Brace yourselves... SUMMER IN DETROIT IS BACK!! With the floodgates wide open for amazing outdoor experiences this June, we have nailed down these " Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit " for kicking off your perfect summer spent outdoors! "So Dan...what even is there to do around Detroit?" A close friend currently living in Los Angeles asked me that question a few months back, and I nearly did a spit-take as my initial response. Instead, I blankly stared back for a few moments, completely lost regarding (1) where to even begin with the wealth of world-class experiences found within the Detroit region and (2) whether this "close friend" was oblivious to the existence of Expedition Detroit and our exclusive focus on Detroit's immense outdoor opportunities. For example, let's just zero-in on the month of June. As I type these words, on June 4th, several year-defining outdoor events have ALREADY HAPPENED. We're referring to the competitive Flirt with Dirt 5K/10K races, the scenic Dexter-Ann Arbor Half Marathon , a weekend's worth of " International Trails Day " guided events, and the celebrated Milford Bike Fest - a " Pure Michigan Trail Town " qualifying event. So, yeah - one could say there's something to do around Detroit. In fact, June has so much going on in Detroit's outdoors that it's truly a "blink and you'll miss it" kind of month. But that's exactly what we're here for: to blaze a trail through the forest of opportunities, guiding you towards an unforgettable month spent outside. Without further delay, here are the Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit going down this June! Photo courtesy of National Association of State Foresters 1. Race Along the Detroit Riverfront June 8th | Cullen Plaza, Detroit, Michigan | 8:40 a.m. After a record attendance last year, the Detroit Riverfront Run  is back and better than ever for 2024!  Join our friends at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy  in actively celebrating their 21st anniversary with family-friendly 5K and 10K events. The race route will showcase the world-famous Detroit Riverwalk , William G. Milliken State Park, and the Dequindre Cut Greenway . All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt, a participating medal, post race snacks, and other goodies offered at the event! 2. Celebrate the Clinton River and Lake St. Clair during "River Day" June 8th | Rochester Hills, Michigan | 10:00 a.m. For many Detroit region outdoor enthusiasts, enjoying the waves of Lake St. Clair and flowing streams of the Clinton River isn't just a favorite past time. No - these waterways are a recreational necessity. The lifeblood of generational boating, paddling , and fishing experiences. Geographic blessings that have forged their way into becoming cultural bedrocks. In this spirit, the Clinton River Watershed Council launched its inaugural "River Day” celebration 26 years ago. The ensuring quarter century only heightened its supporters' love for their adopted waterways - and their namesake event. This June, join hundreds of individuals, businesses, community groups, and local governments across the watershed in celebrating the Clinton River and Lake St. Clair at River Day ! Featured activities range from nature hikes, fishing derbies, and outdoor education to river clean-ups, invasive species pulls, and native landscaping. Events and programs from a variety of sources within the watershed will be compiled by the CRWC. 3. Get the Family Hooked on Fishing at the Outdoor Adventure Center June 8th | Outdoor Adventure Center, Detroit, Michigan | 1:30 p.m. In honor of the State of Michigan's " Free Fishing Weekend " - yes, no fishing licenses required - the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center is inviting the whole family to come down to the Detroit Riverfront for some free fishin'! This special event will provide opportunities to learn more about the native fish found in Detroit River and how to fish, including insights into how to properly identify fish. This is a catch-and-release fishing program that includes equipment, bait, and instruction, so beginners are welcome! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is required and the cost is $5 per person. 4. Voyage Across Oakwoods Metropark June 8th | Oakwoods Metropark | 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This month, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks  invite you to travel both back in time AND across the Metroparks' waterways in their 34 foot replica of a Great Lakes voyageur canoe! These guided paddles will occur on June 8th at Oakwoods  Metropark . The experience will provide exploratory and educational opportunities regarding unique wetland habitats, European and early American voyageurs who paddled those canoes during Michigan’s fur trade era, and wildlife viewing for animals like beavers, muskrats, egrets, and swans. The voyages will be setting off at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. , so there are ample opportunities to see varying wildlife and scenic river views. Limited seating is available and all ages must wear a lifejacket.   5. Protect Your Parks at a DNR Volunteer Workday Throughout June   | Bald Mountain, Pinckney, and Waterloo State Recreation Areas | 9 a.m. As outdoor enthusiasts, we should all care immensely for our wildest, most pristine outdoor destinations - as well as for the team at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources  that so diligently cares for them. In that spirit, any opportunity to assist the DNR with their operations is an opportunity well-worth seizing . Fortunately for all of us, the DNR has taken the lead in sponsoring several official "Volunteer Stewardship Workday" events across the Detroit region at the following locations: Waterloo State Recreation Area  (June 7th) Bald Mountain State Recreation Area  (June 8th) Pinckney State Recreation Area (June 15th) Work crew activities will focus on eliminating highly invasive garlic mustard that threatens to take over woodland environments. Rain boots or other waterproof boots are recommended for these events, and preregistration is required. 6. Prove that You're a Triple Threat at the Motor City Triathlon June 9th | Belle Isle Park | 7:30 a.m. Completing an outdoor race of any kind typically represents one of the crowning achievements of a month well spent . With a triathlon - especially at a destination as idyllic and well-suited for swimming, biking, and running as Belle Isle Park - you get a 3-for-1 special that's honestly a bucket list-worthy accomplishment. Anyone who's completed such a feat will back us up on this point. As the temperatures continue to rise well in June, treat yourself to an unforgettable experience by diving into the cool waters of the Detroit River during the Motor City Triathlon at Belle Isle Park. Believed to be the fastest triathlon course in the U.S., this race represents the perfect opportunity for seasoned athletes to obtain that coveted PR. There's also a duathlon option for this event (swimming omitted) that kicks off at 7:56 am. Photo courtesy of OCR US Holdings LLC 7. Embrace the Mud at a Tough Mudder Race June 15-16th   | Oxford, MI | 8:00 a.m.   There comes a certain moment in every race where you mentally give in to the experience.  A "point of no return" where you realize that you're locked into running the miles, or swimming the laps, or pedaling up the hill that's in front of you. In military terms, this resiliency-building moment  is commonly referred to as "embracing the suck." For Tough Mudder  racers, you're forced to "embrace the mud " right from the get-go  - and we strongly advise doing so with open arms and disposable running shoes. This month, Tough Mudder will host its sole Michigan event  on the weekend of June 15th and 16th in Oxford at Koenig Materials . Runners can choose between 5K, 10K, and 15K events that feature obstacles ranging from ice pits, 40-foot nets, cage crawls, and, of course, lots and lots of mud. Embrace the mud. Live this unforgettable outdoor experience. 8. Celebrate Summer at the Longest Day 5K Run June 20th   | Gunnar Mettala Park, Wixom, MI | 7:00 p.m. Night owls, rejoice - this is the race for you! In honor of the summer solstice, our #ExpeditionPartner Running Venture is hosting a special " Longest Day 5K " that kicks off at - wait for it - 7:30 IN THE EVENING! That's right, no alarm clocks and questionable coffee cups required for this full-sun event. The solstice race events technically kick off at 7 p.m. with a 1 Mile "Fun Run" at Gunnar Mettala Park in Wixom. All runners will receive a custom shirt, finisher award, and complimentary refreshments. There will also be special awards for the top male and female finishers in each event, along with top 3 in each age group.     EXPEDITION DETROIT+  SUBSCRIBERS SAVE 20% ON THIS EVENT! 9. Drop into the MTB Life at a Dynamic Mountain Biking Clinic June 29-30th   | Brighton Recreation Area | 7:00 a.m.   If you've ever been interested in launching into the mountain biking life - but, like so many of us, have limited confidence hitting your first trail alone - then Dynamic Cycling Adventures has planned the perfect weekend for you! This June, head over to Brighton Recreation Area for a weekend full of mountain biking clinics taught by local certified coaches! Saturday will be a fundamentals clinic appropriate for all skills and abilities. Sunday will be an intermediate/advanced clinic to explore more advanced mountain bike skills like cornering, jumping, caps, and rock rollovers. Better yet, combine the two clinics for a great two-day experience to take your riding to the next level! All participants should bring helmets, appropriate bike shoes (preferably flats), plenty of water, snacks, lunch, and rain gear. This event does require online preregistration . The cost is $249 for one day or $449 for two days. 10. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve June 29th   | Point Pelee National Park | 7:30 p.m.   The days may be reaching peak length as we approach the Summer Solstice this month, but the stars at Point Pelee National Park  - the single best stargazing destination in the Detroit region  - are still shining as bright as ever!  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  again this month! BONUS: EXPLORE YOUR MICHIGAN STATE PARKS WITH US! Throughout June (and beyond) | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas June in the Detroit region means adventure - so we're doubling down to offer you EVEN MORE opportunities to #OptOutside and explore your wild outdoors! Looking to experience June's outdoor magic for yourself?  Check out our openings for guided trips  covering the Detroit region's most beautiful state parks . This month we will be expanding upon our full repertoire of guided   hiking , night hiking , backpacking , and trail running   day trips throughout Metro Detroit .   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 discounts on 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.

