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Embrace your "Winter Arc," Detroit! Here are the core health benefits that you can obtain from cold weather exercise this winter , including our top recommendations for experiencing new activities in the Detroit region's world-class outdoors. You can always smell it first. Long before the Detroit region's trails and forests become adorned in white, or even the first frost glistens across an open field. Several weeks prior to the industrial activation of a chair lift or searching the garage for your snowshoes. Sometime in mid- to late-fall, without fail, a rouge gust of wind brings a crisp smell that alerts all of the senses to an undeniable fact: winter is coming . For some of our local residents , that gust provides an early warning call to get out of dodge. A signal to vacate the outdoors and follow the birds south to warmer climates. For others - our favorite cohort of recreationist - winter's arrival means the unlocking of one of the Detroit region's greatest assets. The unboxing of nature's greatest restorative gift. The illusive "fourth season" that nearly all Michiganders boast about in their reasons for living in the mitten, yet so few actual seem to love. For me personally , winter in Detroit is my favorite season for countless reasons. Beyond the beauty of fresh snowfall across our local parks, winter brings out a sense of adventure unmatched in any other season. From the absence of crowds (and bugs) to the novelty of marking fresh tracks on a favorite trail or ski run, winter's bounty remains our region's most undervalued recreational asset. This article goes beyond my personal affinity for the coldest months of the year. Here, Team Expedition Detroit advocates for why winter should be every outdoor enthusiast's favorite season due to the unique physical AND mental health benefits of cold weather exercise. Better yet, we even tack on our favorite winter past times. Embrace your "Winter Arc," Detroit. We'll see you on the trails. HEAT UP THE COLD : Physical Benefits of Cold Weather Exercise During the warmer months of the year, participants on Expedition Detroit's guided tours have consistently inquired about one aspect of our operations: " When do you guys stop operating for the year? " They're typically shocked at my response. " Oh, we don't stop. We operate year-round. In fact, our cold weather hikes are actually the best for you. " A few seconds of blank stares is typically the final response before a topic change. But just to reiterate, that's not just our subjective belief. Research from reputable health institutions like Harvard Medical School and Aston University dogmatically back up our stance. Here are physical health benefits of cold weather exercise vs. indoor - or even warm weather - exercise: Enhanced Endurance Cold weather exercise can supercharge endurance capacity compared to identical warm weather exercise since the colder temperatures reduce your heart rate and sweat production, therefore allowing you to exercise more efficiently. Fat-Burning Capability Exercising in cold weather can transform "white fat," specifically belly and thigh fat, into calorie-burning brown fat. Sunlight Exposure Cold weather outdoor exercise - even in overcast conditions - still provides much-needed sunlight exposure vs. indoor exercise. Boosted Immunity Cold weather exercise not only helps you fight off any symptoms of a cold or flu, but reduces the likelihood of infection. Cross-Training Opportunities The variable of conditions found during winter means that cold weather exercise provides unmatched opportunities for cross-training different muscle groups through a variety of exercises. On a personal level, one of the intangible benefits of founding this company back in 2022 has been the near-absence of "sick days" that I've experienced since then - especially during "cold and flu season." I whole-heartedly attribute the cold weather exercise inherent to leading guided hiking trips and snowshoe tours across the Detroit region's Michigan State Parks to this health trend. And on behalf of our team, I invite you to experience the same with Expedition Detroit as you kick off - or maintain - your "Winter Arc" fitness goals in the new year. EMBRACE THE CHILL : Mental Health Benefits of Cold Weather Exercise Cold weather exercise in the Detroit region comes with a certain super-charged, X-factor too: it's fantastic for your mental health. Why? Starting with the obvious, because it gets really, really cold around these parts. And dark. And gray. Basically, it gets very inhospitable, very quickly, for your average fair weather explorer. If that sounds counter-intuitive, you're not wrong. Those conditions prompt more than half of Americans to become less active during the winter months. Unsurprisingly, most Americans' mental health also plummets during this time of year. Seasonal Affective Disorder ("SAD") especially runs rampant during this time of year, stemming largely from reduced sunlight, serotonin irregularities, social isolation from time spent indoors, and lower Vitamin D levels. As those who suffer from SAD are painfully aware, the condition can quickly spiral and compound on itself; symptoms of the disorder include loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities as well as decreased energy and fatigue, therefore making the infliction increasingly more difficult to treat. While medical professionals are still assessing how to effectively treat disorders like SAD, one commonly heralded " best practice " for mitigating - or altogether avoiding - the condition includes cold weather exercise. Medical studies have supported that exercising in nature "actually increases the levels of dopamine, serotonin, and natural endorphins that are released through the body,” says Dr. Morgan Busko of New York-Presbyterian Westchester, a sports medicine physician. Research has even shown that doing exercise in nature can help improve cognitive performance. As we've covered before , cold weather exercise also provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen your mental resiliency . Consistently encountering - and overcoming - the discomfort of a Detroit winter will gradually normalize facing and conquering adversity. Beyond fortifying your capacity to recreate in all conditions, increased resiliency provides compounding benefits like improved self-esteem, confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Here are three ways that you could introduce resiliency into your wintertime recreational agenda: TAKE ICE BATHS. Yes, believe the hype that you've seen all over social media. Taking regular ice baths (i.e., at least 11 minutes per week) have been purported to reduce inflammation and swelling, boost your mood, relieve sore muscles, aid in recovery, support immunity, and generally improve mental health.* CAMP OUTDOORS. Camping season does not end during the warmer months. In fact, simply sleeping outside throughout the year has proven to improve immune system functionality and speed up metabolic rates. During winter, studies show that continuing to camp in cold conditions helps reduce inflammation, improve our brain's cognitive functionality, and further increase metabolism as the body burns more fat to keep warm. LEARN A NEW SPORT. When the snow starts falling and the ice freezes over, a whole new wintry world of outdoor recreation comes alive. The Detroit region provides ample, beginner-friendly terrain for adventure athletes of all genres to learn, hone, and pursue mastery in novel recreational fields. Better yet, the act of acquiring a new skillset has been proven to diminish the onset of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and other memory-affecting ailments. When it comes to "learning a new sport," here are Expedition Detroit's field-tested recommendations for this Winter 2025-26 season. GET OUT THERE: Expedition Detroit's 5 "Go-To Activities" for Cold Weather Exercise The beauty of cold weather exercise is found in its spectrum of variety. Yes, you can absolutely continue trail running or hiking in most cold weather conditions. But especially when the snow gods start unleashing their bounty of blessings across the Detroit region, new opportunities await that simply do not exist during most of the recreational year. These "Go-To Activities" highlight unique opportunities for cold weather recreation found only within northern climates like Metro Detroit . We hope they inspire your next snow day adventure. 1. Downhill Skiing or Snowboarding | Best for Action Athletes and Adrenaline Junkies Did you know that Michigan has the second-most ski resorts of any U.S. state? Better yet, we have FOUR beloved ski resorts located within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. Even better still , each of Detroit's " Big Four Ski Resorts " are OPEN for the 2025-26 season, and currently have better skiing and riding conditions than most resorts in the mountain west. Why should you consider skiing or snowboarding this winter? Oh boy ...where to even begin. Beyond the phenomenal exercise that skiing and snowboarding provides for your legs, core, and even arms/shoulders for skiers, these sports are BY FAR the most exhilarating for speed hounds and adrenaline junkies. These sports are also the most appealing for every experience level, seeing as each of the "Big Four" ski resorts near Detroit feature terrain suitable for first timers to seasoned pros. 2.   Snowshoeing |    Best for Deep Powder Exploration When the powder starts piling, it's time to bust out the snowshoes . We're talking at least 6 inches or more of compiled snowfall in order to fully capitalize on snowshoeing's efficacy of traveling across snow-covered terrain. The main benefit of snowshoes vs. hiking boots involves its " flotation " capacity, meaning snowshoes spread your weight evenly over a large, flat surface area to avoid sinking in or struggling through deep snow. Snowshoeing attracts most winter recreationists due to the minimal amount of equipment required, the relative affordability of that equipment, and the negligible amount of skill required for proficiency on snowshoes. Beyond obviously acquiring a sturdy pair of snowshoes, we strongly recommend acquiring multi-sport trekking poles for additional stability. Always remember to dress appropriately  for the conditions, especially when snowshoeing. Best practices are to start "slightly cold" at the trailhead, seeing as your body temperature will warm up dramatically as you engage the trail. You will burn noticeably more calories snowshoeing vs. hiking , especially given the additional weight on your feet. BOOK A GUIDED SNOWSHOE TOUR WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 3.   CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING |    Best for Long Distance Trail Expeditions and Cardio Fanatics In case you haven't heard, the Detroit region's rolling topography - especially along its outer rim along the Jackson Interlobate Range - has made Southeast Michigan a cross-country skier's paradise for over a century. Most of our region's first trail systems were built specifically for cross-country skiing. Huron Meadows Metropark even maintains both skate-style and classically groomed cross-country ski trails, covering more than 15 miles of trails groomed for tracked, classic skiing and more than 11 miles of trails groomed for skate-style skiing on moderate terrain with rolling hills. Why should you consider cross-country skiing, especially in relation to downhill skiing? While both exercises provide a great workout, cross-country skiing offers a low-impact, joint-friendly, yet heart-pounding cardio workout that's an ideal off-season pairing for runners and cyclists. Cross-country skiing, with its narrow skis and gliding stance , challenges balance, builds lateral stability in the hips, all while strengthening your arms, legs, and core. Cross-country skiers that ski at least 60 minutes per week during the winter can even benefit from cited reduced risk of heart attacks, development of type 2 diabetes, stroke, and developing high blood pressure. 4.   Late Season Hunting |     Best for Conservation and Deep Woods Contemplation Hold up - a hunting activity in a winter-themed article? That's right, Detroit region residents. Due to our over-abundance of whitetail deer, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has specifically created special extended hunting periods that last until the end of January for our local hunters. In fact, the DNR is practically begging for hunters to stay out in the field and focus their efforts on harvesting a doe. Beyond vitally aiding in our state's wildlife conservation efforts , there are non-game taking rationales for keeping the camo out of storage for the next month and a half. With regard to physical exercise, any successful hunter can attest to the feat of strength that accommodates retrieving a harvested whitetail. However, Expedition Detroit is a firm believer that the main benefit of hunting stems from the mental aspects of the activity - especially during the winter months . Beyond the resiliency required to sit in the stand in sub-freezing temperatures, the ethereal sensations of watching the sun rise and set over a snow-glistened landscape, silently and purposefully observing the natural world around you, and all while trying to minimize your influence on your natural environment - until a pivotal moment - provides a grounding and primal experience that all outdoor enthusiasts should enjoy. 5.   Hiking and Running |     Best for Thawing and Lighter-Snow Conditions We believe it was Confucius who first penned the ancient proverb, " If it ain't broke, don't fix it. " Alright. It was definitely not Confucius. Regardless, the concept absolutely applies when it comes to continuing your hiking and trail running cold weather exercises all winter long! Even the most passionate winter aficionados know that not all conditions are created equal. For example, as I type these words, it's currently ~50ºF outside in Metro Detroit. The foot+ of snow that had blanketed the Detroit region a week ago is rapidly melting, knocking out at least two of the five activities listed here. That's the primary benefit of hiking and running throughout winter: it's almost always an option, especially hiking. There's no off-season for the Detroit region's trails, so even when the snow is a no-show, you can always lace up the boots or sneakers for an outdoor adventure. Better yet, you can always book a guided outdoor experience with yours truly. BOOK A GUIDED WINTER HIKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT This article serves as an opinion piece to educate but should not be used as direct medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional(s) before making changes to your medications, diet, or physical activity habits. *Note : Medical experts recommend avoiding ice baths if you have a history of heart problems.

