... 0 comments Dan Cooke Mar 8 Top Five Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout March 2024 In the blink of an eye, spring has arrived in Detroit! Welcome to March: the epitome of "shoulder season" recreation where days can start... 0 comments Dan Cooke Feb 21 Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Dearborn, Michigan ratings-display.rating-aria-label (1) The sixth installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, this edition highlights the natural gems of one of Michigan's most beautiful,... 1 comment Dan Cooke Feb 7 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout February 2024 Love. Blue skies. Trails. If that trio sounds like an amazing time to you, then a February spent in Detroit's outdoors may become your... 0 comments Dan Cooke Feb 5 All Grit: 5 Key Outdoor Takeaways from the Detroit Lions' 2023 Season In the wake of the Detroit Lions' most exciting - and heart wrenching - season in a generation, we're reflecting back on 5 key takeaways... 0 comments Dan Cooke Jan 11 Top Five Outdoor Events near Detroit remaining in January 2024 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to today's fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor... 0 comments Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2023 Top 2024 Outdoor New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish near Detroit Happy New Year, Detroit!! In light of the impending arrival of 2024, here are the Expedition Detroit team's top "outdoor New Year's... 0 comments Dan Cooke Dec 21, 2023 Why Detroit Should Adopt Norway's "Friluftsliv" Lifestyle this Winter In honor of the Winter Solstice, here is Expedition Detroit's guide to harnessing the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of Norway's... 0 comments Dan Cooke Dec 12, 2023 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout December 2023 'Tis the season for holly, jolly, and freezing outdoor adventures - and we are stoked for them all! As you navigate the madness of the... 1 comment Dan Cooke Nov 1, 2023 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout November 2023 Alright, it may have snowed yesterday, BUT the Detroit region's fall outdoor events calendar is STILL HEATING UP for an epic November!... 0 comments Eric Reilly, DO Oct 31, 2023 Hike Further, Live Longer: Medical Benefits of Hiking Detroit’s Trails Written by Dr. Eric Reilly, here we thoroughly examine one of the most pressing health risks in the Detroit region - chronic physical... 0 comments Dan Cooke Oct 18, 2023 Haunted Hikes: Braving Detroit's Most Obscure Outdoor Destinations This Halloween season, lace up your boots - and pack in a little extra courage - as you set out on these infamous 5 haunted hikes across... 0 comments Dan Cooke Oct 13, 2023 Exploring the Detroit Free Press Marathon's 4 Most Iconic Routes Race Weekend for the 2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon is HERE! As runners finalize their pre-event prep and arrive in Detroit, here are... 0 comments Dan Cooke Oct 9, 2023 A Year of Exploration: Highlights from Expedition Detroit's 1st Year Times flies when you're exploring Detroit's outdoors! Now that we have officially crossed into Year 2, here's a quick recap of our... 0 comments Dan Cooke Oct 2, 2023 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout October 2023 October means that FALL IS BACK IN DETROIT, along with your favorite autumnal traditions, seasonal treats, and the optimal opportunity to... 0 comments Katie Whitley Sep 21, 2023 The Best Hiking and Cider Mill Adventures in Metro Detroit Crisp weather, crunchy leaves, changing colors - could you imagine a more perfect autumn hike? Well, the promise of sweet apple cider, a... 1 comment Dan Cooke Sep 18, 2023 Five Best Ways to Celebrate "Michigan Trails Week" this Month Happy #TrailsWeek, Michiganders! With more than 13,400 miles of trails to choose from, here is our short list of the five best ways to... 0 comments Dan Cooke Sep 12, 2023 Top Five Outdoor Events near Detroit remaining in September 2023 September may be nearing its mid-point, but several amazing opportunities remain for closing out the summer and kicking off fall in... 0 comments Dan Cooke Aug 21, 2023 The Metroparks Trail Challenge: Exploring 13 Trails in 13 Days This summer, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks launched their inaugural Metroparks Trail Challenge: completing 13 "challenge trails" across... 0 comments Dan Cooke Aug 10, 2023 The Layover: Outdoor Day Trips near Detroit Metro Airport The Detroit Metro Airport - a world-class hub for domestic and international travel alike - provides weary travelers with an amazing... 0 comments RECENT LIFESTYLE ARTICLES