Introducing Expedition Detroit's new #WhatWereWearing series on our favorite outdoor gear for each month! From sport-specific to everyday fits, this series will cover the actual clothing, gadgets, equipment, and other gear that you'll see us wearing in the field. "If I wear it, then I own it." For the life of me I can’t remember who said this quote. Might have been as happenstance as eavesdropping on a conversation during a typical corporate networking session. But it left an immediate imprint on me, and far beyond just elementary ( yet sound ) fiscal advice. The anonymous speaker was referring to a simple investment tip regarding both their personal spending habits and stock holdings. To put it simply, if that person wore a certain clothing brand or drove a certain car, and those companies were publicly traded on stock exchanges, then that person doubled-down on their commitment to these brands by purchasing their stock. Conversely, if they weren't willing to investment in the company, then they also restrained from purchasing the goods. In other words, you're either all-in or passing. No half-assing a purchase; you're full-assing an investment or holding for a better opportunity down the road. For us at Expedition Detroit , we've adopted this concept to align the entirety of our operations with trusted partners . We publicize outdoor events that we actually run, bike, or swim in. We produce content for missions and businesses that we stand behind. And, of course, we showcase the gear that outfits us for every facet of our operations. From guided hikes to trail races, backcountry ski lines to thru-paddles, if we promote a certain piece of clothing or equipment on our platform, then you'll see it in the field. Now let's get into our top gear picks for June 2024 ! HEADSPACE: Everything from the Neck Up Don't panic  - you do NOT  have to look like this 2000s ad of a "Hiking Family" every time you step into the woods. This photo was simply too funny not to include in this article. Enjoy. But there is one area that this hilarious photo actually got right: wide-brimmed hats for high-exposure days. For us at Expedition Detroit , June in Detroit's outdoors means open trails, clear waterways, and lots of sun. Beaming, unforgiving sunlight, especially targeted towards your neck and cranium. Here are our gear tips for minimizing your odds of starting your summer with a sunburn. STARTING FROM THE TOP: Expedition Detroit's On Brand Bucket Hat "Oh yeah brimmed hats, let's go!" A passerby yelled those words to my hiking buddies a few weeks ago while we were in the last miles of a multi-day trek in Kings Canyon National Park. We had spent the last four days in the backcountry, camping at just over 10,000 feet of elevation, with clear skies and hardly any coverage from the sun. Everyone in our crew had smartly packed a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, except for one poor, sunburnt soul. I'll give you one guess who that person was. Here's a hint: they're typing this article. Friends, family, fellow outdoor enthusiasts - please learn from my experience and grab yourself a wide-brimmed hat for your summer adventures! Our " On Brand Bucket Hat " is designed to protect your forehead, ears, and even neck from the sun's punishing rays while paddling on the lake or hiking through an exposed wildflower field. Photo courtesy of Ombraz Sunglasses Inc. Shades: Ombraz Sunglasses No one really knows what the future face of the outdoor industry will look like, but we bet that it will be wearing a pair of Ombraz sunglasses . Ombraz is taking over the recreational world with their stylish, functional, break-resistant, and armless shades products. Each pair features a V2 Japanese nylon cord made from recycled fishing nets, world-class polyamide optic lenses coated for scratch and smudge resistance, and "indestructible, aerospace-grade, TR-90 nylon frames." Better yet, the company is carbon-neutral, planting 20 mangrove trees for every pair of Ombraz sold through Eden Reforestation Projects . It's always cool to play a part in saving our world's natural ecosystem - it's even cooler when you look cool doing it. Photo courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Protect Ya Neck: Buff CoolNet UV+ Insect Shield Multifunctional Neckwear Remember that sad story from earlier about yours truly not having a wide-brimmed hat? Well, there was one saving factor to what otherwise would've been a tragedy - I packed in a Buff CoolNet UV+ neckwear, i.e. a "Buff." And boy, did I get my money's worth: that thing functioned as a neck protectant, sweat band, face guard, eye mask - basically anything to keep my skin protected and sanity in check. Now that the Detroit region has fully-entered "bug season" ( more on that later ), we recommend grabbing a Buff with Insect Shield® features . These Buffs not only protect your from the sun, but also repel mosquitoes, ants, flies, chiggers, midges, and ticks to help you avoid insect-borne diseases such as Zika, Chikungunya, dengue and West Nile viruses. CORE STRENGTH: Base Layers to Puffy Jackets When it comes to backpacking or any form of camping, the name of the game when it comes to packing clothing is layers . While that concept is especially important for winter camping expeditions , the fluctuating temperatures of a Detroit summer can also mean wearing two or more layers even during our warmest and longest days. Base Layer: Expedition Detroit Essential Gym Shirt Base layers are arguably the most important layers for any backcountry experience. Why? Because they are essential for wicking moisture away from your skin, which if performed sub-optimally will leave you with brutal rashes, constant shivers, and ungodly odors. Fortunately for us at Expedition Detroit , our " Essential Gym Shirt " functions as our go-to base layer for warm weather recreation. I'm not just saying that because it's one of our best-selling store items. We field-test the **** out of the shirt on a week-long backpacking trip along the Pacific Crest Trail a few weeks ago - where temperatures reached as high as triple digits and as low as just above freezing . For several days this shirt never left my torso, and I did not experience any discomfort despite the oscillating climate. Photo courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Core Layer: Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Vest As one gets older, it's natural to accept vs. fight certain core aspects of your personality. For me, I've accepted that I'm a "vest guy." Vests may not be for everyone, but I've found that their combination of maintaining core temperature, increasing versatility, layering capacity, and - dare I say - style makes a vest a key component of my backcountry layering system. And for this vest guy, Patagonia's " Nano Puff Insulated Vest " is my go-to all-weather staple. The specs alone should paint the picture regarding why this is our favorite vest on the outdoor market. It's filled with 60g of PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco, which is made 100% from post-consumer recycled content and constitutes an immensely thermally-efficient synthetic insulation. The vest is also windproof, water-resistant, and abrasion resistant. Oh, and it weighs next to nothing - making it the perfect layering add-on for even the most rugged backcountry adventures. Photo courtesy of GearJunkie Outer Layer: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket If it ain't broke, then don't fix it - and when it comes to outer layers, Patagonia delivers again for Team Expedition Detroit with its iconic " Nano Puff Jacket " for our recommended June outer layer. Perfect for the cooler evenings by the campfire, this best-selling jacket is designed to trap body heat, block wind, and allow you to move freely—and all from primarily recycled materials. On the technical side, the jacket's PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation is also water-repellent and retains 98% of its insulating ability even when wet. Versions of the Nano Puff Jacket are available for both men and women . DOWN UNDER: Optimizing Below the Belt Performance Now that we've caught your attention ...let's talk about optimizing your pants, shorts, and socks game for backcountry performance . Seriously though - selecting the right pair of trekking pants, athletic shorts, or performance can 100% make or break your experience on a multi-day backpacking trip, half marathon in through rugged conditions, or even yard work through overgrown brush. The Expedition Detroit team has experienced the highs and lows of that spectrum - including enough poison ivy rashes to last a lifetime. As legendary hockey coach Herb Brooks may or may not have actually said, "The legs feed the wolf, gentlemen." Make sure you stay figuratively (or perhaps literally) fed by taking care of your legs with these top gear picks. Trekking Pants: Kuhl Renegade Recon Pants "Hey man - those are some Kuhl pants you're wearing!" One of my buddies who shall not be named absolutely loves this joke, mostly because not only am I wearing a pair of Kuhl Renegade Recon Pants - but he's also sporting a pair. In fact, as I look around the campfire ring, we're all wearing a pair. I'm a big proponent of these pants for several reasons. With regard to backcountry functionality , they are breathable, have a UPF rating of 50+, are extremely durable, and water-resistant. From a style perspective , the pants' sleek design means I've worn my "charcoal grey" pair to work meetings, social gatherings - even a date night. The point stands these are the best multifunctional trekking pant that the crew and I have ever worn. And yes, ladies - Kuhl does offer great trekking/lifestyle pants for women as well! All-Sport Shorts: Expedition Detroit's Athletic Shorts In my slightly-biased opinion, these are the best athletic shorts that I've ever owned . Fortunately I've heard the same comment from multiple purchaser's of our "Athletic Shorts," including out best-seller " Expedition Green ," our women's shorts , and our new "On-Trail" shorts designed for muddier runs. The light and breathable Expedition Green shorts are my personal staple trail runs, extreme warm-weather hikes, and even aquatic activities due to their quick-dry qualities. We've also heard that they're ideal for yoga and other indoor activities. So regardless of whether you see us on the trail or treadmill, you better believe that we'll be sporting our on-brand athletic shorts. We invite you to do the same! Photo courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Socks: Darn Tough Light Micro Crew Cushion Socks Ladies and gentlemen, this is it: the best socks to be found in the backcountry. Dare we even say the perfect wilderness socks. No, that;s way too bold - but regardless, these socks are the real deal. The redesigned men's and women's Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks feature increased breathability with mesh panels, smooth ribbing, uppers that stay put and extended cushioning over the Achilles tendons. The socks' merino wool wicks away moisture and breathes to regulate temperature for outstanding comfort in a variety of conditions. As an extra bonus, the colors on these socks are always pretty sweet. Let's just say we own more pairs than we'd like to admit...and we're planning on purchasing more. X-FACTORS: Gadgets and Gear for In-Season Adventures Each installment of our #WhatWereWearing series will also hone in on special pieces of gear that are optimized especially for recreating during the current month. While June truly means open season for virtually all warm-weather recreational pursuits, we're inaugurating this new series with our two most reliable items that have accompanied us on nearly every rugged adventure in Detroit's outdoors. Photo courtesy of Deckers Outdoor Corporation Footwear: Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail Running Shoes There are three annual occurrences that remind me that warm weather is just around the corner for Detroit's outdoors. The first is the bullfrogs that erupt in chorus throughout our regional marshlands. The second is the buds that start to emerge alongside our trails. The third is purchasing a new pair of Hoka Speedgoats for the upcoming trail running season. This is my fourth pair of Hoka Speedgoat trail running shoes - and third in a row with the Speedgoat 5s - and I can proudly say that I'm hooked. And I'm far from alone - you'll see just as many trail runners as thru-hikers along North America's longest trails rocking these shoes. Marketed as a"workhorse designed for technical trails," the Speedgoat 5 has become a staple backcountry shoe thanks to its minimal weight, increased traction, and verifiable durability. The Speedgoat 5s are available for both men and women . Photo courtesy of Garmin Ltd. Wristwear: Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar "You need a Garmin." "Hey man, when are you going to get a Garmin?" "[Omitted brand] is good, but man...get a Garmin." If I would've earned a nickel for every time I heard some iteration of those statements over the past few years, let's just say Expedition Detroit's income stream would've been lightyears ahead. Despite my past allegiance to another brand of wearable fitness tech, the market data surrounding me seemed to overwhelmingly point towards Garmin as the gold standard in outdoor fitness tech. From cycling to skiing to backpacking - and especially its watches - I knew the day was rapidly approaching that I would finally jump on the G Train. And thank God that I did. Other than far more accurate workout tracking and reliability, my Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar watch has been a game changer for my personal fitness. The watch's expansive solar charging lens keeps its larger battery going longer— powering advanced training features, a built-in flashlight, multi-band GNSS, and 24/7 health and wellness monitoring sensors. The watch also sends "Smart Notifications" and other indicators expected for a functional "lifestyle smart watch." Don't ignore the call - treat yourself to a new Garmin this summer. BONUS: Backwoods Pest Control ICYMI, bug season is officially back in Southeast Michigan. While there's no official calendar date to mark this least desired of seasons, I knew that it had arrived when I increased my running pace by nearly two minutes in order to outpace the horde of flies and mosquitos that were hot on my tail. Ticks have also become an increasing concern for anyone spending lots of time in our region's backwoods, such as DNR rangers, hunters, landscapers, and anyone looking for employment with Expedition Detroit . Our point here is that backcountry pest control items should represent a staple in your summer 2024 gear list , both for your health and comfort. Here are top picks for accomplishing that goal. Clothing Treatment: Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray Every now and then we find ourselves blessed by the recreational gods when a new piece of equipment or product revolutionizes the outdoor experience . For me personally, Sawyer's Permethrin Pump Spray was one such product. This safe and relatively cheap product pays dividends when you consider the peace of mind associated with trekking into thick brush knowing that your clothes are your best protection from tick-borne and other insect-transmitted diseases. We at Expedition Detroit spray permethrin on all of our backpacking gear . From our boots to tent and packs to pants, we use permethrin to ensure that our first layer of protection is the gear that we already rely on. Topical Repellant: Ben's Adventure Formula - 6 fl. oz. Eco-Spray Sometimes the old ways are the best ways. With Ben's Adventure Formula Eco-Spray , ditch those pesky bugs with this sweat-resistant insect repellent that is safe to use on gear and clothing. Its 20% Picaridin insect repellent provides 12 hours of protection from ticks and mosquitoes. Plus, the spray's scent-free formula won't leave you smelling like bug spray. If you're looking to upgrade your summer 2024 outdoor gear, don't miss REI's " 4th of July Sale " going on NOW ! REI Co-op members can save up to 40% on specialty clearance items. This is one of REI's biggest sales of the year - be sure to cash in on some deals before the fireworks kick off! This article contains sponsored links that Expedition Detroit earns small commissions from. However, each item mentioned in this article is fully-endorsed and worn in the field by members of our team. You are more than welcome to verify by booking a guided trip and seeing for yourself.

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. The Beck Road terminus 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!

Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition focuses on a highlight reel of Proud Lake State Recreation Area through an Expedition Detroit-designed route: the " Expedition Loop. " Join us as we proudly present this new Proud Lake loop that's quickly becoming a fan favorite! " Not too long. Not too short. Just a perfect 5K length. " Those were our marching orders when planning the July 2024 meetup for " Women in Milford ," the preeminent organization for supporting and women-led entrepreneurship and small business in the Milford, Michigan area . We quickly selected Proud Lake, with its relatively flat yet diverse terrain, as the perfect destination for a community-focused networking event. The park's close proximity to Milford also provided the ideal opportunity to showcase a local outdoor gem. We only had one logistical issue: our guided day trip offerings at Proud Lake we either too short or too long for the outing. Our " Proud Lake Marsh Loop " guided hike provides the perfect 1.25 mile nature loop for beginner hikers, and our " Proud Lake Grand Tour " day trip features 5.6 miles of the best hiking in the park. For the every day hiker, either of these tours would've sufficed. But this was a bespoke outing requiring a unique trail solution. Better yet, this was a perfect opportunity to flex one of our favorite Expedition Detroit muscles: outdoor experience innovation . " Alright, I've got this. Let's create a new route for you guys. " Utilizing AllTrails ' "Create Map" feature, I quickly plotted out a 5K (3.12 mile) route for the WiM outing. While this may sound impressive to some, this route was actually years in the making. In a past life, this served as my " Anti-Burnout Route " - a great escape from regular 18 hour workdays as a mergers & acquisitions attorney. Proud Lake was located exactly 1 mile from my home office at the time, so it provided my near daily refuge during that grueling phase of life. If only burnt-out me knew that those hours spent on Proud Lake's trails were for so much more than just keeping my sanity in check. That the resulting familiarity with Proud Lake's hidden gems would translate into curating a transformative trail experience for the Detroit region's outdoor community. That an expertise was developing through the agony of endless billable hours. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the genesis of this #TrailTuesday feature: the Proud Lake "Expedition Loop." Born out of desperation for an outdoor escape. Charted for maximum recreational enjoyment. It's our pleasure to premiere the Expedition Loop here, starting with a spotlight on Proud Lake State Recreation Area. MEET PROUD LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA Those of you who have been following our content for 2 years - AKA the greatest people alive - should know that the Expedition Detroit team does not shy away from our infatuation with Proud Lake State Recreation Area . The park is named after the Proud family that originally farmed the land surrounding the Huron River during the 19th century. The Proud family then transferred ownership of the property to the Montclair Hunt Club in the 1920s, which erected a club house and cabins on the property. Members of the club also reportedly planted thousands of red pines on the property, many of which still stand today. The Michigan Department of Conservation acquired what would become "Proud Lake State Recreation Area" in 1944. The Proud Lake of the 21st century consists of more than 3,000 acres, 30+ miles of trails, and several distinct habitats supporting the wildlife within its confines. The park provides represents a regional destination for trail running, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, and hunting. And yes, the park even has overnight camping facilities in place. My father used to make an annual pilgrimage to Proud Lake's main campground in the 1960s with his youth church group. Around the same time, the Chief Pontiac Trail was inaugurated as the Detroit region's first backpacking trail, with Proud Lake providing the critical link between Highland State Recreation Area and Kensington Metropark . The Proud Lake mileage of the CPT remains its most popular segment to date. While Proud Lake truly has something for everyone, here's a special insider tip: with a little intentionality, Proud Lake's most sought-after sites and beautiful trails can be experienced within a condensed loop . Especially with peak fall colors setting in, there's no better time to plan your next visit to Proud Lake along the Expedition Loop . Let's get to the trail. HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance : 3.12 miles Elevation Gain : 59 feet Trail Rating : Easy Route Orientation : Loop Parking Specifics : Michigan Recreation Passport required for trailhead parking lot located at the Huron River Fishing Site east of Wixom Road The Expedition Loop starts at one of the most picturesque trailheads throughout the Detroit region: the "Huron River Fishing Site" just east of Wixom Road. While extremely popular with paddlers and anglers looking to explore the Huron, this isolated trailhead is rarely utilized by hikers or trail runners despite its immediate access to Proud Lake's vast trail system. In other words, don't let the potential crowds fool you - you'll have the trail to yourself in no time as you venture east along the southern bank of the Huron River. The first 0.2 miles along the Huron River provide one of the most beautiful - yet hazardous - segments of the Expedition Loop. The forested bank of the Huron means dramatic drop-offs towards the water plus exposed roots galore. Just exert normal trail awareness and you'll complete this segment with nothing more than a newfound appreciation of the Huron's beauty. The forested trail abruptly gives way to the pasture of Proud Lake's "Lower Pines Group Campground," the traditional overnight campgrounds of Chief Pontiac Trail thru-hikers. Other than bathroom facilities, this campground also provides an epic vista of the Huron River - your first of several Instagram-worth photo ops. The trail crosses the campground in a southwest trajectory to continue towards Trail Marker #22 ( just keep left until you reach the sign ). From this point, the "loop" segment of the "Expedition Loop" truly begins. Turn left to venture into the boardwalk segment of the Expedition Loop, which constitutes the best opportunity for amphibian and reptilian wildlife viewing. Caution: please WATCH YOUR STEP while on the boardwalks. Although traversable, several sections are in dire need of repair. The 0.4 mile boardwalk segment gradually transitions from pure "marsh terrain" to heavily "forested terrain." The forested section has proved to be a recent fan favorite due to several fallen oak and maple trees, including the massive uprooted crater from a maple tree during August's high winds. The Montclair Hunting Club's living legacy of expert forestry is also on full display during this segment - the perfectly rowed red pines are still standing nearly a century after their planting. You'll be treated to another Huron River panoramic vista at the 1 mile marker before reaching one of the gems of the trail: the Proud Lake Dam . Immensely popular with anglers, kayakers, and swimmers, this destination often represents one of Proud Lake's busiest. Pro tip: venture just over the bridge and take the first side trail on the right to find an isolated bench. This bench provides one of the most beautiful views of the Huron towards Proud Lake proper. Back over the bridge, keep left to leave the crowds behind and regain serenity on the isolated 0.3 mile segment towards marker #8. This short section of the trail undoubtedly provides your best opportunity for rare wildlife viewing - the forested marshland just south of the Expedition Loop provides Proud Lake's largest area of undisturbed habitat . Past trail marker #8, keep left up the sandy climb to start your journey along Proud Lake's famous " Marsh Loop ." This 0.7 mile segment of the Expedition Loop follows the southern bank of the park's idyllic marsh and its highlight reel of sites, including the following hiker favorites: Reflection bench just before trail marker #5 Panoramic wildlife viewing deck at mile marker 1.9 (featured above) Swan-viewing side trail at mile marker 2.1 Stunning 0.3 miles of pristine boardwalk hiking Best waterfowl and bird viewing opportunities along the entire Expedition Loop EXPLORE PROUD LAKE'S MARSH TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Completing the Marsh Trail, you will cross the main park road as you venture due north back into the park's hardwoods. Don't get distracted by the hynpotic rows of red pines - the trail takes a sharp left turn at the 2.6 mile marker before an immediate right to close the "loop" portion of the Expedition Loop. The final 0.3 miles of the Expedition Loop consist of briefly retracing your steps before continuing straight across the Upper Pines Group Campground. A short descent then ends your hike right where it began at Proud Lake's Huron River Fishing parking lot, along with the satisfaction of knowing that you've just completed a highlight reel of an adventure at one of the Detroit region's most beloved parks . EXPLORE THE BEST OF PROUD LAKE ON THE NEW EXPEDITION LOOP TRAIL ! WEEKEND BONUS TIPS Proud Lake is best experienced by foot AND paddle. Dare I say especially paddle when the Huron River is set fully ablaze by vibrant fall colors . Or during a light snowfall. Or whenever you are all but guaranteed to have the Proud Lake segment of the Huron River National Water Trail all to yourself. I tested this hypothesis a few years ago with my trail pup Lucy . I took her out for a MLK Jr. Day winter paddle, launching from the Proud Lake Dam portage, venturing upstream until a barricade of ice at Proud Lake proper stopped us in our tracks, and then continuing downstream all the way to Milford Central Park. It was a long, stunningly beautiful, near-religious experience on the river, filled with unexpected wildlife sightings and perfectly still waters to paddle through. Despite those sights and sounds, the most prominent memory that I have from that day involves two intrepid hikers who were cruising along the River Trail. We crossed paths a few times on our separate expeditions, and each interaction started with their same repetitive greeting: " Damn, should've brought the kayak! " Don't repeat their mistake. Finish your morning hike with an afternoon paddle. Strike envy in the hearts of your fellow outdoor enthusiasts. And, naturally, don't forget to finish your epic day with a cold one at River's Edge in Downtown Milford . 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!

Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition summits the heights of the Detroit region's resident "high lands" - the rugged Mt. Kanzer Trail of Highland State Recreation Area . Join us as we explore one of Southeast Michigan's most unknown and highest points! Why do we need trails? If you're as passionate about the outdoors as I am, that question may seem laughable on its face. Ridiculous even. A gut reaction like that is to be expected when trails have become a central pillar of your lifestyle, akin to going to the gym, dropping in to your favorite brewery , or watching the Lions on Sunday afternoons. Alright, now that you've had a laugh , please - actually entertain the question for the second. Try to answer it. " We need trails because... " Ahhhhh ...now the question gets a little more complicated. I tried answering before I put pen to paper here, but ultimately bypassed the critical thinking exercise by Googling the question. Here's what the fine folks at the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy came up with: Trails and greenways create healthy recreation and transportation opportunities by providing people of all ages with attractive, safe, accessible and low- or no-cost places to cycle, walk, hike, jog or skate. Trails help people of all ages incorporate exercise into their daily routines by connecting them with places they want or need to go . Communities that encourage physical activity by making use of the linear corridors can see a significant effect on public health and wellness. " Connecting them with places they want or need to go. " Ultimately, that's the core value of a trail - especially when built out of necessity or desire . The Mt. Kanzer Trail was born out of such necessity and desire. That may sound surprising since Highland State Recreation Area is a world-class destination that has no shortage of trails. Our #TrailTuesday series has already covered Highland's two most famous trails, the historic Haven Hill Loop and the rigorous, "black-diamond" rated A-B-C-D Loops . We've even covered the segment of the Chief Pontiac Trail that navigates through the heart of the park. So what makes the Mt. Kanzer Trail so special? First, it leads to the highest point in Highland State Recreation Area: Mt. Kanzer . While the debate continues whether Mt. Kanzer reaches 1,050 ft. or 1,060 ft. of elevation ( we opt for the higher because, come on ), it is undisputed that the peak constitutes one of the highest elevations in all of southeast Michigan. Extra points for being the highest point within a park literally named after its reputation as the "high lands." Second, it provides a critical safety corridor between Downtown Milford and Highland Recreation Area for mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners. For several years, mountain bikers looking to access Highland's A-B-C-D Loops from Milford had no choice but to navigate the tight turns, variable conditions, and unpredictable traffic of Weaver, Cooley Lake, and Beaumont Roads. The Mt. Kanzer Trail, which includes the MCMBA-built " Milford Connector Trail ," safely guides trail users away from the vast majority of this traffic. The Connector has even become a staple route for riders participating in the annual " Milford Bike Fest " route. Now that you're all caught up, allow us to reintroduce Highland State Recreation Area and the Mt. Kanzer Trail now. MEET HIGHLAND STATE RECREATION AREA The story of Highland State Recreation Area, as we recognize and recreate within it today, dates back to an unexpected union of lands once owned by fierce business rivals . In March of 1922, the Board of the Dodge Brothers Company authorized the spending of $350,000 to purchase lands across the northwestern perimeter of the Detroit region. These lands - now referred to as the "Dodge Parks" - were donated by Dodge to the State of Michigan for use as public parks in memory of the company's founders, John and Horace Dodge. One of these parks received the designation "Dodge Brothers State Park No. 10" in the northeast quarter of Highland Township. Just a few miles east, another prominent automotive family was contemporaneously closing on vast land purchases. Starting in 1923 , the Edsel and Eleanor Ford started to purchase thousands of acres in the same general region of western Oakland County, including a particular area consisting of a dramatic hill rising adjacent to a wooded lake. The Fords decided to construct their "nerve