With the arrival of the "offseason" for Detroit's running community, now is the perfect time to implement a strength training into your endurance regimen! Here are Team Expedition Detroit's 5 best strength training exercises for runners - complete with verified results. It started at Mile 8. A slight discomfort just outside of my right knee that quietly made its presence known as my run neared Proud Lake's Organizational Campground . Each stride along that long straightaway provided plenty of time for self-assessment. "Is my pace too fast?" Definitely - I was moving roughly 45 seconds per mile faster than my target long-run pace. Time to slow down. " Am I striking incorrectly?" Nope, strike placement seemed fine. Just needed to keep landing intentionally. " Okay, maybe I just need a quick stretching break. No big deal. " I utilized the boulders at the edge of the campground to implement a thorough mid-run stretch. None of these assessments mattered. By Mile 9, this noticeable discomfort had progressed to objective pain. By Mile 10 the pain felt like a knife digging into my knee. The limping started shortly thereafter. Long run: over. The extent of my injury - acute medial meniscal discomfort due to overtraining and under recovery - became evident over the coming days. After nearly a full season of high-performing races and long runs, including a mid-season Kilimanjaro summit for some extra flair, I was now humbled to a mere 1 mile run before severe pain flared up again. I opted for two full weeks of rest in a last-ditch effort to preserve my Detroit Free Press Marathon aspirations. The net benefit of that rest? I could now run a whopping 1. 25 miles without pain. Great . My 2024 marathon dreams were objectively crushed, and as the jubilant headlines and social media posts flooded the Expedition Detroit feed, I was left licking my wounds and wondering which micro-decisions led to this ultimate failure. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER: Recovery Starts with Assessment

Written by Dr. Eric Reilly, here we thoroughly examine one of the most pressing health risks in the Detroit region - chronic physical inactivity - and the profound medical benefits of hiking your favorite trails! This Halloween, I wanted to share a true tale of terror that haunts the Detroit area’s medical community . A silent killer that moves undetected through each of its neighborhoods. A verifiable infliction that thrives within its host for years before it rears its ugly head. No, this isn’t a virus, parasite, or a mutated variant of the cordyceps fungus. This killer is chronic physical inactivity , and it’s running rampant throughout North America – and particularly in the Detroit region. THE VULNERABILITY OF THE DETROIT REGION This should hopefully not come as a surprise, but remaining active and exercising regularly is paramount in protecting your health . Regardless of your demographic, and especially in the Detroit region. Why? Because in terms of Metro Detroit's personal health, the deck is most likely stacked against us. For starters, our modern work schedules and physically latent jobs make active lifestyles immensely difficult to prioritize . The average working adult in the United States works 34.6 hours per week and the average commute in Metro Detroit is 55.2 minutes round trip. Crunching the numbers, it’s fair to estimate the average working adult in Metro Detroit spends roughly 32% of their awake time at work, allotting for 8 generous hours of sleep. However, it isn’t just the time spent at work, but also the type of work which plays a major role in one’s health. Some studies suggest sedentary occupations have high occurrences of heart attacks, strokes, and premature death. Even when away from the office, work and life in general can be mentally taxing. To cope with mental stressors, individuals may make poor food choices and adopt idle home habits, which can exacerbate negative health outcomes. Within the Detroit region, this particular issue is compounded since many areas fall into a “ Food Swamp ” classification, defined as communities that often have high-calorie, low-cost food options – in addition to financial constraints. Stated differently, Food Swamp conditions typically cause healthier food options to remain scarce or beyond the budget. As a result of these factors, mass routines of dormancy have spread a “physical inactivity epidemic” that is wreaking havoc across Michigan. Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes of common diseases such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and heart disease. When uncontrolled, conditions such as diabetes can lead to serious ailments such as kidney failure, loss of limbs, and heart attacks. Nearly 25% of Michigan residents do not exercise monthly, 35.1% have high blood pressure , 34.7% are obese, 11.7% have diabetes, and 29% of all deaths are from cardiovascular disease . PITFALLS OF OVER-THE-COUNTER SHORTCUTS One could reasonably assume that simply taking medication will solve their medical problems, but medications alone may not fix the cause - and can have debilitating side effects. For example, common medications for high blood pressure cause the blood pressure to appear lower, but the underlying disease often still exists. Such medications can act as a short-cut for symptom management, but one should consider making long term changes – such as diet and exercise – to help reverse the disease. Just like on the trail, shortcuts in medicine can be dangerous. Without proper long-term disease management, the damage can compound and high blood pressure can lead to kidney failure, stroke, heart failure, and even death. While standard practices like surgery can solve some physical problems, all surgeries have risks and those risks grow exponentially when a patient presents with severe underlying conditions or disease. For example, obese patients undergoing surgery have higher risks of developing infections, kidney failure, blood clots, and unplanned hospital readmissions. If an obese patient is taking a GLP-1 agonist, they have increased risks of perioperative aspiration which can result in respiratory failure and death. One may assume the increased risks would lead to less surgery in obese patients but, to the contrary, the chances of having a knee replacement are 8 times higher for patients with a BMI over 30, and 28 times higher for a BMI over 35. Clearly, the safest journey through life is one which minimizes disease burden and the need for medical treatment. By preventing common diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, one can reduce the risk of severe complications such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney failure. Luckily, an easy and affordable way to help prevent and reverse common disease is through physical activity – such as hiking around Metro Detroit! TRAIL THERAPY FOR PHYSICAL LONGEVITY Now that we’ve hopefully scared any inactivity right out of you, let’s shift this article’s focus to how important physical activity is in preserving one’s quality and longevity of life. Better yet, let’s utilize a practical example to illustrate how you can incorporate a methodical approach to physical exercise into your recreational passions: hiking Island Lake Recreation Area’s Yellow Trail Loop . The Yellow Trail Loop is a 40 minute drive from downtown Detroit and spans 5.5 miles with 278 feet of elevation gain, which is enough of a hike to get anyone’s heart pumping. But, what does that exercise do? For starters, the average person burns roughly 100 calories for every mile walked. With elevation considered, walking this trail could burn roughly 500-700 calories. Regular exercise and aerobic activities - like hiking the Yellow Trail Loop - can provide phenomenal health benefits over a lifetime. Such a trail-centric lifestyle can cut the risk of coronary heart disease in half, lower blood pressure by up to 10 points, reduce insulin requirements in type-1 diabetes, reverse type-2 diabetes, lower cholesterol levels, decrease risks of colon cancer, enhance the immune system, reverse osteoporosis, and improve bone density. HIKE THE ISLAND LAKE YELLOW TRAIL LOOP WITH US THIS FALL! Hiking specifically can increase one’s baseline metabolic rate, which makes it easier to maintain weight loss – as opposed to dieting where weight can be regained easily. Hiking also releases stored endogenous catecholamines, which can relieve muscle tension and anxiety . Hiking can even improve sleep through sun-induced balance of circadian rhythms and regulation of hormones. Physical benefits aside, the mental benefits are immeasurable . Embracing nature, observing wildlife, appreciating the solitude, and removing oneself from the chaotic congested streets of everyday life can be soul cleansing. By definition, a hike is just a long walk on a trail. If the idea of a "hike" is insurmountable, then any aerobic activity – preferably outdoors – is a great substitute to reap similar health benefits. Even just a walk around the block helps more than sitting inside. The physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise , such as hiking, are clear. Life is busy and it is difficult to prioritize oneself, loved ones, work, diet, exercise, and everything else the world demands. Yet, it is even harder to manage those priorities when faced with personal health ailments. The keys to remaining healthy are regular doctor appointments, diet, and exercise. Even when feeling healthy - go in for an annual check-up with a physician, substitute the fried food for vegetables, and make efforts to increase your physical activity. Lace up the boots and try a new trail, or a bike ride, or even a walk around the block. Refer to Expedition Detroit to find inspiration for new local trails . Don’t be afraid to wake up early and catch a sunrise from a dew-dropped wooded path. The more you do it, the longer you will be able to keep doing it. As best stated by professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones, “…wake up early for a dawn patrol or jump into that cold mountain lake and send while you can.” EXPERIENCE THE DETROIT REGION'S #1 NIGHT HIKING ADVENTURE! Dr. Reilly is an anesthesiologist born and raised in Southeast Michigan. Dr. Reilly is currently an Attending Anesthesiologist & Clinical Instructor at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, as well as a Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Medicine Fellow at the University of Washington Medical Center. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Reilly is an accomplished backpacker, deep powder skier, and an invaluable early supporter of Expedition Detroit . He credits his grandfathers for teaching him the beauty and spirit of Michigan’s great wilderness. This article serves as an opinion piece to educate but should not be used as direct medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional(s) before making changes to your medications, diet, or physical activity habits.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month , we're exploring the many ways that living an outdoor lifestyle can actively benefit your mental health. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth Let’s be honest: life can be hard. Really, uncomfortably, ridiculously hard. Between bills, work, exercise, family, and friends — sometimes even just thinking about navigating through the day can make your head spin.  Unfortunately, current data reflecting the mental health epidemic in the United States is alarming. According to a 2022 study , 46%   of adults under the age of 35 said they had recently experienced feelings of being so stressed that they felt that they could not properly function in their daily lives. That's not even including those of us who soldier on - even when we’re clinically burnt out  - and ready to sleep for a year straight. So...is there any good news? Fortunately, YES . Better yet, there’s something free and accessible to everyone that can greatly help us all deal with everyday life's ups and downs.  Making nature a part of your daily routine will have a MAJOR positive impact on your mental health.   In this article, you’ll learn: Why being outside is so good for your mental health Ways you can live an outdoor lifestyle (without needing to become a mountain recluse) How you can still get the benefits of an outdoor lifestyle when living in a major city Why is Being Outside So Good for Mental Health? Is spending time outdoors good for you? Absolutely! Nature has countless mental health benefits for you to enjoy.  Plus, scientists are discovering increasingly more positive effects on mental health every day. Let’s get into it. An Outdoor Lifestyle Lowers Stress Levels  SO MANY people struggle with high levels of stress. It’s an epidemic in its own right. When you’re clinically stressed out, your nervous system stays on high alert. It can mistake everyday circumstances (like a looming deadline or a difficult conversation) for a life-and-death situation. Your body, as it was evolutionarily programed, goes into fight or flight mode.  Prolonged periods of high stress significantly increase your risk for other mental health problems and weakens your immune system. But if you get outside a little bit each day, you significantly reduce the negative effects stress has on your body - even if for just 20 minutes. ☀️ An outdoor lifestyle can reduce stress by: Lowering your cortisol (stress hormone) levels, especially when compared to urban environments   Easing your muscle tension Stimulating your senses to help you be more mindful Recent studies have supported that spending time in nature can lower your cortisol levels and ease your muscle tension. Nature can also calm down your sympathetic nervous system that controls your fight or flight response. Plus, when you’re outside, it’s significantly easier to practice mindfulness . All of your senses simply come alive. For example, you can… Feel the sun on your skin  Smell the freshly cut grass  Hear the birds chirp Taste the salty air by the seaside See the sunrise or sunset  Just noticing what’s around you will draw you into the present moment. Mindfulness is a proven mental health solution to reduce stress. Getting Outside Reduces Anxiety & Depression Symptoms Unfortunately, many of us will deal with anxiety and depression throughout our lives. Both can make it difficult for you to function and complete everyday tasks if left untreated. Mental health professionals often recommend time outside to combat symptoms associated with these disorders.   ☀️ Getting outside can reduce depression and anxiety symptoms by: Getting you out of your head and reducing intrusive (undesirable) thoughts Lowering activity in the part of the brain linked to negative thought patterns Encouraging movement and exercise Medical studies have noted a " significant and sizeable " correlation between green space and postitive community mental health reports. Nature's instinct mindfulness is a key remedy for helping you "get out of your own head." Instead of lingering on negative or harmful thoughts, nature encourages us to turn our attention outward and focus on the hear-and-now vs. the troubles of modern life.  Going outside also encourages movement . And, as we all know, exercise provides so many positive benefits for both our physical and mental health. An Outdoor Lifestyle Helps You Get Better Sleep It’s no surprise that sleep plays an important role in your mental health. We all wake up a bit cranky if we get less than especially 5 hours of sleep.  But did you know that going outside can actually help you sleep better ?  ☀️ An outdoor lifestyle helps you get better sleep by: Resets your circadian rhythm from natural sunlight Increasing melatonin production so you can fall asleep faster and easier Lowers symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety Your circadian rhythm is your body’s internal clock that tells you when it’s time to sleep and when it’s time to wake up. It does this by releasing different hormones at different points throughout the day.   Your circadian rhythm works largely through exposure to natural sunlight and darkness. Experiencing sunlight during the day helps your body produce more melatonin at nighttime.  Net result? You'll have a much easier time falling - and staying - blissfully asleep.  Getting Outdoors Improves Your Mood An outdoor lifestyle not only decreases negative mental health symptoms. It also helps increase positive mental health symptoms. Like improving your mood . So, if you need a mood-boost, try getting outside! ☀️ Getting outdoors helps you improve your mood by: Increasing feelings of calm, joy, and creativity  Helping you experience awe Strengthening your self-confidence Decreasing negative emotions creates a trickle-down effect. Nature creates more space for you to experience positive emotions. It opens up more headspace for joy, creativity, and awe. When you look at beautiful nature scenes, you experience awe. Which helps improve your overall mood . An Outdoor Lifestyle Helps You Feel Less Lonely Loneliness may not seem like that big of a deal. But as humans, we’re hardwired as social creatures. We NEED connection .     Without meaningful relationships, our mental health suffers. You’re at more risk for other mental health disorders when you feel chronically lonely.  ☀️ An outdoor lifestyle helps you feel less lonely by: Giving you a sense of connection with the natural world Encouraging connection with other people An outdoor lifestyle encourages you to make meaningful connections.  You get exposed to not only more people when you get outside, but you also foster a connection with nature. Realizing and appreciating that you’re a part of something bigger than yourself helps you feel less lonely. Easy Outdoor Activities to Improve Your Mental Health  Now that you know all of the amazing ways that nature improves your mental health, let’s talk about how to put that knowledge into action .  There are so many ways you can incorporate outdoor activities into your daily routines so that you can live an outdoor lifestyle. Here are just a few ideas for including simple outdoor activities into your daily life: Take fresh air breaks.  Working in an office all day long? Take a couple of minutes to step outside when you go on your breaks.  Drink your morning coffee outside.  Instead of at the kitchen table, take your coffee onto your balcony or porch.  Exercise outside.  If you already exercise regularly, try taking it outside. You’ll get the benefits from both the exercise AND the fresh air . Short walks.  You’re busy. If you don’t have time for a full-on hike , take a five-minute walk outside instead.  Indoor plants.  Bring nature inside with indoor plants. Yes, even if you don’t have a green thumb (certain houseplants like the snake plant are pretty hard to kill). Invest in your outdoor future. If all else fails, sometimes investing in your own outdoor future will be the driving force to finally kick-start your time in nature. Fortunately, booking an experience like a guided hike within a local park can be an efficient and cost-effective way to reap nature's mental, physical, and social benefits.   These are all activities you can easily incorporate into your everyday. They increase your outside time without taking away from your busy schedule. What if I Can’t Get Myself to Go Outside? Anxiety and depression can sometimes make it difficult to get out of bed, let alone plan a day outside. We're all merely human, and some days the weight of modern life bears down more aggressively than others. So what can you do if you’re struggling to get outside? Here are a few simple ways to get more nature exposure when you’re struggling with motivation: Look out a window .  If you can’t get outside, don’t beat yourself up - just looking outside is the next best thing. Studies show that patients even recover from surgery faster when they have a hospital room with a window . Sit on a balcony or porch . If you don’t have the energy or motivation to go on a walk, try switching locations by sitting on your balcony or porch.  Get an indoor plant . If all else fails, bring nature to you. You can order a houseplant online and have it delivered right to your door! Exercise . Even turning your living room into a makeshift gym through knocking out 20 minutes of push ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks will for 20 minutes will benefit your mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. The key is to start small.  You don’t need to hike a mountain on day one. Small incremental steps, done consistently overtime, can yield staggering results. Where can I Find Nature? This is unfortunately a very common question, especially here in the Detroit region. For one historical or societal reason or another, many aspiring Metro Detroit outdoor enthusiasts do not believe that they live near nature definitely a valid question. More than half of the world’s population currently lives in cities.  Easy places to find nature in major cities like Detroit: Public parks and greenways like the Dequindre Cut Greenway Botanical gardens like Ann Arbor's Nichols Arboretum Riverwalks and waterfronts like the award-winning Detroit Riverwalk Community gardens N ature is truly everywhere  if you go looking to experience it - and your mental health will thank you. EXPLORE NATURE ON BELLE ISLE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT We want to hear from you!  How has nature impacted your mental health? Leave us a comment below! Disclaimer : This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a therapist or other qualified mental healthcare provider with any questions that you may have regarding a medical condition.

The grand, festive finale of our #EmbraceTheDark Series, we invite you to join us in celebrating the shortest solar day of the year through one, two, or all of these top 5 experiences for making the most of the 2025 Winter Solstice in Detroit's outdoors . Let's start this article with good news: TOMORROW, December 21st , is one of the best days of the year to get outside . In all respects, it will be a weird day. A very, very short and cold day. The perfect day to carpe diem , because if you blink, well, you just might miss it. Tomorrow is December 21st, 2025, a.k.a. the " Winter Solstice . " It marks not only the official first day of winter in the northern hemisphere, but also the shortest solar day of the year. The sun will rise at 8:04 a.m. and set at 5:04 p.m., providing us with exactly 9 hours, 4 minutes, and 6 seconds of daylight. The perfect timeframe to make every moment count in Detroit's outdoors. Before diving into our "Top Five Experiences," let's acknowledge one glaring contradiction: this #EmbraceTheDark article is not about the dark. If anything, it's about the fear of the dark - five ways to maximize the fleeting amount of daylight that greatly expands our ability to recreate uninhibited in the outdoors. So yes, we're breaking from the status quo a bit here - but given the natural human aversion to setting out for nocturnal expeditions, we figured most readers would appreciate ending this series on a brighter, sunnier note. Here are the top five experiences for experiencing the Winter Solstice in Detroit's Outdoors . 1. Watch the Sunrise from "The Tip" at Point Pelee National Park The single best way to kick off the shortest solar day of the year is by venturing to the single location where you are most likely to witness its genesis . We tested this theory back in 2022 and can confirm its veracity. A quick glance at our Destinations map will further prove our point: "The Tip" at Point Pelee National Park in Ontario, Canada wins out as the most dramatic location to experience a sunrise in the entire Detroit region. Hiking out to Point Pelee is just the tip of the ice burg (pun intended) for experiencing the national park. We've referenced Point Pelee numerous times throughout our articles - including a full #TrailTuesday feature - but Canada's second-smallest national park packs a massive recreational punch for outdoor enthusiasts of all genres. We're talking extensive marsh kayaking, beach hiking, pristine cycling, and world-class bird watching. Absolutely worth a full-day visit over the holidays if you're unable to make it out tomorrow morning for sunrise. 2. Support Michigan Wildlife Conservation from the Stand Did you know that we're only just past the halfway point of Southeast Michigan's deer season...? That's right - deer season in the Detroit region 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 . This Winter Solstice, Southeast Michigan hunters can add purpose to their recreation by participating in this year's " anterless deer season ." Between now and January 12th, 2025, Michigan hunters may hunt antlerless deer on both private and public lands open to regular firearm hunting. Be sure to continue wearing hunter orange in the field for this time period! Why is this season so important? As we've highlighted several times this season, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources  has specifically called on lower peninsula hunters to focus primarily on harvesting a doe . Increased doe harvests provide several long-term ecological and economic benefits , including reduced cases of disease transmission, vehicle accidents involving deer, deer population balancing, and destruction of farmland. GEAR UP FOR HUNTING SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 3. Hike a New Trail for your Mid-Day Exercise Unable to get that morning run in? Eh, hike it off - but figuratively and physically. Tomorrow's "mid-day" point will hit at exactly 12:30 p.m., right in the dead center of a typical lunch hour. We strongly encourage you to seize this rapidly diminishing moment of daylight to zip up your jacket, lace up your boots, and ground yourself in at least 30 minutes of hiking on a "new-to-you" trail . Similar to a morning run, scientific studies have proven that recreating in the outdoors during both the weekends and the workday - even if such recreation comprises solely of a walk around a park near your office - immensely boosts productivity cognitive functions while decreasing hormones inducing stress, anxiety, and depression. These mental health benefits are further amplified when exploring new environments vs. familiar routes that you could probably sleepwalk. For your own sake, we challenge you to find a new trail in your immediate vicinity that you can spend a "mental health hike" exploring today. Who knows, it may become your next go-to park for a mid-day walk... until next year's Winter Solstice prompts the discovery of another. 4. Watch the Sunset from a Chairlift Elevation be damned, there is one undeniable aspect of Detroit's "Big Four" ski resorts that our local hills absolutely crush: night skiing . I don't care how many times you've skied or snowboarded at the Big Four, there's a childlike instinct that comes out when the giant lamps start to glow around sunset. Your legs could be shaking a bit after carving up the slopes all day, but when those lights start to illuminate the hill, a surge of new life springs from the illuminated snow. As we mentioned earlier, tomorrow's sunset is scheduled for 5:04 p.m. Fortunately for our resident night riders, each of the Big Four have special, discounted tickets that run from 3 p.m. until the resorts close. In other words, you should be on the slopes with plenty of time to maximize the Solstice's remaining daylight, caught a multi-colored #PureMichigan sunset, and burn the late-night oil churning turns under the lamps. Name a better way to catch the final rays of the shortest day of the year - we'll wait. 5. Explore Your State Parks AT NIGHT with Expedition Detroit Contrary to popular belief, your adventure in Detroit's outdoors doesn't have to end once the sun goes down. Especially now that we're in the heart of the "dark days," treat yourself to a nocturnal expedition by saving your spot on one of our fan-favorite "Night Hiking Safaris" this winter! While our classic " Maybury Night Hiking Safari " remains Expedition Detroit's top-rated experience, we've decided to expand our night hiking adventures to Proud Lake State Recreation Area's " Expedition Loop " and Highland State Recreation Area's " Haven Hill Loop " for this winter season! On the Winter Solstice, we will be leading a special celebratory night hike to explore the rolling landscapes, wetlands, heights, and ruins of Haven Hill. The hike will take place from 6PM to 8PM, so don't forget your headlamp! EXPLORE HIGHLAND'S HAVEN HILL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT We're celebrating the Winter Solstice spent in the outdoors because this day encapsulates the values of Detroit's growing outdoor community. Making the most of every opportunity accessible to us. Not allowing any obstacles, whether those are man-made, environment-induced, or literally celestial like sunlight quantity, to affect your capacity for embracing and thriving in an outdoor lifestyle. Forcing us to face the reality that not all days are created equal, but that fact should motivate rather than discourage us from lacing up the running shoes, strapping on the helmet, or adding an extra layer before getting after it. There's definitely a formal definition for the word "Expedition," but we're not going to Google it for this article. This Winter Solstice, let's each invent our own definition, starting with " the maximization of every outdoor experience presented to you today. " That's our expedition for this Winter Solstice - and we can't wait to see you on the trail.

Alpine. Brighton. Holly. Pine Knob. You know them, you've skied them, and generations have loved them. But what makes each resort stand out from the pack? Are there any special features, offerings, or other traits that could influence buying one lift ticket over another? We dive into these questions and more in our official Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - updated for the Winter 2026 Season! Ladies and gentlemen, it's time. Sharpen your skis, wax your boards, update your helmet , and buy that jacket  you've had your eyes on.  The snow makers are blowing - and as of today the real stuff is FINALLY falling again - which means winter has arrived in Detroit ! As excited as that makes us, let's hit the pause button real quick and look outside the window. While we at Expedition Detroit  HQ do not see enough of that sweet, fluffy powder to kick off our wishlist of backcountry  skiing and snowshoeing adventures , the snow's delayed arrival highlights an under-appreciated element of our region: We have FOUR premiere ski resorts within an hour's drive of our near-sea level city . Our "Big Four" resorts - Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob  - have formed the bedrock of Detroit's wintry outdoor economy for generations, providing slope access to generations that would otherwise need to travel hundreds of miles for the same experiences. This article provides much-overdue recognition and information regarding each of the Big Four. Beyond providing stats and recommendations, we also want to highlight what makes each of these resorts stand out in their own right. New for the 2025-2026 season ,  we've also included information on each resort's can't-miss events happening throughout this winter. Spoiler alert : you're going to want to ski all four by the time that you finish this article.