retreat" wilderness lodge on top of that hill, with construction lasting from 1924 through 1931. The world would come to know that lodge, and its foundational moraine, as "Haven Hill." EXPLORE HIGHLAND'S HAVEN HILL LOOP  WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Over the following 20 years, the Michigan Department of Conservation purchased several thousand additional acres of land to the east of Dodge Brothers State Park No. 10. The State of Michigan also acquired the area surrounding Haven Hill in 1943. The aggregation of the Dodge Brothers parcels with the Ford parcels would amount to the 5,900 acres now constituting Highland State Recreation Area, the Detroit region's fourth largest state park, which officially opened in 1945. The Highland Recreation Area of 2024 consists of one of the most ecologically and recreationally diverse landscapes in the entire Great Lakes region. The park's Haven Hill Natural Area contains all of southern Michigan's principal forest types within its 721 acres, including swamp forest of tamarack, cedar, beech-maple forest, oak-hickory forest, and mixed hardwood forest. Beyond world-class hiking and mountain biking, Highland has also evolved into a recreational melting pot for our region's best equestrians, backpackers, kayakers, cross-country skiers, bird-watchers, anglers, and hunters. Now - let's get to the trail. HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance : 3.8 miles Elevation Gain : 272 feet Trail Rating : Moderate Route Orientation : "Lollipop Loop" from Milford Connector trailhead Parking Specifics : Limited parking available at Milford Connector trailhead on west side of Weaver Road Drive slowly down Weaver Road as you approach the Milford Connector trailhead - your launching point for the Mt. Kanzer Trail . There's several practical and logistical reasons for this, the first being that Weaver Road is a residential street that starts next to a local middle school within the Village of Milford and ends in the southern heart of Highland Recreation Area. Second, Weaver is teeming with wildlife, especially in the morning and late afternoon hours. Last, the trailhead "parking lot" is small . Very small. As in two cars max . If you're driving too fast, you'll miss it. If there isn't a lot of space at the trailhead, then you could also either utilize a pull off space along Weaver Rd., start your hike at the Cooley Lake Rd. crossing (ample parking spaces are typically available along Cooley Lake), or hike in reverse from the Beaumont Rd. terminus of the Milford Connector Trail. For this #TrailTuesday, however, we'll assume that you were able to snag a spot at the Mt. Kanzer Trail's main Weaver Rd. trailhead. Weaver Road Trailhead marker The Mt. Kanzer Trail starts by heading north along the out-and-back Milford Connector Trail. In leafless "off-season conditions" you'll be treated to glimmering views of Moore Lake to your west. The initial 0.6 mile segment to the Cooley Lake Road crossing is quick and relatively flat, although a dramatic ravine and bridge crossing at the 0.3 mile marker does add some variety to the first chapter of this hike. There's also a trail pup memorial right when Cooley Lake Road comes into view. Always, always pay homage to the fallen trail pup. R.I.P., Trail Pup Congrats - your crossing of Cooley Lake Road means that you have traversed the only section of Highland State Recreation Area that exists within Milford Township. The first 0.2 miles of hiking into Highland Township continues to follow the Milford Connector. Fading signage posted by our friends at the MCMBA will guide the way. Your first navigational challenge arrives at a clearing located roughly at the 0.8 mile marker. You will turn north ( left ) to deviate away from the well-marked Milford Connector Trail and onto a barely-apparent equestrian trail. As poet Robert Frost would say, you will "take the trail less traveled by, and that will make all the difference" as you start your ascent towards Mt. Kanzer. The Milford Connector/Mt. Kanzer Trail deviation point. Turn left towards the pine tree. The next 0.8 miles of hiking along the Mt. Kanzer Trail consist of a narrow, consistent, and northward ascent towards the summit. If you're hiking this trail, then the gradual 77 ft. of ascent during this segment will come at a nice, consistent pace. If you're trail running, then you'll likely start to feel the 5-7% incline grades as you ascend through the "tunnel of trees." Fair warning : this stretch of the Mt. Kanzer Trail can get very muddy during the wetter months of year, and is also rarely maintained by the Michigan DNR. We strongly recommend that you were waterproof hiking boots due largely to just this section of the trail. Although there are several offshoot trails along this ascending segment of the Mt. Kanzer Trail, only one prominent trail dramatically bisects it at the 1.5 mile marker. This trail is your route - the formal, prominent, and 11% grade push to the summit of Mt. Kanzer. It will be abundantly obvious, but turn left to continue your final ascent of the trail. Summit approach to Mt. Kanzer The last 0.2 miles of hiking to the summit showcase the stark reality of Highland's wildest segments. On one hand, you have the dramatic ridge lines, drop-offs, and vistas that have cemented Highland as an adventure athlete's paradise. These are the same ridges that we once utilized to test our theory that Highland represents one of the Detroit region's best destinations for backcountry powder skiing . The theory held up - Highland remains undefeated for innovation in outdoor adventure sports. On the other end of the spectrum, the views from the summit are virtually nonexistent due to the claustrophobic effect of invasive bittersweet vines . The summit is marked by a stone monument located to the left of the main trail (a small sidetrack leads right to it), which during the leafy summer months provides the only recognition that you've reached the pinnacle of Highland's high lands. There's no dramatic, Instagram-ready vista like Mt. Katahdin or Uhuru Peak. There's hardly room to pose by the monument due to the overreach of vines. There's only a simple monument, with rolling forested views, to commemorate a unique southeast Michigan outdoor achievement . Summit monument at the peak of Mt. Kanzer We don't intend to put a negative spin on the Mt. Kanzer summit push. In fact, t his is one of my go-to trails that I ran regularly during my training for summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro last August . And I'd be lying if I said that I still don't feel a little sense of pride every time that I reach the summit, because summiting is always an accomplishment. Our critique here is intended solely as a reality check regarding the effects of generational neglect of our wildest places. Mt. Kanzer could - and should - be stunning. A destination for our regional outdoor athletes. And while it may never provide sweeping views due to its heavily-forested environs, Expedition Detroit absolutely advocates for prioritized forest maintenance efforts in the area surrounding the summit. Constructing a more prominent summit monument would also be a nice touch, but let's not get greedy. The northern crossroads of the Milford Connector Trail and Mt. Kanzer Summit Trail After spending ample time at the summit, the Mt. Kanzer Trail then descends the full length of the "Summit Trail" back towards Beaumont Rd. If you're looking to add extra mileage to your hike, you can continue west on the Summit Trail past the peak until it ends at Pettibone Lake Rd. If you're sticking to our route however, you will descend 0.2 miles - past the equestrian trail that you completed earlier - until you reconnect with the prominent Milford Connector Trail before reaching the DNR parking area. Turn right at the signage post towards Milford. The next 0.9 miles of hiking along the Milford Connector Trail is simply stunning. The trail building crew over at the MCMBA are experts not only in building beautiful trails, but also planning beautiful trails. The steady descent of the Milford Connector Trail provides sweeping, vine-less vistas of " kettle pool " ponds, wetlands, and dramatic forested ravines. This segment is especially gorgeous during the evening "golden hour." You'll know that you've reached the "beginning of the end" when you pass through "deviation point" clearing at the 2.9 mile marker, thereby completing the Mt. Kanzer-Milford Connector Loop. From this point, you'll retrace your earlier boot prints over 0.9 miles, although this time with a steady incline over the last half mile. EXPLORE THE HIGHLAND MT. KANZER TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT WEEKEND BONUS TIPS While Highland represents a destination ready for outdoor enthusiasts of all experience levels and interests, let's call a spade a spade : Highland is best suited for our region's most professional, badass, adventurous, and conditions-be-damned recreationists . Men and women who smile when the "summit" of one hill only reveals another, or laugh when the rocks and roots start competing to see which can trip you up first. Hikers, runners, and backpackers looking to train on Highland's prime real estate of rigorous terrain. Hunters unafraid of dragging their prized game out of wild, inhospitable terrain. And, especially, mountain bikers looking to conquer Highland's beloved yet infamous A-B-C-D Loops . For the uninitiated, the singular term "Highland" in midwest MTB circles specifically refers to this trail system - one of only three "Black Diamond"-rated trails in the entire Detroit region. In fact, these combined loops constitute the single most challenging trail in the entirety of our corner of the Great Lakes. The route consists of varying sections with roots, rocky stretches, steep climbs, and manageable technical areas. While these loops are primarily intended for mountain bikers, these trails are also very popular for hikers, trail runners , bird watchers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and hunters . CONQUER HIGHLAND'S A-B-C-D LOOPS  WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Looking for something a slightly tamer? We don't blame you, and fortunately Highland's scenic " North Loop " trail is directly accessible from the same MTB Trailhead. The North Loop provides 2.2 miles of easy, flowing trail, complete with trekking or riding through the full spectrum of Highland's varied natural environment. The North Loop is also teeming with wildlife within its grasslands, pine forests, and marshlands, so stay on the lookout for wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, and deer. EXPLORE HIGHLAND'S NORTH LOOP WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Outside of Highland, we have one simple piece of advice for you: travel south, preferably with a kayak . The Huron River and its endless supply of adventures wait for you along its idyllic banks at Proud Lake State Recreation Area, ripe for wildlife viewing and catch-and-release fishing opportunities. The best launch points at Proud Lake can be found at the Proud Lake Campground, Moss Lake Dam, and the boat launch parking lot just east of N Wixom Road. Looking more for a "trail town" experience? May we interest you in Downtown Milford : our inaugural " Trail Town Spotlight " destination and a small town overflowing with outdoor recreation opportunities. From Highland, downtown is within walking distance from the recreation area's southern segments and easily reachable via bike from the main MTB Trailhead off of E Livingston Road. From Proud Lake, you can easily paddle the 2.6 miles downstream to Milford Central Park - or, as we like to do, pull off just before the Main Street Bridge for direct access to our friends at River's Edge Brewing Co . We can't wait to see you out there. 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!

Happy Spring, Detroit! With our darkest days finally behind us, outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to increasingly more daylight to explore our region's parks, trails, and waterways. As you start to charter your way through this Spring, here our top 7 outdoor experiences near Detroit for you to conquer this season! There's nothing quite like spring in Detroit. After a long winter, you can actually feel the season's arrival. It's that first morning where you open the door to your back deck and immediately sense the warmer air beckoning you to stay out just a little longer. The song birds alerting you that our coldest, darkest days are behind us. The assurance that comes with every day being slightly brighter than the last. Regardless of whether you're heading into the trails to lose yourself amidst the soft green of freshly budding trees, ducking under a log in search of nature's most revered mushroom, or calling patiently in the early morning mist for that heart-racing gobble, our environment truly rewards its recreationists in spring. Plus, we can all agree that trails decorated in vibrant regalia - ranging from spring's purple and white to fall's orange and red - are the best trails . Spring has officially kicked off, so as the Expedition Detroit team has started planning out our "top outdoor experiences near Detroit" for this season, we thought that we'd invite out community along for the ride. The truth is that between now and June 21st - the "Summer Equinox" - we will have increasingly more daylight hours to maximize outdoors. More illumination for adventures, opportunities for exploration, and events for experiencing. So let's get into it! Here are Expedition Detroit's "Top 7 Outdoor Experiences near Detroit" for inspiring your spring 2025 adventures. 1. HIKE FOR WILDFLOWERS Destination: Nichols Arboretum | Ann Arbor, MI When to Experience: Mid-April through Early July Recommended Adventure: Hiking the Nichols Arboretum Loop Trail Very few outdoor experiences will stop you in your tracks like stumbling upon a field exploding with wildflowers . A stunning array of colors - purple, yellow, pink, orange, red, and green - forming waves of vibrancy as a breeze gently moves them. You abruptly find yourself transported back to the Garden of Eden, or experiencing a small window into nirvana. A serendipitous witness to beauty in its wildest, purest, and most natural form. Less poetically speaking, wildflowers are rad . And out of all of the stunning destinations where you can discover them in the Detroit region, Ann Arbor's Nichols Arboretum consistently tops local lists at the best destination to experience the flowers in full bloom. Fortunately for wildflower wanderers, the Nichols Arboretum Loop Trail provides a convenient AND scenic route for enjoying this season's anticipated bloom just outside of the heart of Ann Arbor. The trail consists of a 2.7 mile loop that oscillates between the initial hills of Ann Arbor's northeastern periphery and the relatively flat banks of the Huron River. There are also many side trails that can be added onto this main loop if you're looking to further explore the beauty of "The Arb." Throughout your trip you'll come across countless species of plants and flowers, including rhododendrons, magnolia blossoms, hydrangeas, and many more. Don't worry about reading up on your botany before hitting the trail - there are educational signs posted throughout the route, so take your time, learn something new, and enjoy one of the Detroit region's most beautiful outdoor spaces! 