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

In honor of the Winter Solstice, here is Expedition Detroit's guide to harnessing the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of Norway's transformative "Friluftsliv" approach to winter recreation. " Yeah ...these definitely aren't waterproof." It's 9 a.m. sharp and I've just reached the Vidden trailhead in Europe's rainiest city: Bergen, Norway . A ~10 mile trek across the roof of Bergen lies ahead, starting with 1,300 steps to reach Bergen's highest point, Ulriken. I had assumed my brand new trail shoes were waterproof; the unmistakable sponging noise emanating from my feet dictated otherwise. At the halfway point on those stairs, I turned around to admire a nonexistent vista of Bergen that the thick mist robbed me of. The density of the cloud cover shrouded over the world below, save only the barren hillside and carefully-placed stone steps within my immediate vicinity. Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" played on a loop in my head, and since I had found myself alone in this cloud country, I decided to sing along: " There's a lady who's su- " Just seconds into belting my best Robert Plant impression, the show ended as I realized that I was not alone on the stairs. A figure dressed in all white emerged from the mist below, climbing at an alarmingly quick pace. I had read about the "legendary athleticism" of Norwegians, so seeing this figure trekking up the hill lit that competitive fire burning within every American. Soaked shoes be damned , I was going to beat this person up the mountain. Yeah ...I didn't . A few minutes later I found myself on the side of the trail, giving him a courteous " Hallo " as he ran right past me and up the stairs. In my defense, this was clearly not his first time on this trail - the dude was decked out in trail running swag, dressed more for an Olympic heat than a casual morning trek like yours truly. He ran up this slick stairs like a mountain goat - and was heading back down before I could even summit . Summit of Mt. Ulriken - Bergen, Norway Beyond upholding the national stereotype, what impressed me the most about this particular Norwegian wasn't his pace, technique, or sponsors, but simply that he was out there in those conditions . And he wasn't alone - as I completed the Vidden Trek, I crossed paths with countless Norwegians of all ages enjoying downpour conditions along the trail. From young school children to elderly couples, they ventured through the windswept, rain-clogged terrain like a bluebird summer's day. I tried to emulate the locals by seizing every recreational opportunity that day, including a "true summit" of Mt. Ulriken. Back in the States, a quick Google search unveiled that my experience wasn't some rare encounter with extraordinary outdoor enthusiasts. Norway, along with Scandinavia as a whole, has adopted a social construct known as " Friluftsliv " (pronounced "free-loofts-liv"). While this word translates roughly to " open-air living " or " free air life ," its practical application to Norway's year-round outdoor culture, quality of life, and national heritage has fundamentally changed the country for the better. In fact, despite experiencing more rain, cold, and less daylight than most countries on earth, Norway consistently ranks as one of the world's happiest countries . As we in the Detroit region head into our " dark season " - which, again, is significantly tamer than Norway's - we would immensely benefit from a wholesale adoption their friluftsliv lifestyle. Just like Scandinavia, the Great Lakes region as a whole is blessed with a four season climate that perfectly supports year-round recreation ( verifiably one of many reasons for a century of Scandinavian emigration to the Great Lakes ). We already have the temporal elements, recreational infrastructure, and world-class destinations to reap the benefits of friluftsliv . All that we're missing is the cultural component - the critical missing piece that this article is intended to remedy. INTRODUCING FRILUFTSLIV: NORWAY'S FAVORITE PASTTIME Centuries of Norwegians have instilled an integral love for nature in humanity's most sustainable way: habitual and generational introduction to seasonal recreation . Similar to the modern father who teaches their child to hunt or mother that skies just behind her toddler, Norwegians recognized the purely recreational benefits of spending time in nature long before the term friluftsliv was first penned by Henrik Ibsen in 1859 . In doing so, Ibsen simply wanted to create a name for his country's love of spending time in remote locations for spiritual and physical well-being. The Norwegian government, on the other hand, decided to formalize their citizens' connection with nature . The government created a set of laws that codified Norwegians' right to enjoy friluftsliv, including the famous " Right to Roam. " The government also sponsors "libraries" where outdoor enthusiasts can "check out" outdoor gear. Even Norway's educational system has followed suit, including the establishment of several outdoor kindergartens (friluftsbarnehager) where the children spend 80% of the time outdoors, and the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree in friluftsliv. According to Norway's official tourism site , friluftsliv is not "just a thing," but rather "a whole philosophy, a way life." Friluftsliv represents a "commitment to celebrate time outdoors, no matter your age, physical condition, and regardless of the season and weather forecast." Better yet, there's no wrong way to friluftsliv - regardless of whether a Norwegian has embarked on a multi-day cross-country skiing expedition or is spending an afternoon relaxing in their hammock, the universal goal of a successful friluftsliv endeavor involves "relaxing, refreshing, and re-energizing." Unsurprisingly, friluftsliv constitutes Norway's most preferred recreational activity, with a reported 90% participation rate . Seriously. And, with participation figures that high, Norway boasts equally impressive data regarding the physical and mental benefits of its recreational culture. MENTAL AND PHYSICAL BENEFITS OF FRILUFTSLIV This should hopefully come as a shock to no one, but regular physical exercise is extremely good for you. This is a point that the Expedition Detroit team tries to reinforce across the entirety of our platform, including Dr. Eric Reilly's fantastic article on the longevity benefits of hiking that we strongly recommend for everyone to read. Thanks to friluftsliv , Norwegians have reaped these health benefits for generations. Norway's population enjoys a verifiably good health status : the country's life expectancy of 83.3 years is the highest in Europe, its has one of the lowest rates of deaths from treatable causes among Europe, and 75% of the population is categorized as being "in good health." When discussing winter recreation, however, we place slightly more emphasis on the measurable mental health benefits of friluftsliv . As we mentioned prior, engaging in friluftsliv isn't limited in Norway to specific activities, demographics, or seasons. Anyone, at any point in the year, time of day, or temporal condition, can engage in a friluftsliv adventure. As you may have predicted, the mental health benefits from such accessibility - especially during winter - are astonishing . Norwegian studies have demonstrated that just being in outdoor spaces for extended periods of time reduce anxiety and improve cognition. In a 2020 survey, 90% of Norwegians stated that they felt less stressed and in a better mood after spending time in nature - regardless of their recreational activity of choice. In 2023, the U.N.'s " World Happiness Report " ranked Norway as the seventh happiest country in the world, while both Bergen and Oslo placed among the top 10 happiest cities Specifically with regard to the mental health benefits of winter recreation, health psychologist Kari Leibowitz , PhD noted an interesting fact regarding Norway's population. Her work found that " the further north people lived, the more positive their view of winter was – and that this mindset that ‘winter is wonderful’ was associated with life satisfaction and psychological wellbeing .” Here's the wildest part : that data comes from cities like Tromsø where the sun does not rise between November 21st and January 21st. Despite the perpetual darkness, locals actually report lower levels of wintertime depression due to continuing to engage in recreational activities like hiking, dogsledding, skiing, whale watching, and viewing the Northern Lights. HOW DETROITERS CAN ADOPT FRILUFTSLIV THIS WINTER Now that we've inundated you with more Norwegian recreational knowledge than you ever wanted to learn, one looming question remains: If Norway can harness the physical and mental benefits of prolonged winter, then why can't we..? Spoiler alert : not only can the Detroit region successfully adapt the friluftsliv lifestyle to our outdoor culture, but we would be fools not to. The health statistics regarding the Detroit region are disappointing at best when compared to Norway's high-flying stats. The average life expectancy within the City of Detroit has dropped to 69 over the last decade, Seasonal Affective Disorder ("SAD") hospitalizes an estimated 500,000 Americans each year, and historically marginalized demographics within the Detroit region like Black and Hispanic residents are statistically more likely to encounter severe and incapacitating symptoms of SAD - while paradoxically having less access to beneficial treatments. Will the widespread adoption of friluftsliv remedy these societal ills overnight? We wish so, but sadly, no. As we have covered, it took even the Norwegians centuries for the outdoor lifestyle to fundamentally permeate and change its culture. But hardly anything good in life comes quickly, and i n light of the explosive growth that Detroit's outdoor industry is continuing to experience post-pandemic , NOW represents the perfect opportunity to start implementing friluftsliv's core components into our wintry recreational ecosystem. Here are four friluftsliv actions that you can start adopting today: 1. DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR THE CONDITIONS | There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. At the core of Norway's outdoor cultural phenomenon lies one simple belief: " There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. " I learned this lesson firsthand while hiking 10+ miles in water-logged hiking shoes. Others have learned through nearly freezing to death, both in Scandinavia and throughout the Great Lakes region. Friends, here's the best news: you do not need to re-learn this lesson . When it comes to cold weather recreation, the name of the game is simply dressing in layers . Here's a crash-course on layering : Base Layer ("underwear layer") : Arguably most important layer; goal is to wick sweat off your skin. Middle Layer ("insulating layer") : Should retain body heat to protect you from the cold. Outer Layer ("shell layer") : Largely weather-dependent; shields you from wind, snow, sleet, and rain - and provides extra insulation. Specifically for the Detroit region, your middle layer should provide enough warmth to handle freezing temperatures. Likewise, your outer layer should be waterproof for sleet and snowy conditions. For visibility purposes, also look for jackets that have reflective attributes  like reflective logos and other hits that light sources will pick up. The final clothing items that you should include in your winter recreation gear checklist are for your extremities. Regardless of whether your middle or outer layer features a hood, we always recommend a warm beanie  or similar hat to cover your head and ears. Gloves or mittens  are also an essential, especially if you plan to carry trekking poles  with you. Last but certainly not least, don't forget warm and durable hiking socks  to ground your trek. 2. CONTINUE RECREATING OUTDOORS | Friluftsliv is more than just an activity, it’s a lifestyle. Now that you're fully-outfitted for the cold, the next step is both the simplest and hardest: keep recreating outdoors . As any Norwegian can attest, a " friluftsliv offseason" simply does not exist. Rain or shine, snow or mud, even light or dark , every day provides an opportunity for engaging in friluftsliv . Again, here's the most beautiful component regarding the friluftsliv lifestyle: the goal is finding peace and quiet, not necessarily breaking a sweat. Friluftsliv  is purposefully inclusive - in fact, we can't think of a more disability-friendly activity than simply pursuing the act of being present in nature . A winter friluftsliv outing could include a slow hike along your favorite snow-covered trail , cross-country skiing, fat tire mountain biking, ice skating, ice fishing, ice bathing ( more on that in a minute ), stargazing , or simply sitting by a campfire. BOOK A GUIDED HIKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT THIS WINTER! 3. BUILD RESILIENCY BY NORMALIZING DIFFICULTY | Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power. Alright...here's where we add a special Expedition Detroit twist on the friluftsliv ethos. One which Norwegian professional athletes have harnessed and utilized to dominate the Winter Olympics for nearly a century. A component that we vow to encourage as friluftsliv hopefully catches on throughout our region. Winter recreation provides the perfect opportunity to build resiliency . Grit. Toughness. Fortitude. All of the basic components required to excel in a sport, venture, pursuit, and life as a whole. Okay, we'll tone it back for a second. Just by simply engaging in friluftsliv during our winter months, you will instill some degree of resiliency into your life . Winter in Detroit is cold, and therefore uncomfortable. By consistently encountering that discomfort, you will gradually normalize facing adversity - and overcoming it. If we as a community were to comprehensively adopt that approach to our daily life, then only God knows what we other challenges we could overcome. Here are three ways that you could introduce resiliency into your wintertime recreational agenda: TAKE ICE BATHS. Yes, believe the hype that you've seen all over social media . Taking regular ice baths (i.e., at least 11 minutes per week) have been purported to reduce inflammation and swelling, boost your mood, relieve sore muscles, aid in recovery, support immunity, and generally improve mental health.* CAMP OUTDOORS. Camping season does not end during the warmer months. In fact, simply sleeping outside throughout the year has proven to improve immune system functionality and speed up metabolic rates. During winter, studies show that continuing to camp in cold conditions helps reduce inflammation, improve our brain's cognitive functionality, and further increase metabolism as the body burns more fat to keep warm. LEARN A NEW SPORT. When the snow starts falling and the ice freezes over, a whole new world of outdoor recreation comes alive. The Detroit region provides ample, beginner-friendly terrain for new skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and fat tire mountain bikers to hone their new skills. Better yet, the act of acquiring a new skillset has been proven to diminish the onset of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and other memory-affecting ailments. 4. PERFECT YOUR "HYGGE" RECOVERY ROUTINE | Balancing intensity with deep rest and recovery keeps you fresh and strong In Robin Sharma's incredible book The 5AM Club , its fictitious protagonist Stone Riley provides a lifetime's supply of wisdom to his two pupils. While the majority of his lessons center on self-optimization and productivity, one particular lesson addresses the same but through an entirely different lens. One that provides the "ying" to resiliency's "yang." " You really must learn how to balance working intensity and brilliantly with deep rest and recovery so you can remain fresh and strong over a long career. " For Scandinavians, the restful component to friluftsliv's activism - and one that's especially important during the winter months - involves the concept of " hygge " (Danish, pronounced "hoo-guh"). Simply put, hygge embodies "the pursuit of joy and coziness." Think snow-covered rustic cabins, roaring indoor fires, big mugs of hot cocoa, thick blankets, great books, friends, family - a perfect escape from the often harsh realities of the season. Why should hygge be incorporated into the inherently outdoor lifestyle of friluftsliv...? In one word, recovery . Even the most ardent and expeditious of endurance athletes need a period of rest for their bodies and minds to heal from the demands of their life's pursuit. As such, we owe it to ourselves to create our own version of hygge this winter. A place where we can recover, unwind, and feel rejuvenated for the adventures ahead. For us at Expedition Detroit , our favorite version of hygge as of late has been utilizing a portable sauna after our workouts . While ice baths are largely recommended pre-work out, post-work out sauna sessions have been demonstrated to promote muscle recovery, improve heart health, and aid in relaxation. Please always hydrate before using a sauna, and experts recommend staying in for no longer than 10-20 minutes . *Note : Medical experts recommend avoiding ice baths if you have a history of heart problems.