2. REV UP FOR RACING SEASON Destination: Proud Lake State Recreation Area |   Milford, MI When to Experience: Late April through mid-June Recommended Adventure: Running Proud Lake's "Expedition Loop" Kiss the treadmill goodbye, friends: spring in Detroit means that it's primetime for revving up those miles outdoors! While St. Patrick's Day races may provide the de facto gateway to "racing season" in Detroit, our regional running community truly views April 1st as the starting line for racing. For trail runners, Running Fit's " GOAT Series " kicks off with its annual " TRAIL Marathon " festival of races on April 26th. Then our friends at Running Venture up the ante into May with several fantastic events in the Milford-area. Looking to start your spring training regimen for these races? We recommend running the rolling, scenic, and diverse terrain at Proud Lake State Recreation Area . Better yet, we even offer trail running training sessions for new or growing runners. EXPLORE PROUD LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of Townsquare Media, Inc. 3. HUNT FOR MORELS Destination: Waterloo State Recreation Area | Chelsea, MI When to Experience: Late April through mid-June Recommended Adventure: Hiking the Bog Trail For generations of Michiganders, spring hunting for morel mushrooms transcends simply being a"tradition" to resemble more of a "ritual." In fact, morel hunting has become such a widespread pursuit that the DNR has produced several educational and recreational resources designed to facilitate the tourism opportunity surrounding morel hunting. One of these resources includes the DNR's " Mi-Morels Map ," which designates large burn sites in forested areas that are ideal for morel mushroom hunting. While there are several ideal morel hunting destinations highlighted by the Mi-Morels Map, Waterloo State Recreation Area tops the list as the only state area with three designated burn locations. Of those three locations, we cross-reference the Mi-Morels Map with a Waterloo trail map to determine that the park's 1.2 mile "Bog Trail" should provide hikers with the best opportunity to bag some prized and delicious morels. The trail is also relatively lightly used by Detroit's greater outdoor community ( at least for now ), so we highly recommend hunting this trail sooner than later. Remember: Morels found on public land are for personal use and cannot be sold! 4. RIDE WITH THE FAMILY Destination: Macomb Orchard Trail | Utica, MI When to Experience: All Spring Recommended Adventure: Cycling the Trail The ice thaws, the weather warms, and scores of cyclists return to the Detroit region's vast network of paved trails . While our area is blessed with hundreds of miles of beautifully-planned trails to explore, the interconnected trail system forming " Route 1 " of " The Great Lake-To-Lake Trails " provides the central vein of southeastern Michigan's entire recreational ecosystem. Although Route 1 crosses the entire State of Michigan from Port Huron to South Haven, the trail network crosses into the sphere of the Detroit region at Richmond, Michigan - the northern terminus of the beloved Macomb Orchard Trail . The 23-mile trail provides a slice of everything that outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests can enjoy. Starting from the southern terminus at the Clinton River Trail , trail users will experience a rolling, shifting landscape that starts among suburban neighborhoods and into vast open spaces, long tunnels of trees, quaint country towns, and, naturally, an orchard just south of Romeo. Other trail highlights include a unique barn covered bridge, wooded landscapes, stunning views over the Clinton River, and an eventual cumulation in the welcoming downtown of Richmond. Looking to tack on even more adventure to the day? The Macomb Orchard Trail also provides direct access to Stony Creek Metropark via the Stony Creek Hike-Bike Trail . This 6.1 mile trail further connects to several recreational outlets within the metropark, including mountain biking trails, Stony Creek Lake, and several natural trails. 5. BACKPACK THE POTAWATOMI TRAIL Destination: Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney, Michigan When to Experience: All Spring Recommended Adventure: Thru-Hiking "Poto" on a Weekend Getaway A green hue covers the forest as you trek along a pristine trail. The crisp temperatures from last night's sleep have fully surrendered to a bright, warm day. Bird songs fill the mosquito-less air. A fox scurries ahead of you. Crystal-clear lakes rest beside you. The most amazing aspect of all of this immaculate scenery? You have it all to yourself. Last year, the Expedition Detroit team experienced firsthand the magic of early spring backpacking on the 17.6 mile Potawatomi Trail . In honor of the trail's 60th anniversary, we thru-hiked its entirety with an overnight at Blind Lake Campground - the top-rated backpacking campground in the Detroit region. Best part about that experience? Despite perfect spring backpacking conditions, we had the entire trail to ourselves. Including ALL of Blind Lake Campground, which is unheard of during peak summer months. Do yourselves a favor, Expedition Detroit community - book a spring adventure getaway along Poto. EXPLORE PINCKNEY STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of the National Wild Turkey Federation 6. FIND THE TURKEY TRAIL Destination: Seven Lakes State Park and Holly Recreation Area | Holly, Michigan When to Experience: April 19th through May 31st Recommended Adventure: Bird watching or hunting If fall is predominantly focused on the pursuit of whitetail deer , then spring is the turkey's time in the spotlight . Yes, for a sizable proportion of Michigan's conservation community, spring turkeys are infinitely more significant in the spring than even Thanksgiving or Christmas. Thanks largely to the research and advocacy of organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation and careful management by the DNR , Michigan's population of wild turkeys has consistently - and significantly - grown over the last 50 years so that generations of hunters and birdwatchers alike can enjoy observing this uniquely North American bird. While licensed hunters can pursue Michigan's turkeys in most state-managed areas, there are a select handful of state lands that the DNR has specifically anointed as suggested locations for prime spring turkey hunting opportunities . Several of these are in the Detroit region, but two are uniquely located within the same township : Seven Lakes State Park and Holly Recreation Area in Holly Township. Of these two destinations, Holly Recreation Area is especially well-suited for turkey hunting due to its 8,000+ acres, rolling woodlands, and open fields . Both natural areas are prime destinations for conventional birdwatching activities as well, both for wild turkeys and other rare birds. For more information on the upcoming the Spring 2025 Michigan Turkey Season soon, check out Expedition Detroit's 2025 Turkey Hunting Cheatsheet . 7. DISCOVER NEW PARKS Destination: Ojibway Prairie Complex | Windsor, ON When to Experience: All Spring Recommended Adventure: Hiking the Black Oak Heritage and Ojibway Nature Center Trails As our seasoned readers are well-aware of by now, the "Detroit Region" that Expedition Detroit covers goes far beyond Detroit proper - as well as the State of Michigan. Our "within 1 hour of Downtown Detroit" crosses well into southern Ontario and into the trails, wetlands, and forests of our Canadian neighbors. Highlighting the amazing outdoor attributes of Point Pelee National Park has become a favorite past time of ours, as well as introducing new destinations like Amherstburg to our predominantly U.S.-based community. We're excited to expand our American knowledge of Canada's recreational landscape a little further here by formally introducing the Ojibway Prairie Complex : a collection of six protected natural areas within a 10-minute drive of downtown Windsor that are largely administered by the Ojibway Nature Center. Of these recreation areas - all of which are slated to form Canada's first "National Urban Park" in the coming years - Black Oak Heritage and Ojibway Parks are especially noted as sought-after hiking, trail running, mountain biking destinations for wildflower AND wildlife viewing. The Black Oak Heritage Trail is the longer of the two largely flat trails, stretching out to 5.6 miles. The trail is predominately utilized for mountain biking, so hikers and runners should travel in the opposite direction of bike traffic for safety. The area is also well known for its deer population, so dogs should be kept on a 6 ft./2m leash. The Ojibway Nature Centre Trail is significantly shorter than the Black Oak Heritage Trail, tracked at a whopping 1.6 miles. Don't underestimate the experience of this fantastic loop, however; Ojibway Park has rightfully earned its reputation as a premiere destination for wildflower and wildlife viewing, including vast variety of birds, turtles, and deer. This trail is far more popular for hiking than biking, so hikers will not need to keep an eye or two open as much for bike traffic while enjoying the trail. What are your recreation plans for this spring? Are there any destinations or top outdoor experiences near Detroit that we should highlight for the Expedition Detroit community? Let us know in the comments!

Gravel biking is taking the recreational world by storm - especially right here in the Great Lakes region. New to gravel biking? We've got you covered with our #ExpeditionEssentials ultimate guide to the best gear and trail destinations for gravel biking near Detroit! Photo courtesy of Coast to Coast – Gravel Grinder Go pound sand, pickleball : there's a new king on the recreational throne. I was actively jotting down notes at the Michigan Outdoor Summit last fall during a session on the future outlook of Michigan's adventure tourism economy. Lost in the influx of a gold mine of valuable industry insights, one of the panel's speakers uttered a quote that cut through the noise. "Gravel biking is the fastest growing sport in America." Or maybe he said Michigan. My frantic note-taking didn't capture every word. What my notes certainly captured - which has also reverberated throughout the outdoor industry over the last few years - is gravel biking's wave of popularity. And by "wave," we mean tsunami . As Expedition Detroit's mountain biking content soared over the past few years, we couldn't publish an article or post without a follower or subscriber responding along these lines: "You gotta publish some gravel biking content!" "Sweet - now let's see some gravel!" "Are you guys going to cover gravel biking anytime soon?" Fine ; twist our arm. We finally caved last spring and acquired a company-branded Canyon Grizl 7 gravel bike early last summer. You know, just to verify the hype. The hype is real. As real as it gets. I was hooked immediately on the sport, much to the chagrin ( or maybe relief? ) of my REI Co-op mountain bike . I found that my gravel bike unleashed the full potential of Detroit's blossoming trail system. Unlike the weight of my MTB and the fragility of most road bikes, my gravel bike provided the perfect balance of a lightweight frame and structural formidability to fuel 40+ mile rides. Going for a ride now meant having the ability to explore multiple trail systems in a single outing. To verify that Michigan is actually evolving into the "Great Trails State," with Detroit as its recreational capital. We even ventured "south of the border" to Thedford, Onatario to ride in the " Big Gravel Grind ," sponsored by the Bluewater International Granfondo . With a year of field work now complete, we confidently believe that our region's recreational future will prioritize gravel biking near Detroit. It's our pleasure to finally bring the fastest growing sport in America - or at least Metro Detroit - to our community. CRASH COURSE: What is Gravel Biking? You've definitely heard of road biking. Probably mountain biking too. So, let's start with the obvious question: What the heck even is "Gravel Biking?" In short, gravel biking is a version of cycling that involves riding a drop-bar bike on unpaved roads and trails, fitting somewhere between road cycling and mountain biking . In more technical terms, a " gravel bike " features a drop handlebar, longer wheelbase to ensure stable handling, more comfortable, relaxed geometry, wider (35 mm and up), often knobby tires to increase grip on rough surfaces; and disc brakes for powerful stopping in various weather conditions. Let's not overcomplicate the sport though. Gravel biking near Detroit has caught like a recreational wildfire due to several synergistic factors, chief of which being that the sport appeals to both endurance-heavy road cyclists and adventurous mountain bikers alike. Here's a summary of gravel biking's allurement: Multipurpose. From cruising on paved trails to expeditiously riding two-track backcountry routes, gravel biking bridges the gap between road cycling's speed and mountain biking's ruggedness - as well as perfectly facilitating multi-day bikepacking adventures. Variable Terrain. Beyond the crushed stones that literally define "gravel," gravel bikes confidently and efficiently ride over any variety of unpaved surfaces, with conditions ranging from smooth forest service roads to rutted out double track. Route Accessibility. Gravel biking has flourished in the United States - and especially Michigan - due to a third of our country's 4.1 million-mile road network remaining unpaved. Safety. Gravel biking provides an ideal alternative for cyclists that are tied to the pavement of main roads and beginner bikers looking to avoid the variables of mountain biking trails. Opportunities for Economic Growth. Beyond further product diversification for bike shops, small towns throughout the United States and Canada - especially in rural areas with largely unpaved roads - can now transform into idyllic destinations for gravel biking races. Here in the Detroit region, we are already experiencing an influx of recreational development geared towards gravel biking. Starting with our namesake city, Detroit's flourishing network of interconnected greenways - chief of which being the forthcoming Joe Louis Greenway - will supercharge the importance of biking throughout the city. Just over the border, the Windsor-Essex region is capitalizing on the global $135 billion cycling tourism market, including relaunching interactive biking maps, highlighting the trail connectivity of the Gordie Howe Bridge, and branding cycle tourism in the forefront of their campaigns. Gravel racing events like The Watermoo , De Ronde van Grampian , the Big Gravel Grind , and the Rode to Hell Gravel Race . Now that gravel biking near Detroit is here to stay, let's get you geared up for riding. GEAR UP: Gravel Biking Gear Essentials Recommending biking equipment of any kind is a dangerous