The Detroit region's emergence as a world-class outdoor destination has originated from its stunning parks, beautiful trails, and abundant wildlife - especially within reclaimed green spaces. Now that we've entered "peak wildlife season," here are the "Big Five" of urban wildlife near Detroit! " Hold on guys - we need to drive quickly. Two lions are fighting up ahead. " Sleep immediately dissipated from my tired eyes. It was 7:20AM on a chilled winter morning in Pilanesberg National Park , South Africa. I had properly celebrated my birthday the night before, so wrestling myself out of bed for an early morning safari had been quite the feat. " Good things come to those who go ." I repeated Delta Airline's marketing motoo consistently as I climbed into the back of the safari truck. My expectations were in the gutter for that particular safari. Pilanesburg, although a destination where you could readily witness the"Big 5" of Africa's wildlife - lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and cape buffalo - was not as well-known for such sightings as the behemoth Kruger National Park. Plus, a large group of my fellow Americans had booked the same tour the day prior and only saw, as they put it, "Two baboons mocking us." With this in mind, I closed my eyes for a short recovery nap as we entered the park. Then the "lions announcement" rang across the truck's intercom. My eyes stayed wide open for the remainder of the safari, capturing one of the most incredible mornings of my life. The victorious lion at daybreak; Pilanesburg National Park, South Africa (2018) The prospect of witnessing Africa's "Big 5" in their natural savanna habitat has propelled the continent's tourism for over half a century. A similar phenomenon of conservation-based global tourism has grown in stride, with with estimates showing wildlife tourism contributing around $343.6 billion to the global economy and sustaining 21.8 million jobs. In 2024, the United States wildlife tourism market alone was valued at approximately $5.7 billion, and is projected to grow significantly, reaching nearly $9.9 billion by 2033. As conservation tourism continues to grow, other regions have followed Africa's example in designating their own "Big 5" animals. In North America , the typical candidates include the bison, moose, grizzly bear, gray wolf, and mountain lion , although polar bears, American alligators, bald eagles, black bears, and caribou also commonly make the cut. National Geographic even produced a 2012 documentary titled " America's Great Animals " on this topic, which you can stream on Disney+ . Our team at Expedition Detroit is also ecstatic about and fascinated with wildlife-based tourism - especially in relation to the dramatic changes in Detroit's ecosystem over the past several decades. Southeast Michigan's outdoor destinations now provide unparalleled opportunities to experience the "Big 5" of urban wildlife near Detroit, both within our resident wilderness areas and backyards. Let's get into what makes the Detroit region so unique for witnessing the "Big 5" of urban wildlife - as well as crowning Metro Detroit's own "Big 5" animals. REINTRODUCING DETROIT: A Resurgent Sanctuary for Urban Wildlife Resurget cineribus . For those of us who haven't kept up with their Latin, the phrase means "It will rise from the ashes." That motto should also ring a bell for our local outdoor enthusiasts - it's the later half of the official motto of the City of Detroit, created by Father Gabriel Richard after the great fire of 1805 had effectively leveled the city. The Detroit of 2025 could empathize strongly with the Detroit of the early 19th century. While we have thankfully not had to deal with an apocalyptic fire, the decades of socioeconomic decline that defined the later 20th century for Detroit led to the eradication of much of the city. Businesses closed. Neighborhoods lost. Entire communities displaced from the city. And yet, our city - and our region - persisted. "Detroit Never Left," as the Eastern Market mural proudly proclaims. Coming out of the 2013 bankruptcy, the city's grit and incontestable work ethic rebuilt a vibrant downtown, reinvigorated its neighborhoods, and not only preserved, but IMMENSELY expanded its green infrastructure. Detroit's parks and trails - especially the Detroit Riverwalk and Belle Isle - remain its crown jewels. The last decade+ has also witnessed an alternative means of resurget . One that is arguably the opposite - yet equally important - version of the shimmering new buildings of downtown. The vacated neighborhoods and eradication of blighted structures paved the way for the "original Detroit," i.e. the nature that has witnessed every phase of the city's progression, to reclaim its territory. Expansive green spaces and urban forests now cover what were once bustling, over-populated city blocks, leading urban developers, ecologists, and artists alike to study, manage, and marvel at nature's resilience. Stated differently, Detroit's long-forgotten wilderness has returned in full-force - along with its wildest inhabitants. With our central urban core now reverse-colonized by nature, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the suburban and rural exterior of the Detroit region has also experienced a dramatic uptick in "urban wildlife." What were once rare sightings of certain elusive animals has now become commonplace in community parks, backyards, and even main streets across our region. We are truly living in a golden age of urban wildlife viewing opportunities in the Detroit region - and here are the "Big 5" that are championing its resurgence. 1. Bald Eagle Binomial Name : Haliaeetus leucocephalus Endangerment Status: Least Concern (population increasing) Estimated Population within Michigan: 900 Most Active Season: Winter months, especially in early morning and late afternoon Big 5 Highlights The Bald Eagle represents far more than just America's national emblem. After facing near-extinction in the 1960s, the Bald Eagle population has rebounded spectacularly across the country - and especially along Metro Detroit's waterways. You'll typically see Bald Eagles soaring high in the sky, flapping low over treetops with slow wingbeats, or perched in trees or on the ground. Bald Eagles scavenge many meals by harassing other birds or by eating carrion or garbage. They eat mainly fish, but also hunt mammals, gulls, and waterfowl. Where to Experience Look for Bald Eagles near lakes, reservoirs, rivers, marshes, and coasts. For a chance to see large Bald Eagle congregations, check out wildlife refuges or large bodies of water in winter over much of the Detroit region. Notable Bald Eagle populations are visible year-round at the following outdoor destinations near Detroit: Kent Lake at Kensington Metropark Harsens Island Point  Mouillee State Game Area Point Pelee National Park Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge 2.  Coyote Binomial Name : Canis latrans Endangerment Status: Least Concern (population increasing) Estimated Population within Michigan: 30,000 - 50,000 Most Active Season: Mid-January - March (breeding season) around sunrise and sunset Big 5 Highlights No "Big 5" list would be complete without a region's apex predator. For the Detroit region's urban wildlife, the Coyote indisputably holds that crown. With cougars, wolves, and black bears effectively removed from Metro Detroit ( for the time being at least ), the Coyote stands alone at the top of the food chain as our region's most prolific carnivore. People are most likely to see and hear Coyotes during their breeding period , which typically occurs January through March. If there is a den nearby, people may also see the adults throughout the summer as they care for their pups. As fall approaches, pups begin dispersing from the den site to establish home ranges of their own. These young dispersing animals are sometimes more visible. Coyotes are active day and night; however, peaks in activity occur at sunrise and sunset. In urban or suburban areas, Coyotes will take advantage of the small mammals and birds that bird feeders and gardens often attract. They may even eat some of the fruits and veggies too. Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and have a keen sense of smell. Garbage or pet food that is left out overnight may also draw their attention. If there are Coyotes in the area, eliminating these potential food sources may make the area less appealing to them. Where to Experience Coyotes are incredibly smart and adaptable predators that have learned to survive in just about any habitat, including densely urban areas like the City of Detroit. They have especially established large urban packs within Northville Township, Southfield, Royal Oak, and Lathrup Village. Notable Coyote populations are visible year-round at the following outdoor destinations near Detroit: Several Oakland County Parks Rotary Park in Livonia Rouge Park Eliza Howell Park Legacy Park in Northville Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area Maybury State Park EXPLORE MAYBURY STATE PARK AT NIGHT WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 3.   Wild Turkey Binomial Name : Meleagris gallopavo Endangerment Status: Least Concern (population increasing) Estimated Population within Michigan: 200,000 Most Active Season: Spring months, especially in early morning Big 5 Highlights Everyone loves a good comeback story, especially when that story involves wildlife restoration. And there's no better story than that of the North American Wild Turkey , which faced the brink of extinction as recently as the 1970s. Thankfully, science-backed conservation regulations restored healthy Wild Turkey populations not only in Michigan, but throughout the entire continent. Due to the resiliency and careful management of the species, Wild Turkey hunting in both the spring and fall continues to represent a cherished past time among Michigan's hunting community - as well as simply admiring the bird alongside your favorite trail. In the spring, male Wild Turkeys give a gobbling call to attract females. In courtship, males puff out their feathers, raise and spread their tails, swell their facial wattles, and droop their wings; in this exaggerated posture, they strut, rattling their wing feathers and making humming sounds. Wary and magnificent, Wild Turkeys usually get around by walking or running, but they can fly strongly, and they typically roost overnight in tall trees. Where to Experience The best habitat for spotting Wild Turkeys comprises of a mixture of woodland and open clearings. Although habitat preferences vary, we recommend visiting one of the Detroit region's many expansive oak-hickory forests , pine-oak forests, swamps, and grasslands. Wild Turkeys tend to roost in tall oak trees since acorns are their food of choice. Notable Wild Turkey populations are visible year-round at the following outdoor destinations near Detroit: Holly State Recreation Area Seven Lakes State Park Highland State Recreation Area Kensington Metropark Lake Erie Metropark 4.  White-Tailed Deer Binomial Name : Odocoileus virginianus Endangerment Status: Least Concern (population increasing) Estimated Population within Michigan: 2,000,000 (disproportionately in Southeast Michigan) Most Active Season: Late fall during the annual "rut," especially in early morning and late afternoon Big 5 Highlights While Michigan is home to the "Big 3" of the Cervidae family - Moose, Elk, and White-Tailed Deer - only one of those reigns supreme in the Detroit region. You guessed it: the White-Tailed Deer , our state's official animal, and the most prolifically-dispersed of the "Big Five." As I type these words, Michigan is currently on the tail-end of " The Rut, " i.e. the breeding season for White-Tailed Deer. The Rut represents the brief time of year when deer are the most active, especially the largest antlered, male deer actively searching for females to reproduce with. Stated differently, regardless of whether you're actively hunting for deer or interested in spotting the largest bucks in our region, there's no better time than late fall to experience the largest of the "Big 5" of Detroit's urban wildlife . White-Tailed Deer live in every county in Michigan and use many different habitats across the state. However, southeast Michigan is notably overpopulated with White-Tailed Deer due to a combination of ample food, shelter, and a lack of natural predators found within a suburban environment , as well as relatively limited hunting access paired with abundant hunting restrictions. Where to Experience Michigan's official state motto is " Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice ," which translates to "If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you." Well, in the Detroit region, our motto could easily be "If you seek a healthy deer population , look about you." White-Tailed Deer are so prolific throughout Metro Detroit that several suburban communities are interested in reinstating urban hunting seasons in order to reign in the ecological and societal havoc caused by too many deer. Notable White-Tailed Deer populations are located at the following outdoor destinations near Detroit: Most municipal parks throughout Metro Detroit, especially in Farmington Hills and Southfield Rotary Park in Livonia Maybury State Park in Northville Oakland County Parks, especially Lyon Oaks County Park Washtenaw County Parks 5.   Great Blue Heron Binomial Name : Ardea herodias Endangerment Status: Least Concern (population increasing) Estimated Population within Michigan: 250,000 Most Active Season: Spring and summer months, especially at dawn and dusk Big 5 Highlights The Great Blue Heron represents the "Official Unofficial" state bird of Michigan - or at least the Detroit region . Beyond its prominence on nature-related signs and insignias, the Great Blue Heron is a fixture across our region's inland and costal waterways. They're especially visible due to their impressive size ( ~4.5 feet tall with ~6.5 feet wingspan ), striking blue-gray feathers, and iconic "S" shaped neck. Their very slow wingbeats, tucked-in neck and trailing legs create an unmistakable image in flight. Great Blue Herons tend to wade slowly or stand statue-like, stalking fish and other prey in shallow water or open fields. Watch for the lightning-fast thrust of the neck and head as they stab with their strong bills. A study found that herons ate mostly diseased fish that would have died shortly anyway. Herons, like most of our regional birds, are legally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Where to Experience Look for Great Blue Herons in freshwater habitats, from open coasts, marshes, sloughs, riverbanks, and lakes to even backyard ponds. They also forage in grasslands and agricultural fields. Notable Great Blue Heron populations are located at the following outdoor destinations near Detroit: Huron River, especially at Kensington Metropark Clinton River Lake St. Clair Metropark Palmer Park Rouge Park Belle Isle State Park, especially at the aptly-named Blue Heron Lagoon BOOK A GUIDED HIKE AT BELLE ISLE STATE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT What is your favorite animal that you've seen in the Detroit region's outdoors? Do you think that we missed an animal that should've been included in our "Big 5 of Detroit's Urban Wildlife" list? Let us know in the comments! Expedition Detroit is proud to showcase the Detroit region's world-class outdoor destinations, organizations, wildlife, and other amenities. If you operate a business, organization, or destination that you would like for us to highlight, please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to learn more.