game. Much like skiing or snowboarding, every rider is different, "gear heads" rule the trail, and any public opinion on the topic is subject to public scrutiny. If you're an experienced gravel rider with a tried-and-true kit, then this section is largely not for you. Feel free to skip ahead to recommended trails. If you're new to gravel biking or looking to upgrade your kit, then welcome - our research team has been expecting you. Let's get into it. GRAVEL BIKES 1. Grizl CF SLX 8 AXS Trail Brand : Canyon Cost : $4,699 Why Listed : Best in Show Technical Features : Superlight SLX frame and high-end Rudy Ultimate fork, this is one of the fastest, most capable bikes around on rough gravel courses Available in 2XS-2XL sizes. Weight: 20.82 lbs Material: Carbon 2. Topstone 3 Brand :  Cannondale Cost :  $1,119.93 ( currently on sale ) Why Listed : Best Value Technical Features : Built for chasing horizons, exploring routes less traveled or accelerating your commute, the Cannondale Topstone 3 is a lightweight gravel bike crafted from SmartForm C2 alloy with a full carbon fork Available in XS-XL sizes. Weight: 22 lbs 15.5 oz Material: SmartForm C2 Alloy 3. Journeyer Sora 700c Bike Brand :  Salsa Cost :  $999.93 ( currently on sale ) Why Listed : Best for Beginners Technical Features : Built for comfort and confidence on any road surface and equipped with versatile cargo-carrying options, the Salsa Journeyer Sora 700c bike is your gateway to all-road adventures Available in 49 CM and 51 CM sizes. Weight: 23 lbs 13 oz Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum HELMET Journeyer Sora 700c Bike Brand :  Salsa Cost :  $999.93 ( currently on sale ) Why Listed : Best for Beginners Technical Features : Built for comfort and confidence on any road surface and equipped with versatile cargo-carrying options, the Salsa Journeyer Sora 700c bike is your gateway to all-road adventures Available in 49 CM and 51 CM sizes. Weight: 23 lbs 13 oz Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum HELMET Persist Mips Bike Helmet Brand :  Smith Cost :  $130.00 Technical Features : Fast-paced lunch spin or long weekend ride, the updated Smith Persist Mips bike helmet is down for whatever you have in mind. And with the easy-to-use dial adjuster, you can get that just-right fit Available in S-XL sizes Weight: 11 oz Material: Polycarbonate PEDALS X-Track Gravel Edition Pedals Brand :  Look Cost :  $59.00 Technical Features : Get off paved surfaces with the Look X-Track Gravel Edition pedals. They're built with an aluminum body and Chromoly+, double-sealed axles that ensure a fluid feel through every pedal stroke Clipless design Weight: 450 grams Material: Aluminum Cleat design: 2-hole GRAVEL BIKING SHOES Men's: RX 6 Gravel Bike Shoes Brand :  Shimano Cost :  $180.00 Technical Features : Optimally balanced for stiffness and walkability, the men's Shimano RX 6 gravel bike shoes have carbon-reinforced soles that offer race-level rigidity for pedaling performance on day-long rides Available in 40-50 EU sizes Weight: 1 lb 3.3 oz Material: Carbon-fiber-reinforced nylon/TPU Cleat design: 2-hole Women's: RX 6 Gravel Bike Shoes Brand :  Shimano Cost :  $180.00 Technical Features : Optimally balanced for stiffness and walkability, the women's Shimano RX 6 gravel bike shoes have carbon-reinforced soles that offer race-level rigidity for pedaling performance on day-long rides Available in 36-42 EU sizes Weight: 1 lb 2.1 oz Material: Carbon-fiber-reinforced nylon/TPU Cleat design: 2-hole ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS The gear listed above is your bare-essentials equipment list. Beyond those components, the list of gravel biking accessories and customization is near-endless. That being said, we strongly suggest investing in proper safety equipment. That includes biking shorts with adequate padding , safety lights ( especially a rear light ), gloves, and riding glasses. Acquiring a mounted cycling computer will also fuel both your riding and fitness capacity. Photo courtesy of Recreation Equipment, Inc. GET OUT THERE: 5 Best Trails for Gravel Biking Near Detroit The Detroit region is no stranger to world-class cross-country skiing trails. In fact, most - if not all - of our Michigan State, Huron-Clinton Metropark, and regional parks feature top-tier cross-country skiing trails near Detroit. Our state's long winters, scenic forests, rolling hills, and notable demographics with Scandinavian ancestry lend itself to our winters' favorite pastime. If you're ready to ramp up your riding adventures for Spring and Summer of 2025, then here are the Detroit region's top 5 trails for gravel biking near Detroit ( according to AllTrails ): 1. DETROIT RIVERFRONT TRAIL |    Detroit, MI Distance : 9.8 Miles Elevation Gain : 118 ft. Route Type : Out & Back How could we not start our list of the best trails for gravel biking near Detroit with the #1 riverfront in America : the Detroit Riverfront Trail ! This ever-evolving, scenic, and amenity-filled trail provides an excellent out-and-back paved trail, ranging from Gabriel Richard Park across the Detroit River from Belle Isle to the forthcoming Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park ( FINALLY opening later this year! ). Our absolute favorite aspect about this trail - and especially for gravel bikers - is that the Detroit Riverfront Trail connects directly to several other trails, including Belle Isle , the Dequindre Cut , the Southwest Greenway, and eventually the Joe Louis Greenway . EXPLORE DETROIT'S BELLE ISLE PARK YEAR-ROUND WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Photo courtesy of Paint Creek Tail 2.    PAINT CREEK TRAIL    |    Lake Orion, Michigan Distance :  8.9 Miles Elevation Gain :  62 ft. Route Type : Point to Point Explore Michigan's first non-motorized rail-to-trail: the Paint Creek Trail ! Open to the public since 1983, the Paint Creek Trail receives over 100,000 visitors annually. The non-motorized Trail traverses through Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, Orion Township and the Village of Lake Orion. Approximately 8.9 miles long, the trail is built on the gentle grade of the former Penn Central railroad bed. The trail's 8-ft. wide, all-weather limestone surface makes it ideal for year-round activity. It's a place for non-motorized travel, a place to enjoy a quiet look at nature and scenic open space - and especially for gravel biking near Detroit. GEAR UP FOR GRAVEL BIKING NEAR DETROIT Photo courtesy of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island 3.   CHRYSLER CANADA GREENWAY TRAIL    |     Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada Distance :  28.6 Miles Elevation Gain :  288 ft. Route Type : Point to Point Oh, Canada! This cycling season, head south of the border to explore one of the top-rated destinations for gravel biking near Detroit: the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail . The trail is not only idyllic for gravel biking, but also birding, and cross-country skiing in the winter . The 50 kilometer (~28.6 mile) Chrysler Canada Greenway travels through the heart of rolling Essex County and comprises the southernmost link of the continent-spanning Trans Canada Trail . STAY SAFE, DRY, AND SEEN WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT TRAIL GEAR Photo courtesy of the City of Auburn Hills, Michigan 4.   CLINTON RIVER TRAIL    |     West Bloomfield, Michigan Distance :  16 Miles Elevation Gain :  436 ft. Route Type : Point to Point The Clinton River Trail is a 16-mile long, multi-use, recreational trail extending through the communities of Sylvan Lake, Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Rochester Hills and Rochester. The trail provides connections to several other area trails and is a critical part of two cross-state trails: the Iron Belle Trail running from Belle Isle to Ironwood and the Great Lake-to-Lake Trails Route 1 from South Haven to Port Huron. The trail has contributed to the health, vitality, and quality of life in the Detroit region since 2004. EXPLORE PONTIAC LAKE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Photo courtesy of Rails to Trails Conservancy 5.   POLLY ANN TRAIL   |     Lake Orion, Michigan Distance :  36.7 Miles Elevation Gain :  698 ft. Route Type : Point to Point The Polly Ann Trail is a 36.7-mile long, non-motorized trail extending north from suburban Detroit on a former Pontiac, Oxford & Northern Railroad corridor. The trail is managed separately by groups in Lapeer County and Oakland County, and the experience along the trail is vastly different in the two countie s. In Oakland County, the Polly Ann Trail has a crushed stone surface and runs for 14.2 miles between Orion Township and the Oakland–Lapeer County line. Along the way, trail users pass through the communities of Orion Township, Oxford Township, the Village of Oxford, Addison Township, and the Village of Leonard. Meanwhile, the Lapeer County section has largely more rugged, natural terrain - in other words, perfect for gravel biking near Detroit. EXPLORE ACTIVE WEAR PROVIDED BY EXPEDITION DETROIT This article contains affiliate links that align with Expedition Detroit's Disclosures Policy. This article does not constitute an endorsement by Expedition Detroit of any of the featured equipment or destinations for cross-country skiing near Detroit.

Historic trails. Raging rapids. Fresh-pressed donuts. Join us on an Oakland County odyssey exploring the Paint Creek Trail and Clinton River Water Trail in this first installment of Trailblaze Detroit - a new adventure series from Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit! " This. This right here. This is what it's all about. " I mumble those words while staring at a rush of whitewater rushing over an unseen ledge in the Clinton River, just south of Downtown Rochester, Michigan. I feel a sensation well up inside of me, one that I've felt countless times before in my life. Our resident adventure athletes know the one - an unforgettable fusion of excitement and nervousness as you're standing at the very edge of your comfort zone. You feel it at the starting line of your first marathon. Or before dropping in to your first black diamond ski run. Or as you take your first step into a multi-day backpacking expedition. A dopamine rush that adrenaline junkies chase all over the world, scouring the planet (and often blowing the budget) on the hunt for the next adventure. I'm not at all ashamed to admit that the whitewater ripping in front of my kayak intimidated me for a second. In fact, I relished it. Why? Because this sensation further proved the mantra that we at Expedition Detroit have preached for several years: The Detroit region is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. That belief is at the core of Trailblaze Detroit , a new adventure series that we're ecstatic to launch alongside our partner Visit Detroit . Each episode of the series will showcase heart-pounding outdoor experiences during each season of the Detroit region, highlighting the history, destinations, and insider tips along the way. Episode 1 had brought me, for the first time, face-to-face with the rapids of the Clinton River. In fact, it was a day full of "firsts" for both myself, the crew, and Detroit's recreational ecosystem as a whole. Let's drop into this "Trail of Firsts" - an Oakland County Odyssey - now. CHECK OUT EPISODE 1 OF " TRAILBLAZE DETROIT " HERE Biking the Paint Creek Trail : Michigan's Most Celebrated "Rail-to-Trail" Location: Oakland County ( Village of Lake Orion to Rochester, MI ) Length: 8.9 miles Recommended Activities: Biking, Hiking, Running, Cross-Country Skiing, Birding, Fishing, and Horseback Riding ( north of Dutton Road only ) Why You Should Visit: Discover firsthand why the Paint Creek Trail is celebrated as one of Michigan's elite "Pure Michigan Trails," including its stunning natural areas, historic significance, and accessible amenities. The adventure began in the Village of Lake Orion, the namesake of one of the Detroit region's few " Pure Michigan Trail Towns ": Orion Township. Beyond the logistical rationale for starting our bike along the Paint Creek Trail at its northern terminus in Lake Orion, I also couldn't fumble an opportunity to highlight the recreational significance of the Detroit region's first official "Trail Town." Lake Orion is truly the "Crossroads of Oakland County." The stunning village is home to not only the Paint Creek Trail, but also the 36.5 mile Polly Ann Trail, several miles of the Iron Belle Trail, and one of our region's preeminent adventure parks, Bald Mountain State Recreation Area. For aquatic enthusiasts, the waves of Lake Orion proper and flowing Paint Creek are also found within its confines. Put differently, if you're looking for a gateway to adventure near the city, do yourself a favor and direct your GPS for Lake Orion. The Paint Creek Trail in Lake Orion Meet the Paint Creek Trail As my talented videographer Jordan and I prepped our gravel bikes for the Paint Creek Trail, we realized that this was both of our first times ever experiencing the trail. " Another first for the day, " I quipped as we started peddling towards the trailhead. " What do you mean by that ," came the expected response. With the camera rolling, my answer provided the following highlight reel of the Paint Creek Trail's historic accolades: The trail opened in 1983 as Michigan's first non-motorized "Rail-to-Trail," built on top of the bed of the abandoned Penn Central Railroad line. In 1999, the White House designated the Paint Creek Trail as the physical representative of " Michigan's Millennium Legacy Trail " due to its service as "an excellent physical and operational example for other trails." The federal government further decorated the Paint Creek Trail in 2006, with the U.S. Department of the Interior declaring the trail as the first " National Recreation Trail " in Michigan. Last but certainly not least, the State of Michigan and the Pure Michigan® campaign designated the Paint Creek Trail as the Detroit region's first " Pure Michigan Trail " in 2023. These designations made the Paint Creek Trail an easy first destination for Episode 1 of Trailblaze Detroit . In full transparency, however, we had an entirely separate rationale for doing so. One that predates the trail's foundation, and even the railroad's operations. The Paint Creek Trail is universally-acclaimed for being a top recreational destination for experiencing the Detroit region's stunning array of fall colors. As we peddled along its forested miles, we paused gratuitously to take in the vibrant foliage that blanketed both sides of the trail. Every bridge crossing over the storybook Paint Creek provided postcard-ready images of an autumnal paradise. Another fantastic aspect of recreating on the Paint Creek Trail is that it's relatively effortless - that is, from a navigational perspective. Other than a construction-related detour through Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve ( spoiler alert: no past or present dinosaurs on site ), the trail provides a straight and relatively flat route through the heartland of Oakland County. You'll easily ride past historic cider mills and restored prairies near Goodison, pollinator gardens, and municipal parks. Our ride along the Paint Creek Trail ended seamlessly with one final crossing over Paint Creek and continuing through downtown Rochester on the Rochester River Walk trail. Another "first trail" for both Jordan and I, and we both marveled at its scenic route alongside the Rochester Hills Public Library and past the padlocks of the Deb McMillan Bridge. Finally, we had reached the terminus of our ride: the Clinton River Trail. Altogether we had biked over 11.5 miles from the trailhead of the Paint Creek Trail to the banks of the Clinton River. A true expedition that rewarded us with a panorama view of Oakland County's gorgeous landscapes. The adventure was only halfway complete, however; it was now time to swap the gravel bike for the kayak. The Clinton River; photo courtesy of Pure Michigan Paddling the Clinton River Water Trail : A Kayaker's Paradise of Rapids and Colors Location: Rochester Hills, Michigan ( Downtown Rochester to Yates Cider Mill ) Length:  3.2 miles Recommended Activities:  Kayaking ( experienced kayakers only ) Why You Should Visit:   Experience the rush of paddling one of the Detroit region's most technical - and enjoyable - rivers under peak fall colors. I caught my first glimpse of the Clinton River while biking past the thick brush on its northern river bank. All I saw was white water, rushing over rocks and other unseen obstacles. And when I say "rush," I mean rapids on par with some rivers that I had paddled out west. " Well that's different, " I thought as I finished the ride towards my truck, where my trusty Oru Kayak waited impatiently for assembly. The Oru and I had paddled over most of the Detroit region's celebrated waterways, especially the Detroit River, Huron River , Rouge River, Cass Lake, and countless other lakes, creeks, and streams that make our region a paddler's paradise. The Oru had even set out on Lake Huron in daunting early spring conditions. Throughout all of my Detroit region maritime expeditions, however, this ~5K outing would provide a full itinerary of "firsts." First time paddling the Clinton River. First time navigating "advanced" kayaking terrain in the Detroit region. And the first time handling a plethora of logistical challenges while en route. Meet the Clinton River Water Trail Winding through the northeastern heart of the Detroit region, the Clinton River Water Trail represents a bucket list-worthy destination for paddling, fishing, and boating adventures. Flowing for approximately 81.5 miles, the Clinton River navigates through communities, parks, forests, and wetlands, offering paddlers a diverse range of landscapes to explore. From practically-still waters to Class II-III rapids, the Clinton River provides an adventure for all skill levels, confirming the water trail as a paddling paradise for beginners and seasoned kayakers alike. Unlike the Paint Creek Trail and Clinton River Trail, the Clinton River Water Trail represents one of only 8 official Michigan Water Trails that exist in the Detroit region. Generally speaking, Michigan's Water Trail are state-designated routes along lakes, rivers, canals, or bays for small boats like kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, single sailboats, or rowboats. Our regional water trails are typically near significant historical, environmental, or cultural points of interest - include nearby amenities such as restaurants, hotels, and campgrounds. We had planned our route along the Clinton River Water Trail with a particular "nearby amenity" in mind: Yates Cider Mill , Michigan's first water-powered mill and quintessential fall destination. Map of the Clinton River Water Trail; courtesy of Clinton River Watershed Council As noted above, not all segments of the Clinton River Water Trail are created equal. The majority of the Clinton River provides suitable conditions for paddlers of all experience levels. However, the heart of the river - from approximately Mile 44 near Pontiac to Mile 25.4 in Utica - consists of fast-moving, intermediate-advanced conditions described proactively as "DANGEROUS/CHALLENGING AND ARE NOT FOR BEGINNERS." If not already abundantly clear, our direct route to donuts was located in the advanced segment. Actually, in the dead center of the advanced section. The technical requirements of this segment of the Clinton River Water Trail became evident roughly 2 seconds after dropping into the river. The Diversion Street launch hospitably plunges you directly into the first of countless rapids, which continue to make their presence known consistently through this segment. For a thrill-seeker like myself, I was in heaven - fully immersed in what is, without a doubt, one of the greatest and most challenging outdoor adventures that you can find in the Detroit region. Paddling this section of the Clinton River isn't solely an adrenaline-pumping rush. Typically, after navigating successive rapids, the river would acquiesce to a stunningly calm and scenic length of natural beauty. These brief segments not only recharged my nerves, but provided unmatched vistas of the brilliant foliage and wildlife that decorated the narrow riverbanks. The stunning scenery relaxes and wisps your thoughts away for those blissful moments... until the next gauntlet of rapids demands your undivided attention . My expedition on the Clinton River was not without incident. The tight, winding nature of the water trail meant that several natural obstacles, like logs, rocks, and other woody debris, provided consistent navigational challenges. As Trailblaze Detroit viewers will enjoy, at one such point my kayak got pinned against a fallen log, which tilted the open-bodied Oru enough for the river to pour in - and promptly flip the kayak . That segment of the Clinton River through Bloomer Park was relatively shallow, so I immediately stood up, grabbed the kayak, and waded carefully to the riverbank. Fortunately, the only casualty of the incident was my soaked pants. Thanks to my water-proof jacket , water-resistant personal flotation device ( with water-proof compartments ), and proper footwear, I was back on the river in a matter of minutes with a dry torso ( key for maintaining core temperature ), functioning equipment, and a slightly bruised ego. Safety should always be your top priority before launching any paddling adventure, but especially on the advanced segments of the Clinton River Water Trail. Here are the top safety tips for navigating the water trail: Be aware of the water temperature, weather conditions, and remaining daylight . Always paddle with the proper equipment. Never paddling alone and always share your itinerary and GPS location with a friend. Know how to swim. Bring a spare change of clothes in a dry bag. Wear river footwear and always wear a personal flotation device. Label all of your gear and your canoe/kayak with your name. When I finally reached the end of the route, my muscles yearned for the replenishment of Michigan's most renowned donuts and cider. The aftermath of 11.5 miles of biking, immediately followed by 3.2 miles of technical kayaking, tend to have that effect. With my appetite for adventure satisfied, I loaded up the kayak and crossed Dequindre Road at the final destination for this odyssey: Yates Cider Mill . Historic Yates Cider Mill; photo courtesy of Yates Cider Mill Yates Cider Mill : The Delicious Finale of a World-Class Adventure Location: 950 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, Michigan Operating Hours: 8AM - 6PM (M- F), 10AM - 5PM (Weekend) Why You Should Visit:   Enjoy the Delicacies of Michigan's First Cider Mill alongside the Clinton River. While the United States found itself engulfed in the Civil War, an entrepreneurial couple made a purchase on the edge of a newly settled frontier. After closing the acquisition in 1863, William and Caroline Yates dreamed of converting their pristine 80 acres alongside the Clinton River into a booming saw mill. Shortly thereafter, the couple also realized that their powerful mill could be used to grind various grains. Then, in 1874, a transformative breakthrough occurred when the Yates family started pressing apples. By 1894, the Yates family mill along the banks of the Clinton River had a sole function: producing Michigan's favorite autumnal beverage, cider. One hundred and sixty-two years later, Yates Cider Mill is still producing not only cider, but generational memories throughout Metro Detroit. Photo courtesy of Yates Cider Mill No Michigan fall is complete without at least one visit to a cider mill, and we can thank Yates for starting - and perfecting - that tradition. While the cider mill is a year-round family destination, its primetime undoubtedly starts when the apples ripen and the leaves start changing colors. Fresh cider, warm donuts, and bakery treats flow from its production line as fast as the Clinton, and Yates' famous "Apple Tent" provides visitors with either pre-bagged apples or the opportunity to bag their own. You guessed it - this trip to Yates Cider Mill was also a first for me, and it was absolutely worth the mileage. Fresh donuts and a cup of warm cider pair perfectly with a side of adventure, especially when enjoying them along the banks of the Clinton River. A final sip of cider while watching the sun set beyond the river closed out not only this first installment of Trailblaze Detroit , but also an idyllic fall day exploring our regional outdoors. As I walked back to my truck, I couldn't help but feel gratitude for the opportunity of a lifetime to call Metro Detroit home. The immensity of culture, history, and recreational opportunities found here - most of which are hiding in plain sight, waiting to be rediscovered - are simply unmatched. Today's saga further bolstered that belief - and we expect even more from Episode 2. CHECK OUT EPISODE 1 OF TRAILBLAZE DETROIT - LIVE NOW ON YOUTUBE ! Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit . The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them. Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more. (734) 821-6416

'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.

Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition tackles the only "Black Diamond" rated trail within our series: the rugged and respected hills of Highland Recreation Area's "A-B-C-D" loops. Check out what draws Detroit's best mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers flock to these alphabet loops all year long. " BEST DAY EVER. " Those are the three words that I force myself to say - audibly - whenever I get back on my feet after flipping over the handle bars on my bike. Or losing an edge on my skis. Or tripping over a root during a steep decline. If you're not falling then you're not trying, right...? I couldn't tell you how many times I've said those positivity-reinforcing words since I started implementing the practice back in 2020. Let's just chalk it up to a lot. But what I can tell you, with absolute certainty, is that I have declared more "Best Day Evers" on Highland State Recreation Area's A-B-C-D loops than any other trail in the Detroit region - combined . If you've been following our content since we launched last fall, Highland's "Alphabet Loops" should be ringing some bells by now. We first introduced the A-B-C-D loops to our community in an article on the Detroit region's three " Black Diamond Trails ," where we anointed this trail - and specifically its notorious " D Loop " - as our region's single most challenging trail. This trail system also made the cut for one of the " Top 5 Mountain Biking Trails ," despite standing out as the only "Advanced" trail on the list. Here's the unadulterated truth: Highland's A-B-C-D Loops are intentionally very, very difficult. Which is why they are so awesome. There's a reason that Detroit's best mountain bikers, trail runners, and endurance athletes flock back to these hills for their ritualistic ass-kicking. Just like any intense workout, the Alphabet Loops will leave your body flooded with euphoric endorphins and all but ensure your return. Training for your first trail marathon ? Running the Loops will virtually guarantee that you'll hit the trailhead in prime shape. Heading out west for a bucket-list MTB trip ? Hit the Loops to dial in your skills. Looking to hunt within our region's least hospitable terrain ? Loop it up. Before we get into the trail, let's reacquaint ourselves with Highland. CONQUER HIGHLAND RECREATION AREA'S A-B-C-D LOOPS WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT

The fifth installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're re-introducing an outdoor destination that truly needs no introduction: Brighton, Michigan. Join us as we explore this regional outdoor powerhouse and its wealth of world-class recreational opportunities! On a global scale, there are only a handful of destinations that inspire adventure with just a single word. Patagonia. Alaska. Himalayas. Banff. Sahara. Outback. For us Michiganders, you could also add "Tahquamenon" or "Keweenaw" to that list. Like a kid passing through the turnstiles at an amusement park, each of these hallowed places leaves even the most ardent outdoor enthusiast nearly paralyzed in anticipation of the exhilarating experiences about to unfold. Unbridled adventure has that effect on us all. Within the growing circle of Detroit's most impassioned outdoor recreationists, "Brighton" is another one-word denomination that evokes the call to adventure. If the Detroit region represents the future of North America's recreational infrastructure, then Brighton has provided the quintessential archetype on how to create a thriving community built around preserving and promoting its outdoors. A near-perfect case study on interweaving small-town charm with cutting-edge innovation, while simultaneously providing trail access to two of Michigan's largest state recreation areas, a Metropark, a world-class ski resort, and countless other community parks and waterways. In full transparency, this article's writing journey has been the most difficult since Expedition Detroit's launch last fall. Trying to capture the immensity of Brighton's outdoor recreational outlets has led to hundreds of burnt calories pacing across my office, plus a few mid-day jogs, trying to sustain a fool's errand of framing a lifetime's worth of outdoor opportunities within a web article. Brighton has pushed our research and writing capacity to its brink - but for the best reasons imaginable. Challenging articles make the best articles, and we sincerely hope that these words will inspire you to rediscover the best of Brighton in these long, beautiful days ahead. Brighton Amphitheater at Mill Pond Park MEET BRIGHTON Located on the northwestern rim of the Detroit region - just on the cusp of the "frontier communities" between Detroit and Lansing - lies the quintessential "Pure Michigan" community of Brighton, Michigan. First established in 1832, Brighton's initial structures consisted of a saw mill on the stream now known as Ore Creek (also the city's original namesake until 1838) and the humble homes of its first settlers, brothers Almon and Maynard Maltby. Over the next