Michigan's Opening Day for the 2025 whitetail deer firearm season is this Saturday, November 15th ! As you finalize your deer camp preparation, here are 5 essential checklist items for every hunter to cross-off before heading into the woods - as well as 7 safety tips for non-hunters on recreating during firearm season. Friday, November 14th, 2025. 8 o'clock in the morning. The forests and fields throughout the Great State of Michigan are calm under the shroud of overcast skies and a light rain. You could even say eerily calm. Like a deep, restorative inhale of oxygen. This "inhale" isn't coincidental. It's mandated by law . Friday is the final day of Michigan's annual 5-day " quiet period ." A short pause after a month+ of whitetail bowhunting season where our local wild lands are provided an opportunity to pause, reset, and relax without the intermittent crack of a combustible projectile. That all changes on Saturday. In fact, Michigan's outdoors will dramatically change by 8AM that day - and remain changed until December. November 15th is Michigan's official-unofficial state holiday: the Opening Day of Firearm White Deer Season . A generational favorite past time featuring a palpable sentiment of hope permeating through the woods. Regardless of your degree of success during the first leg of bow season - the shut-outs, busts, misses, or glorious harvests - your record is wiped as clean as a fresh blanket of snow. Everything can change in a moment , and with so many hunters shuffling around in the woods on one glorious day, the only thing to expect is the unexpected. With less than 72 hours to go before the first "CRACK" will announce the arrival of firearm season, here is Team Expedition Detroit 's essential "Opening Day Checklist" for every hunter to review and adhere to before stepping into the woods. Each of these actions are intended not only as material preparations for Opening Day, but to recalibrate a hunter's mindset towards the most important aspects of an ethical hunt . Not a hunter? WAIT - don't close out your tab quite yet. We have also included a best practices punch list for safely recreating outdoors during firearm season. 1. PURCHASE YOUR HUNTING LICENSE This shouldn't come as a surprise, but we at Expedition Detroit highly frown upon poaching - especially when it comes at the expense of the DNR . Whitetail hunting licenses are readily available for purchase at most large shopping centers, gun stores, or online . This map maintained by the DNR pins every location where hunting licenses are sold. You MUST carry your hunting license and government-issued identification used to purchase the license EVERY TIME that you enter the field. A DNR conservation officer, a tribal conservation officer, or any law enforcement officer has the right to demand that you present your hunting license upon request. In my professional opinion as an attorney, I strongly advise that you do not find yourself in a situation where your license is not readily-available upon such a request. 2. REVIEW YOUR LOCAL HUNTING REGULATIONS Now that you have the licensed right to hunt, the next step is determining how you can exercise that right. We at Expedition Detroit jump on this step every year through publishing our annual " Michigan Hunting Cheatsheet " articles. Our "Cheatsheet" includes a direct link to the DNR's Hunting Digest - a hunter's Bible for any and all regulations or instructive information that could come into play this season. For whitetail deer, the key regulation to note for us in the Detroit region is that we are in the "limited firearm zone." Limited Firearms include a shotgun, a handgun that is .35-caliber or larger with straight-walled cartridges, a .35-caliber or larger rifle with straight-walled cartridges with a minimum case length of 1.16 inches and a maximum case length of 1.80 inches, and a .35-caliber or larger air rifle or pistol charged only from an external, high compression power source. Other regulations to review include legal hunting hours, firearm safety zones, tagging and mandatory reporting, and clothing requirements ( spoiler alert : wear hunter orange as your outermost garments, like your vest and hat , that are visible from all sides). 3. PREPARE YOUR HUNTING LOCATION Alright, you're crushing it : you have your license and you're all read-up on the applicable regulations. The next crucial item in your pre-opener checklist is to drill down the details surrounding your hunting location and set-up. This item will vary in complexity depending on the specifics of your hunt - heading out to your property's cushy box-blind is a far cry from trekking half a mile into public land with a climbing stand strapped to your back. The two main considerations for this step are (1) securing access rights and (2) your safety in the stand . Access rights obviously aren't as a significant of a factor if you are hunting your own land or a friend's private land, but you should be familiar with the boundaries of the property that you are hunting. If the deer that you're tracking wanders onto another's private land, then you will need to obtain that land owner's permission before continuing to track your deer . For safety, certain hunting setups will require additional equipment. If you are planning on sitting on a bucket on top of a ridge, congratulations - you are all set. If you are planning on hunting from a ladder, climber, or any other elevated setup, then we strongly advise you to purchase a harness for your safety in the stand. The vast majority of hunting accidents requiring an emergency room visit result from falling from tree stands. Also, never carry a loaded firearm with you while entering an elevated stand. There are plenty of cheap market " tow ropes " for your firearm that you should carry with you into the field, attach one end to your firearm's sling and the other to either your harness or stand, and then tow your unloaded firearm up to your location once you are safely in your elevated hunting setup. If you plan on hunting public land, be sure to check out the DNR's "MI-HUNT" interactive map to identify public lands that are open to hunting. We also recommend scouting public land prior to entering the woods on Opening Day, but this is more of a strong suggestion than a necessity. As always, be extremely courteous to and mindful of other hunters as you enter and exit public land - try to limit your movement to outside of peak hunting hours (roughly 7AM - 10AM and 2PM - 6PM). 4. SIGHT IN YOUR FIREARM After poaching, the next worse sin that any ethical hunter could commit is venturing out into the woods with an inaccurate firearm. Beyond the eternal regret of missing a trophy buck that generously provides a perfect broad-side shot in the your shooting lane, maiming a deer with a poorly-placed shot will guarantee that (1) you do not recover the animal and (2) the deer will suffer immensely and unnecessarily before expiring. Simply put, we owe it to the animals that we hunt to deliver quick, well-placed, and ethical shots. Fortunately, the cost of zeroing-in your firearm usually only requires a handful of rounds at a gun range - typically no more than 30 minutes to an hour of your time. If you don't already have a go-to gun range, the DNR maintains several throughout the Detroit region (the range at Island Lake Recreation Area is my favorite outdoor range). Shooting until you have a consistent and accurate shot-placement grouping from 100 yards is the recommended distance. As noted prior, we are still in the "quiet period" as of the publication of this article. During this time, it is cannot carry afield or transport any rifle (including rimfire) or shotgun if you have buckshot, slug, ball loads or cut shells. Here are the two exceptions to the "quiet period" regulations: • You can transport a firearm to your deer camp or to a target range during this period if the firearm is properly transported. • You can target shoot on your own property provided there is no attempt to take game. 5. PREPARE TO BE PRESENT In Season 9 of Netflix's hit show " MeatEater ," host (and fellow Michigander) Steven Rinella asks legendary Alaskan wilderness guide Buck Bowden a simple question: " What makes a good hunter in your mind? " Buck's response made an impression on me that I have since packed into every hunt: " One that has a positive attitude every day, that when he's out there hunting, he's happy and just having a great time. Not stressed out thinking, 'I've gotta have this animal' or 'When's it gonna happen? '" That response resonated strongly with me, largely because I had sabotaged several hunts in my early hunting years through unmet expectations. Hunters young and old love to tell stories of the glory days; the moments when a 12-point buck came storming out at first light, providing an idyllic shot with hardly any blood-trailing. Hunters often skirt by the misses, lost deer, or unfathomable number of hours spent in a deer stand with hardly a squirrel-sighting to show for it. Social media feeds showcasing only once-in-a-lifetime deer with every scroll have only poured gasoline on the fire of clinically unmet expectations. And for me, as a young hunter, I left the woods several times frustrated, angry, and cursing the day that my interest in hunting first spawned. The God's honest truth is that deer hunting is largely a sport of failure. Any honest, seasoned hunter will absolutely stand by this statement. In the Midwest, the average rate of hunter success for harvesting a single deer is ~40%. In Michigan , that figure is fortunately closer to 50%. Still, 50% odds are less than ideal for most recreational pursuits. But here's the thing - that's what makes hunting beautiful . The hours, days, and sometimes seasons spent without any clear sign of success will only amplify that eventual rewarding, ethical harvest. Just as Buck clearly pointed out, the harvest should only provide the icing on the cake of a complete and rewarding hunting experience . As you prepare to head into the woods tomorrow morning, please don't forget to focus on the bountiful harvest of mental health benefits that you should also pursue while in the stand - none of which involve the taking of wild game: Being completely present in the moment. Finding solitude in the woods. Ample time to tune out the constant noise of modern life . Wildlife viewing and explorative land scouting. Breathing in fresh, crisp air. Engaging in outdoor exercise . Camaraderie with family and friends. Gratitude for every facet of the experience. If you were to apply those descriptors to any other outdoor recreation activity, no one would doubt the success of your outing. Hunting shouldn't be any different, regardless of whether you're able to fire a shot. Focusing on these aspects of the hunt will also inherently calm your spirit and nerves - trust me, you will be immensely thankful for this once that elusive deer finally wanders your way. Photo courtesy of the Ice Age Trail Alliance What About Non-Hunters? In light of the arrival of firearm hunting season, here are seven Expedition Detroit  tips for avoiding hiker-hunter conflicts across our region's most beloved outdoor destinations: 1. REVIEW LOCAL REGULATIONS.   Regardless of whether you're hiking or hunting, do your homework before hitting the trail on whether hunting is permitted along your route. As a general guideline, Michigan's "State Recreation Areas" permit hunting unless stated otherwise; conversely, Michigan's "State Parks" prohibit hunting unless stated otherwise . 2. WEAR BRIGHT ORANGE.   While " hunter orange " is required for hunters during certain firearm seasons, we strongly  advise both hunters and hikers to wear at least one article of orange clothing on public land trails between September 15th and January 31st ("Hunting Season"). Aside from regulatory requirements, wearing orange promotes both safety and awareness along our shared trails. 3. MIND YOUR PETS.    This one goes out directly to hikers along hunting-permitted trails that enjoy trekking with your four-legged best friend. Hikers should keep their dogs on-leash throughout Hunting Season. Dogs should also be outfitted with blaze orange attire (leashes or vests) . 4. LEAVE ANY AGENDA AT THE TRAILHEAD.   While we all have our own particular ethics, morals, politics, or other heartfelt leanings, the only  mindset that each of us should be packing into the woods is a spirit of enjoyment, rejuvenation, exploration, and lawful recreation . Hunters, this means recognizing the responsibility that accommodates the joy of ethical hunting . Hikers, this means recognizing that hunters have the right to lawfully pursue their chosen recreational activity. Both groups should remember that both poaching  and hunter harassment  are actionable offenses under Michigan state law . If you suspect that the actions of either a hiker or hunter have violated Michigan state law, DO NOT  ESCALATE  the situation by attempting to confront the suspected person. Instead, contact the DNR's law enforcement's communications center via 800-292-7800 .           5. MIND THE TRAIL.   Trail awareness for both hikers and hunters is very, very important during Hunting Season. For hikers, the ask is quite direct: STAY ON TRAIL . Other than aligning with " Leave No Trace " best practices, keeping to the trail will minimize your likelihood of interacting with hunters in the field. For hunters, we advise that you setup at least 100-150 yards from any maintained trails . Beyond minimizing the likelihood of interacting with other hunters and trail users during your hunt, this is also a best practice for safety during especially firearm season. 6. MAXIMIZE YOUR RECREATION WINDOWS.   Popular hiking and hunting windows do not inherently need to overlap during Hunting Season. Although hunters can technically head into the woods at any time with daylight, the " peak hunting hours " are typically 3 hours after sunrise and 3 hours before sunset (i.e., complete darkness). The hunting windows do fluctuate with changes in daylight, although planning to recreate as close to mid-day as possible would be a non-hunter's best bet for diminishing the likelihood of seeing a hunter along the trail. Also, don't forget about headlamp hiking  and the perks of nighttime recreation , which by law are 100% void of any hunters. 7. SMILE.   This might be the single most important - and simplest - item on this list. In fact, this point was brought up during the 2023 Michigan Outdoor Summit  as a key action step towards making Michigan's outdoors a more welcoming, sustainable, and economically viable space. If you see someone on the trail that looks different than you, is engaging in a different recreational activity than you, or appears either intimidated or disgruntled by you - just smile at them . Let's go even further and say "Hi!" to them. Beyond humanizing your shared experience and introducing a second or two of kindness into their day, this simple act is the best way to prevent any sort of contentious situation from arising. Plus, smiling requires less effort than frowning.   This article is not intended to be a complete checklist of every article of clothing or piece of gear that you should acquire prior to your Opening Day morning sit. Warm clothing (don't forget insulated boots and thick socks), a sharp hunting knife, and other common hunting gear are obvious prerequisites for any hunt. You should also make sure that you are familiar with how to properly field dress a deer - especially if you will be hunting with only novice hunters. The Expedition Detroit team wishes you nothing but success, good times, and safe hunts as you venture into the woods on Opening Day. Please feel free to leave any comments below regarding other helpful firearm tips that hunters new and old would appreciate reading. We can't wait to see you out there!

The leaves and temperatures may be rapidly dropping, but the Detroit region's outdoor events calendar will stay vibrant throughout November. Here is the Expedition Detroit rundown of the top ten outdoor events near Detroit that we're STOKED about experiencing. Happy Turkey Month, Detroit! You heard it here first: November is the most underrated month for outdoor recreation throughout the ENTIRE year . While some may be tempted to view this month as a " shoulder season " - the transitory guide from the peak autumn colors of October to the fresh snowfall of December  - we are immensely excited about the outdoor action that you can only experience during November, especially  when it comes to these 10 premiere outdoor events. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we would like to publish that we're extremely thankful  for the hosts and vendors that brave the cooling temperatures to stage these end-of-season events. We invite you to share in our gratitude by joining in with one, two, or all of these top 10 outdoor events near Detroit for November! 1. Run with the Dead for Día de los Muertos November 1st | Southwest Detroit | 7 a.m. Brace yourself - an action-packed November begins TOMORROW , November 1st! The festivities begin with Detroit's predominantly Latino community that will continue to honor and celebrate the dear-departed well into the first week of November. Día de los Muertos - " Day of the Dead " in Spanish - is one of the most widely-celebrated cultural holidays across the United States, especially among Southwest Detroit's residents of Mexican heritage. As part of the festive celebrations, the Southwest Detroit Business Association is hosting its annual " Run of the Dead " 5K/10K race and fundraiser for the Center of Music & Performing Arts Southwest . Don't forget to pack in family photos of your ancestors to add to the festival's ofrenda . 2. Burn Through the Trails at the Bonfyre Trail Fest November 8th | Waterloo State Recreation Area | 10 a.m. In early November, the trails on the western rim of the Detroit region are set ablaze with excitement during the annual Bonfyre Trail Fest ! Bonfyre represents the last event of RF Event's fantastic " GOAT Trail Series " for the 2025 season, and will include 5, 10, and 18-mile trail races. The perks of this trail runner's dream event go far beyond the post-race beer garden, live music, and roaring bonfires - you'll be running the famous, roller-coaster DTE Energy Foundation Trails at Waterloo State Recreation Area. EXPLORE WATERLOO STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 3. Hunt for Hoots on an Owl Hike Throughout November | Lake Erie and Oakwoods Metroparks | 6 p.m. With the days getting shorter, there's no better time to experience one of the Detroit region's most elusive residents - our local owls! Fortunately for all of us, our friends at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks are experts concerning all matters nocturnal birds of prey. Visit Lake Erie Metropark for a guided "Owl Prowl" hike on November 7th and 21, as well as Oakwoods Metropark for its " Evening Owl Prowls " occurring throughout the month. Both events include 2 hour, entirely outdoor programs aimed at learning about - and experiencing - Eastern Screech Owls and other resident owls in their natural habitats. Pre-registration is required by 4 p.m. the day before the program. Photo courtesy of Kona Running Company. 4. Run for the Fudge of It at the Kona Chocolate Run November 9th   | Belle Isle State Park    | 9 a.m.   One of Kona Running Company's  slogans is "Run for the Fun of It." Well, for this uniquely-chocolate themed final race of their 2025 season, Kona invites runners of all skillsets to run for the fudge  of it during its annual Kona Chocolate Run  event! Ready for more?   The Kona Chocolate Run has COMPLETELY revamped what was already a fan-favorite race for its 2025 rendition!  This year includes a new location at stunning Belle Isle State Park  in Detroit, as well as 5K, 10K, and a new 15K events. Fortunately, crossing the finish line still provides runners with the rewards they crave: the l egendary Chocolate Buffet , including multiple stations filled with steaming hot cocoa, cakes and muffins, ice cream, chocolate-dipped treats, creamy chocolate milk, candies, and the famous chocolate bar carving station. Come for the course. Stay for the chocolate. 5. Get in the Woods for Whitetail Deer Firearm Opening Day November 15th | Statewide in Michigan Waking up on November 15th in Michigan is always an interesting experience.  No, you're not hearing a delayed Fourth of July party or a Civil War reenactment kicking off at 7:30 a.m. on a Wednesday. You are in fact witnessing the "official-unofficial Michigan state holiday" - the opening day of whitetail deer firearm season . The most celebrated day of the year for hunters and the single most important day of the year for the Michigan DNR's conservation efforts . A festive experience that we at Expedition Detroit encourage all of our readers to participate in, even if that's just by purchasing a tag  to financially support the DNR's operations and protection of our precious natural resources. Planning on heading into the woods this year? Please take a minute or two to review our " Opening Day Checklist " article prior to the 15th. For any non-hunters that plan on venturing into the woods on the 15th, please wear blaze orange  outer clothing  - especially  if you plan on trekking through the woods around sunrise or sunset hours. Even if hunting is not permitted along your typical hiking route, the gun opener has a unique ability to draw out hunters of varying degrees of experience and ethics . Be safe, be seen . GEAR UP FOR DEER SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 6. Celebrate National Hiking Day Exploring your Local Trails November 17th   | Throughout Detroit Region Did we need the prompt of a national holiday to celebrate hiking? No, of course not. Are we stoked that one exists and will therefore celebrate excessively? Yes, of course we will. In honor of the wealth of hiking opportunities  that we have in our region, we at Expedition Detroit  plan on hosting several guided hikes throughout the Detroit region on National Hiking Day. We are offering an exclusive discount code  - HIKEFORALL - for ALL GUIDED TRIPS  during the week of November 17th through 23rd ! REMEMBER : Please wear blaze orange  on your National Hiking Day adventures since the holiday comes during the middle of the regular firearm season  in Michigan). CELEBRATE NATIONAL HIKING DAY ON A GUIDED HIKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 7. Express your Gratitude for our State Lands by Giving Back Throughout November   |  Various Michigan State Recreation Areas If you're reading this article, then we'd be willing to bet that you've enjoyed our Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas thoroughly during " peak season " this year.  In fact, you're probably still enjoying our trails that are decorated with brilliant foliage  - and we hope that you'll join us in continuing to explore them well into the winter months . Our collective ability to enjoy year-round access to Southeast Michigan's pristine trails relies heavily on the work of a small group of individuals. Shockingly small. This Thanksgiving season, let's express our immense gratitude for their tireless efforts by volunteering at a DNR-led "Volunteer Stewardship Workday" event.  The DNR will be hosting 5 across the Detroit region this November: Pinckney Recreation Area  (November 2nd, 23rd, and 30th), Bald Mountain Recreation Area  (November 8th), and Waterloo Recreation Area (November 29th). Work crew activities will focus on piling brush, stacking firewood, cutting invasive shrubs, and restoring wetlands. Rainboots or other waterproof boots are recommended for these events, and preregistration is required. Photo courtesy of The Parade Company. 8. Embrace being "That Relative" and Run a Turkey Trot November 27th - 28th | Various Locations Restful holiday sleep be damned, you have a race to run! Seriously though, we wholly-endorse ignoring the social media memes, setting your alarm, and getting up early to run a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot before the holiday traditions literally and figuratively consume the rest of your day. The Detroit Parade Company's annual Turkey Trot is undoubtedly the hallmark race of the holiday, although Running Fit's Ann Arbor Turkey Trot is also a very popular event. There's an option for avid trail runners as well - Move-It Fitness will be hosting both its "Turkey TRAIL Trot" AND "Leftovers" races at Stony Creek Metropark, which include half-marathon, 10K, 4-mile, and 2-mile trail races for participants. 9. Skip the Mall for a Black Friday Outdoors November 28th | Rolling Hills Park and Proud Lake State Recreation Area   Stick it to the consumerist machine! Or don't, we really don't judge here at Expedition Detroit. However, if you do decide to follow the outdoor industry's lead to #OptOutside, then do we have the perfect events for you! Mountain Bikers : The Potowatomi Mountain Biking Association is leading its annual " Black Friday Ride " at 10 a.m. across Rolling Hills , covering a total of 15 miles of single track and gravel riding. Launching from the Rolling Hills Lodge, the ride will cover about 7 miles at Rolling Hills. Post-ride pizza and refreshments will be waiting for you back at the Rolling Hills Lodge. Trail Runners : Yes, the late-season races keep coming! Trivium Racing will continue its annual Thanksgiving weekend racing tradition, the Black Toenail Friday Half Marathon and 7.5 Miler trail race at 11 a.m.. The pristine trails of Proud Lake State Recreation Area will host the event - honestly, that alone provides a great reason to register. We're also thankful for the perfect excuse for going for that second (ok, third ) plate during Thanksgiving dinner! Milford Gobbler Gallop; photo courtesy of Running Venture 10. Run in the Milford Gobbler Gallop November 29th   | Milford, Michigan    | 8 a.m. Let's be honest  - even the most hardened runners enjoy some well-earned rest & relaxation sometimes, especially when it comes to holidays. That being said, missing out on a tradition like a Thanksgiving weekend run also doesn't sit well with holiday-orientated outdoor enthusiasts. If only it were possible to sleep in on Thanksgiving Day, watch the Lions , enjoy your Thanksgiving meals, and THEN burn off the calories with a festive run. Call it a Thanksgiving miracle: our friends at Running Venture  have crafted this EXACT holiday scenario for us all to experience!  With Thanksgiving and Black Friday in the rearview mirror, head over to Downtown Milford  on Saturday, November 25th, to run in RV's " Gobbler Gallop " race series. This year's series includes 1 mile, 4 mile, AND double event opportunities that wind out through downtown Milford, onto the beautiful Milford Trail, and finish back on Main Street.  All event registrations include race swag like a custom race shirt, medal, and refreshments. We'll see you at the starting line! Happy November to you all - we can’t wait to see you out there! This article contains sponsored content for which Expedition Detroit  has received compensation. Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? Awesome - we would love to hear from you! Please contact us  at info@expeditiondetroit.com    or (734) 821-6416 to discuss Expedition Detroit  feature opportunities.

With legs still aching and post-race euphoria still beaming, Expedition Detroit's Founder shares his "point-of-view" experience running his first marathon at the "Best Marathon in America": the Detroit Free Press Marathon . " Yeah. Let's do this. " More than 26,000 aspiring runners had signed up for the weekend's main events, but for a few brief moments, only one runner approached the soaked starting line. With the early morning rain and wind pelting the eager group of runners waiting in Corral "D," this particular runner suddenly remembered this his bib had the letter "B" on it. The runners with "Cs" were just finishing their send off, strutting off into the storm. Roughly 50 yards of dark, wet, and empty Fort Street remained between this runner and the initiation of a dream that had captivated his athletic goals for 20+ years - and thwarted them for over a decade. He dipped under the Corral "D" rope, deeply breathing in the crisp, monsoon air. Each step slowly and carefully placed, resisting the inevitable adrenaline rush of starting a race. Especially this race. THE race. Finally the steps ran out. In ritualistic fashion, the runner raised his left wrist, pressed a button that signaled an all-too-familiar chime from his Garmin watch , and a timer commenced. At 7:15AM on October 19th, yours truly started running the 2025 Detroit Free Press Marathon - voted by USA Today as the "Best Marathon in America." This marathon was not only my first 26.2 mile venture, but also represented the culmination of decades of dreaming, planning, injuries, successes, and a library's worth of life lessons. My quads are still burning as I write these words, so the memories of the experience are as fresh as the leftover finish line bananas. If running a marathon remains unchecked on your bucket list, then this article is for you. If your goals have been chronically undercut by injuries or the unexpected twists and turns of life, then this article is especially for you. Without further delay, here is a first time marathoner's POV account of running the " Best Marathon in America ": the Detroit Free Press Marathon. Vice President Al Gore with his daughters at the 1997 Marine Corps Marathon The Journey to the Starting Line | October 1997 - 2025 There are near-infinite ways to train for a marathon, but one constant is that the race begins long, long before the starting line. Something, at some point, sparked the interest. No one has ever just woke up one day and blurted out " You know what, I want to pay to subject myself to a 26.2 mile death march! Yeah!! " No, there's always a specific moment where the dopamine of inspiration first hit. Mine occurred shortly after October 26th, 1997. The first thing that I remember is the texture of the red and yellow ribbon. " Check this out, Daniel ," Jerry Leachman , a life-long mentor and one of my best friend's dad, said to me as he extended a military dog tag-shaped medal towards me. " I just ran the Marine Corps Marathon. How cool is this? " The medal itself was indeed very cool, but the true reason of why that memory remains intact 28 years later is that it was the first time that I ever heard the word " marathon ." Or at least heard it in a way that registered something personal, tangible, and aspirational. That's owed a lot to the man who was holding the medal. Jerry was, and continues to be, one of my personal heroes. As a kid, I looked up to Jerry as an outdoorsman, athlete, and a man of great faith and personal conviction. The Leachman home was decorated in memorabilia from his years playing football at the University of Alabama under legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, trips all over the world, photos with U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries, and other accolades that captivated my young mind. Put differently, if someone with Jerry's caliber of character and experience was excited about running a marathon, then I wanted - no, needed - to do the same. At the starting line of the 2015 Novi Half Marathon That childhood dream laid dormant for 13 years, mostly due to prioritizing team sports like soccer, hockey, football, and lacrosse over running. Even during those years, however, there were inklings of interest in endurance sports. When my family first moved to Michigan in 2007, my older brother and I completed all of a week of cross-country running before quitting. He always had a sprinter's build and hated anything beyond a 5K. I hated the thought of running long miles through an unfamiliar community by myself, but I started to love the feeling of accomplishment of completing lengthy runs literally the day before we quit. Fast forward to May of 2015, I completed my first half marathon - the Novi Half Marathon - with a P.R. that still holds up and two shins riddled with micro-fractures. I swore off distance running after that event due to the pain of committing every training faux pas imaginable. More so than my legs, my mind needed 2 years to recover from the trauma of those mistakes before running - and falling in love with - the 2017 Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon . The journey from the 2017 Freep Marathon to this year's rendition alone provided a rollercoaster of running successes and failures. The high points included falling in love with competitive trail running and regularly winning age group awards in the 10K "sprint" and half marathon events. The low points all consisted of injuries and significant life turns that resulted in chronically-deferred full marathon entries - 3 to be exact. Here's a short list of the contributing factors that lead to missed marathons: Shin splints and corresponding micro-fractures Stress of law school and studying for the Michigan Bar Exam Extensor tendonitis Adjusting to new employment positions Starting a new business ( this one ) Navigating an unexpected divorce Training for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro Iliotibial ("IT") band syndrome FINALLY, in 2025, the well of limiting factors ran dry. With my 2024 deferred registration in place, I spent this year revitalizing my IT band issues , cross-training, and prioritizing the marathon as THE top priority for my training. In other words, every other athletic pursuit needed to serve the all-consuming purpose of marathon training. Distractions or detractions were strictly off limits. Marathon or bust. No more excuses. My point in providing this quarter century overview is to illustrate that every marathoner has a story. One does not simply arrive at the starting line; beyond the months of training, cultivating the ability to run 26.2 miles starts with inspiration and endures through all of the hurdles that life can manage to throw at you. That's why you'll see so many runners crying at the finish line. The race means so much more than any of us realize. Let's get to the race now. The Wam-Up Phase   |   Miles 1 - 3 Energy Level: Nervous anticipation Pacing Strategy: 10 minute/mile pace Actual Pace: 10:30 minute/mile pace With a decade+ of running experience behind me - and a dialed-in pre-race routine executed - all that was left to do was to start the race. The night before I had housed down enough chicken pad thai to feed a small village and managed to get ~6 hours of pre-race sleep. I leapt out of bed at 4:30 a.m. sharp to have a cup of tea, take a 5 minute cold plunge, eat a power breakfast of toast, peanut better, honey, banana, and chia seeds, and gulp down a small cup of coffee to "get the system moving" ( critical step of the pre-race routine ). I was on the road at 5:30 on the dot to get downtown with ample time. Parking was a madhouse, hence my arrival to the starting line with Corral "D" vs. my designated "B." Once positioned front and center in Corral D, fully-engulfed by both the rain and crowd, I glanced at my watch. The time read 7:14 a.m. I knew that my girlfriend and two friends would be arriving to the festivities in a few hours, braving the inclement weather for a few hours only to see me pass by in a matter of seconds. I was suddenly hit with the sentiment that every second spent standing there, waiting to start, was a second more that they would have to endure the poor conditions. " Screw that ,"I thought to myself. I ducked under the rope and started the steady march to the starting line. With the watch activated and the legs moving, I was off with thousands of my closest friends into the darkness of the early, eery morning. Most of the runners appeared visibly bothered by the rain and wind. Not I - I found the inhospitable conditions invigorating . The perfect recipe for pushing your body and mind well outside of its comfort zone . My game plan was to spend the first few miles "warming up," which for me meant a ~10 minute per mile pace. I intentionally shortened my stride and focused on not giving in to the cardinal sin of going too fast, too early. Mile 1 down Fort Street came in at a 10:12 pace, spent largely trying to avoid the massive puddles of rainwater pooling in the street. " Perfect ," I audibly said as the pace came through my headphones. Mile 2 hit towards the end of crossing the Ambassador Bridge, which is THE definitive highlight of the whole marathon experience. I kept my legs moving and mind focused while crossing the bridge, but you couldn't help but smile watching everyone's faces light up at how damn cool of an experience running across the bridge is. From the views to the fact that you're actively running into a new country, there's an innate rush to running over the Ambassador Bridge that makes it a bucket list-worthy experience. By the end of Mile 3, I was averaging a 10:30 minute pace. Notably more conservative than my initial game plan, so I hoped it would pay off in a few hours. In the meantime, I figured that the slower miles meant that I could feed the adrenaline rush that I had been ignoring for the past 30 minutes. Finally. And just in time for the roaring Windsor crowds. The Highlight Reel Phase   |   Miles 4 - 11 Energy Level: Unbridled enthusiasm Pacing Strategy: 9:30 minute/mile pace Actual Pace:  9:28 minute/mile pace If a runner tries to tell you that they weren't smiling the entirety of Windsor's Riverside Drive, then you've just outed a stone cold liar. Miles 4 through 6 occur entirely in Canada, and we whole-heartedly believe that those 3 miles are some of the most memorable of the entire experience. From the uniquely-Canadian signs, festive costumes, and unbeatable views of Downtown Detroit, running into Windsor provides enough of a reason to register for the full or international half marathon. But wait, there's more. Mile 7 starts the world's only "underwater mile" while running through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. While this experience tends to be more divisive on its enjoyability vs. the unanimous pleasure of crossing the Ambassador Bridge, the close proximity during the tunnel does provide a mile of solidarity where the course is only experienced by runners. I can't think of another world-class marathon that has such a moment of singularity shared only among your fellow participants. Emerging from the depths of the tunnel, you're met with an explosion of life along Jefferson Avenue, which continues until Mile 10 along Woodward Avenue. The area surrounding the exit of the tunnel is especially inundated with cheering fans, which for a runner provides an unmistakable sensation of immortality. Seriously. Running through thousands of cheering "fans" elicits an unmatched rush of endorphins. I was smiling ear-to-ear - and dropping my pace to a more familiar 9:06 minute - through Mile 11 in Midtown. Into the Unknown Phase   |   Miles 12 - 17 Energy Level: Full faith in the training regimen Pacing Strategy: 9:15 minute/mile pace Actual Pace:  8:55 minute/mile pace Two years ago, I ran the Detroit International Half Marathon for the 3rd time. For the aforementioned reasons, that is a race that I could run every year, for the rest of my life, and never tire of it. Over 80% of the race is simply a highlight reel of the very best of the international Detroit region's trails, sights, and community - and the last 20% is a downtown push to the finish line. A perfect course. But, when I hit the turnaround point just before Mile 11 of that race - where the marathoners keep left and the half marathoners deviate to the right - something felt wrong . Like I was shying away from the real challenge. Avoiding the inevitable. Taking the easy route. Let me be clear: nothing about a half marathon is easy. As you know, training for my first one literally broke my legs. But after running several halfs over nearly a decade - and in the midst of revving up an outdoor company focused on highlighting the Detroit region's world-class events - bowing out of the full just didn't sit well with my soul. " Alright Dan, " I promised to myself once the marathoners were out of sight, " the next time that you run this race, you're running ALL of it. " Well, two years later, here I was - cashing in on that promise. Running deeper into the unknown of the course, despite my familiarity with the city. Trusting blindly in my training regimen, remaining calories, and ability to handle adversity. According to my Strava data, this segment of the race through Midtown and Eastern Market was the pinnacle of my race. Being a proud Wayne State University Law School alum, running along the south side of campus on Warren Avenue was special, as well as cruising past my old stomping grounds on Cass. The crowds remained vibrant and energetic through Eastern Market too, which kept my spirits strong as I passed the 16 Mile marker. Every step beyond Mile 16 meant setting a new record for the longest run of my life. Venturing farther and farther into unknown territory, both with regard to the course and what my body was capable of. At ~Mile 17.5, the Dequindre Cut came into view. This was an encouraging sight, seeing as I had run the "Flapjack 5K" back in February along the Cut and remembered its gradual decline towards the Detroit River. " Final lap, " I thought as the Mile 18 marker came into view towards the beginning of the Dequindre Cut. " Let's crush this. " Spoiler alert: I did not crush it. I was about to battle the pain cave. The Pain Cave Phase   |   Miles 18 - 25 Energy Level: Ignoring the pain at all costs Pacing Strategy: 9:15 minute/mile pace (or faster if possible) Actual Pace:  9:56 minute/mile pace Right at Mile 18, something flipped for me. I didn't "hit the wall," as so many marathon blogs warn eerily about. " Hitting the wall " is the moment when your body simply runs out of external energy (e.g., energy produced via carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) and switches to other internal fuel sources like fats and proteins. I know that I didn't hit the wall here because I have hit the wall in past races, including during my age group-winning debut at the 2025 North Country Trail Half Marathon. Right at Mile 11 in that race, I felt everything run empty. Just placing one foot in front of the other constituted a monumental feat of endurance. But then - just in the nick of time to secure the win - my internal energy sources kicked in to close out the race. Thanks to the mountain of Thai food, power breakfast, and paced use of energy gels during the race, I fortunately avoided a repeat of that experience during the marathon. However, there's not a nutrition plan that can help avoid the pain of your first marathon. Especially when you're miles and miles past your record-setting longest long run. The direct wind coming off of the Detroit River and onto the Dequindre Cut didn't help either. In fact, it nearly nullified the benefit of the Cut's consistent downhill slope. It was a welcomed relief when a steady uphill just before Mile 19 led us up and out of the Cut. Or so I thought. In a sadistic twist of course planning, staring DIRECTLY at you as you emerge from the Dequindre Cut is the marker for Mile 25 - the final mile - and the elite marathoners sprinting right past it. In that moment, you're standing so close to the finish line... but you still have over 7 miles to go. In the opposite direction. This, dear friends, was the moment that I entered the "Pain Cave," both physically and mentally. From Mile 19 on, everything waist-down started to hurt. My IT band issues flared up every half mile or so. The toes in my right foot felt broken. My left shin started to ache. Put differently, mementos from every running injury that my legs had endured over the last decade resurrected at the worst possible time. I was far from being the only "cave dweller" in this segment. Left and right, as we marched through gorgeous Indian Village, runners were starting to give in to their ailments. Even in my weakened state, I passed by runners who were cruising through the Windsor and Midtown segments. Everyone seemed to have arrived at the same destination of objective pain, regardless of fitness level or training regimen. The race was no longer purely physical. From especially Mile 20 on, we would all be tested on our mental resilience . Here were the mantras that got me through the Pain Cave: The Pain will Pass. I'm currently reading The Rise of the Ultra Runners by Adharanand Finn, which details several world-class ultra marathons and the super-humans that complete them. One key takeaway from the book is that pain, as opposed to serious injury, represents an inevitable variable in any long distance race. The key is to not fixate on it or try to fight it. Instead, embrace the pain with the knowledge that (i) it is indicative of the difficult task you're pursuing and (ii) it will pass. The Way is Through . This mantra is one that I've utilized countless times over the last four years, most notably during the summit push for Mt. Kilimanjaro and while buried in endless hours of legal work. While those two examples may seem worlds apart, mentally they are exactly on par with each other. In practice, this mantra means that there's no amount of complaining or miraculous rescue plan that will get you to your final destination. There's only one way to get to the freedoms and enjoyment of the other side - by moving through the experience . Focus on the Why . At Mile 22, runners seemed to be dropping off their target paces like flies. Walking. Sitting. Stretching. No longer running the marathon, but surviving the experience. For me, as early as 1997, I've wanted to be able to say with a clear conscience that I ran a marathon. Not walked or power hiked one. Ran one. And, on the other side of this seemingly endless course, with continued effort, I will be able to say that for the rest of my life. Those 3 mantras reverberated through my soul as the prodigal Mile 25 sign FINALLY came back into sight. Just 1.2 miles to go. The pain will pass. The way is through. Keep focusing on why you're here. The Marathoner Phase   |   Mile 26 Energy Level: Inexplicable gratitude Pacing Strategy: Empty the tank Actual Pace:  Who cares The rain had fully kicked back in towards the end of Mile 25, right as I approached a large overpass with a notable crowd strategically cheering under it. " I bet that's where they are ," I said to myself through heavy breaths. Sure enough, once my energy-depleted vision managed to zero-in on the crowd, I spotted my friend Ryan holding a massive " DAN " sign in bright blue paint. Next to him was his fianceé Sam, holding a " CHAFE YOUR DREAMS " sign in purple. And, last but certainly not least, my girlfriend Emily was proudly holding a sign that I'm prohibited from describing here ( prompted a massive Mile 26 smile though ). I deviated towards them, gave her probably the saltiest kiss of her life, and without breaking pace kept pushing towards the elusive finish line. Finally, I turned north towards Campus Martius on Woodward, and there it was. The finish line. The final destination for nearly three decades' worth of dreams, and a decade's amount of training. Most importantly, the point where I can stop running. " Thank you...thank you ." Those were the only words, equally in prayer and a recognition of relief, that I could conjure as I emptied the energy tank. And then, in a moment blurred by the full spectrum of emotion, I crossed the finish line. The race ended. My legs stopped running. My mind could finally rest. For the rest of my life, I can proudly state that I ran the "Best Marathon in America": the Detroit Free Press Marathon. If you also dream of sharing that designation, then I sincerely hope that this article helps to move you forward in that journey. Plus, you can always count on Team Expedition Detroit to provide you with the content, inspiration, and insights into making your outdoor dreams a reality. We'll see you at the starting line.