two centuries, the settlement gradually grew in industry, population, and amenities to support and establish the modern city that visitors know and love today. The Brighton of 2023 prominently features a dynamic downtown that has carefully balanced its historic charm with the necessities of modern innovation. Brighton's postcard-worthy Main Street corridor prominently features trendy shops and cafes, artisan restaurants and bars, pristine public spaces, monuments, street and sculpture art exhibitions, and live performance venues - both inside and outdoors. Better yet, Brighton has retained its outdoor-centric culture that originated from its initial settlement along the banks of Ore Creek and continues through its investment into improving its outdoor spaces. Photo courtesy of Vail Resorts Management Company OUTDOOR HIGHLIGHTS Oh boy, where to begin... Starting at the heart of Downtown Brighton, a stroll along the city's shops and restaurants must include exploring the boardwalks and paved walkways of the Millpond Trail. Easily one of the most scenic urban trails throughout the Detroit region, the stunning beauty of the roughly 1-mile Millpond Trail resulted from 5 years of habitat restoration and shoreline beautification initiatives spearheaded by the Brighton City Council and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Countless volunteer hours produced what's now described as the "focal point of the Brighton community," where the hustle and bustle of downtown meets a one-of-a-kind natural beauty. Downtown Brighton also maintains a city-wide outdoor sculpture exhibit, featuring several permanent and circulating pieces aimed towards enhancing the vibrancy of downtown. The Brighton Arts and Culture Commission has curated a self-guided tour to enable the public to experience the walking exhibition and the Brighton community. Several art installations are located along the Millpond Trail and its adjacent Brighton Imagination Station, which harnesses the synergy of natural and artistic beauty for a truly impactful experience. For most of Detroit's outdoor community, however, the allure of Brighton begins just outside the limits of downtown. For paddlers and anglers, Woodland Lake and Brighton Lake are directly accessible from downtown via their respective north and south passages of South Ore Creek. For skiers and snowboarders, "Brighton" is ubiquitous with Mt. Brighton, one of the Detroit region's "Big Four" resorts that features the slopes, events, amenities, and experience that any big mountain skier would expect of an Epic Pass resort. Last, but certainly not least, we have the triple crown of Brighton's outdoor ecosystem: Island Lake Recreation Area, Hudson Mills Metropark, and Brighton Recreation Area. Collectively, these three world-class destinations highlight Brighton's highest ranked destination, the Detroit region's premiere water trail, several of the most sought-after hiking trails in the entire state, and much, much more. Let's explore why Brighton is the Detroit region's adventure capital. The Badlands of Island Lake State Recreation Area CAN'T MISS EXPERIENCE: Island Lake State Recreation Area On a shockingly frequent basis, a well-intentioned jerk asks me the single most difficult question related to this business: "Which park is your favorite?" For us at Expedition Detroit, this inquiry is akin to asking a parent to pick out their favorite child. Once the tangible "ugh" wears off, I try to provide an honest answer, which admittedly is usually influenced by whichever park I most recently had the privilege to explore. However, more often than not, my answer to that dreaded question is Island Lake State Recreation Area. Apparently I am not alone in that sentiment. And here's why. Within its 4,000 acres, Island Lake provides a comprehensive spectrum of experiences and landscapes that you simply cannot find anywhere else in the Detroit region - maybe even the entire state of Michigan. As such, the park is extremely popular for almost every recreational pursuit: mountain biking, road cycling, paddling, hiking, trail running, swimming, triathlon training, camping, canoe camping, picnicking, hunting, fishing, trapping, and snowmobiling. Island Lake even has its own shooting range and connects directly to and from the paved Kensington Metropark Bike Trail and the Huron Valley Trail. For me personally, the shifting topography of Island Lake is the park's "X Factor," best experienced by foot, peddle, or paddle. Looking for a grand tour of Island Lake? Opt to hike or mountain bike the park's beloved Yellow Loop (5.5 miles, moderate terrain) and Blue Loop (9 miles, easy terrain) trails - either separately or together. These trails guide hikers or bikers on an expedition spanning the park's rolling hills, mature forests, prairie grasslands, and stunning "Badlands" terrain only found at Island Lake. Prefer a more direct route? The Huron River National Water Trail provides the central vein of Island Lake, starting at the southern terminus of Kent Lake at the cascading Kent Lake Dam, and gently flowing through 9 miles of the park. The twists and turns of the Huron will guide you along a journey through Island Lake's wetlands, wooded hills, thick boreal forest, and grasslands along its southwestern edge. There are four launch areas along the Huron's route, as well as one of the four canoe campgrounds along the entire HRNWT (reservation required in advance). Photo courtesy of Explore Brighton Howell Area BEST FOR THE FAMILY: Huron Meadows Metropark Just downstream and across US-23 from Island Lake, you'll find your next priceless gem in the triple crown of Brighton's outdoor destinations: Huron Meadows Metropark, a family-centric destination laden with experiences for every genre of outdoor enthusiast. Starting with the Huron River, Huron Meadows features approximately 2 miles of a gently-flowing segment of the HRNWT. Especially if you're newer to paddling or fishing, this segment of the Huron that is directly accessible from the Cedar Ridge Picnic Shelter provides a beginner-friendly avenue for enjoying the river (remember to always start by paddling upstream). Beyond the river, Huron Meadows also comprises of 11 miles of well-maintained rustic hiking trails, a par-72 golf course, playgrounds, softball fields, and cross-country skiing facilities at its Ski Center during the winter. Especially with regard to cross-country skiing, Huron Meadows is widely regarded as the "Southeast Michigan destination for skate-style and classic cross-country ski trails," as evidenced by hosting regional prominent nordic skiing events like "Frosty Fest!" last January. Skiers can choose from 14.8 miles of trails for classic skiing or 9 miles of skate skiing. All trails are groomed daily and are lighted at night. The summit push on the Penosha Trail, Brighton State Recreation Area OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Brighton State Recreation Area Only in Brighton would its namesake state recreation area receive the designation of "Off the Beaten Path," but that just further demonstrates how jam-packed with outdoor opportunities Brighton truly is. Having the ever-popular Island Lake and Huron Meadows as next-door neighbors could be viewed as an unfortunate twist of events for a world-class park like Brighton Rec, but hear us out: Brighton's more isolated location and rugged terrain make the park a "hidden gem" for Detroit's most adventuresome outdoor community. Let's start with the basics. Just like any top-tier Michigan state recreation area, Brighton Rec packs a knock-out punch with its full menu of outdoor pursuits. Scattered throughout the park's nearly 5,000 acres of steep ranges of hills, dense forest, marshlands and pristine lakes, recreationists can engage in mountain biking, hiking, trail running, equestrianism (mostly throughout the western segments of the park), paddling, swimming, fishing, hunting, camping, and cross-country skiing. The Bishop Lake area of Brighton Rec is especially stunning and provides the nexus of Brighton's most enviable paddling, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities. For camping, Brighton maintains several reservation-only campgrounds, with its Appleton Lake and Murray Lake campgrounds constituting the park's two "rustic" camping options. Before signing off on Brighton Rec, we wanted to especially zero-in on two of the park's outdoor features that truly certify Brighton as an outdoor adventure hub. First, the celebrated Penosha Trail - a roughly 5 mile route traversing Brighton's easternmost rolling hills and dense forests that commonly ranks as the #1 hiking trail throughout the entire Detroit region. Second, for our advanced mountain bikers and trail runners, Brighton Rec's full MTB Loop Trail System - comprising a heart-pounding 14.8 miles in total - represents one of only three "Black Diamond" ranked trails existing within the Detroit region. Amazingly, both of these world-class caliber trail systems originate at the same trailhead, therefore providing our recreational all-stars with an opportunity to complete two bucket list-worthy feats back-to-back. Damn. Only in Brighton. FEATURED OUTFITTER: Running Lab Downtown Brighton's Running Lab isn't your typical shoe store. Or running apparel outlet. Yes, it is technically is a running store where anyone from 5K hopefuls to seasoned ultra marathoners can purchase industry-leading footwear, accessories, and other running gear. But if you take on aspect with you from this featurette, we hope it's that Running Lab represents a community of likeminded runners - regardless of experience level, demographic, or purchase powering - looking to improve the Brighton and greater Detroit region's running faithful. New to running? Sweet, check out Running Lab's "5K Training Group," which conducts its own 8 week training plan and coached runs on Tuesday nights. Growing as a runner? Solid, Running Lab has a larger training group that supports and prepares runners for races of all lengths. Simply looking to make an impact on your community and environment? Awesome, Running Lab also supports several foundations, including the MORE Foundation Group that recycles and re-purposes used athletic shoes. MORNING FUEL: Brighton Coffeehouse and Theater Location. Location. And coffee. When we're scouting out an area in the hunt for a prime "morning fuel" coffee shop, those three (alright, two) variables are right at the top of our list, and Brighton Coffeehouse and Theater has all of them in spades - plus much, much more. Let's start with the coffee house's location. Not only is the coffee house and theater located right on Downtown Brighton's Main Street, but the spot is literally steps away from easily the most scenic destination in downtown: Mill Pond Park and its boardwalk trail, including Brighton's "AMP" amphitheater and Veteran's Memorial. As expected, the "coffee" portion of the Coffeehouse and Theater serves up your go-to orders of coffee and specialty drinks, as well as tea, lemonade, smoothies, sandwiches, and salads. Oh, as you may have guessed, the coffee house AND THEATER also maintains an in-house theater for promoting dramatic arts, cinema, music art, and other crafts. The Brighton Coffeehouse and Theater truly has something for everyone. POST-TRAIL WATERING HOLE: Brewery Becker Admittedly, I have a soft spot in my heart for the folks at Brewery Becker. Back in the late spring of 2020 - right after indoor dining restrictions were loosened during the Covid-19 Pandemic - my friends and I finished up a trail running and mountain biking session at Island Lake. One of us realized that we could, finally, enjoy that coveted post-trail beer in a real establishment. "Have you guys ever been to Brewery Becker in Brighton?" my buddy Ryan inquired of the group. Alas, we had not. "Oh, we're going. See you there." Since that fateful outing, Brewery Becker has been my go-to spot in Brighton for post-ride, run, or paddle craft beers. Besides the brewery's impressive on tap menu and ample "Bill of Fare" food menu, the restaurant easily has one of the most enviable venues in terms of its Main Street location and ornate architecture in all of Downtown Brighton. Complete with its award-winning biergarten, fire pits, generous bring-your-own wine and carry-out food policy, and family-style environment, a visit to Brewery Becker truly provides a unique experience that we unequivocally endorse. This article only scratches the surface on all that Brighton has to offer for its residents and visitors. For more information on local businesses, organizations, and outdoor recreation opportunities, be sure to check out fantastic local networks like Explore Brighton Howell Area and the Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce. Do you live in Brighton? Have any additional suggestions for our community's attention? Please feel free to suggest any extra experiences, retailers, or outdoor events in the comments below!

Still looking to embark on an epic summer road trip? Look no further - these 10 national parks near Detroit provide idyllic outdoor destinations to satisfy your regional wanderlust. Hint: don't forget your passport! We have a confession to make: the Expedition Detroit team was largely not in the Detroit area last week. As our social media following is already well-aware, we spent last week on a road trip back to Detroit from Bozeman, Montana. A multi-day adventure spent exploring timeless destinations like Little Bighorn National Monument, Devil's Tower National Monument, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Badlands National Park. Each of these classic Americana experiences earned our full endorsement. Road trips and national parks . Hard to imagine a more iconic dynamic duo. Just mentioning either concept stirs up an innate sense of unbridled adventure and opportunity. Ever sense President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act that established Yellowstone National Park as the world's first national park in 1872, Americans have loaded up their wagons and cars to venture out into the open road and explore the country's most beautiful, exotic, and wild destinations. Canada's history of conservation followed a similar trajectory, including the establishment of Banff National Park in 1885 and the world's first national parks government body in 1911. Yellowstone, Banff, and the great national parks of the west should hold a coveted place on every outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. That goes without question. However, the national park systems constituting the "best idea that we've every had" stretch from sea to shining sea, covering the breadth of ecology diversity that has established North America as a recreational dream trip for the global outdoor community. And yes, several immaculate destinations selected for eternal conservation by our national governments are located within driving distance from the Motor City. So, in the choice words of author Jack Kerouac, all you need to kick off your next national parks adventure is "a wheel in your hand and four on the road." Here are 10 national parks near Detroit that are primed and ready for your next road trip this summer: