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It's Shroom Season, Detroit! Now that Michigan's favorite seasonal delicacy is just starting to rise from its annual hibernation, here are Expedition Detroit's best identification tips and local destinations for hunting morel mushrooms near Detroit. "April near the D" draws two very specific, and different, "hunters" to the Detroit region's woods each spring. One is decked head to toe in camo, chasing after distant gobbles during the opening weeks of Michigan's spring turkey season. The other - and arguably, the more passionate cohort - needs only sharp eyes, a bag, and a healthy dose of foraging knowledge. This article is intended to induct you, aspiring morel mushroom hunter, into one of Michigan's favorite spring past times. As you continue your seasonal hikes through Metro Detroit's beloved trails, you'll be armed with skillset for bagging the bounty of one of nature's most prized delicacy. One which requires minimal preparation for a fantastic, organic meal. Welcome to "Shroom Season," Detroit! Here's our guide to hunting morel mushrooms near Detroit, including best practices on how to locate and identify morels and where to hunt them. Morel Mushroom Hunting 101: Field Identification Tips On Expedition Detroit guided hikes, we typically receive a question or two about in-season foraging. Whether the questions concerns identifying and harvesting berries or other edible plants, both our guides and guests alike love spotting and tasting the fruits of the trail as an extra perk of the hike. For most foraged plants and berries, identification is relatively easy - and therefore low risk. When it comes to mushrooms, however, our rule of thumb is that unless you are 100% certain that a particular mushroom is safe to eat, then do not consume it. Unlike other misidentified plants, consuming the wrong mushroom will upset your stomach at best - and could fatal organ failure at worst. Some poisonous mushrooms are even referred to as the "Angel of Death" due to their potency, and unfortunately the poisonous ones often mimic their delicious counterparts in appearance. We at Expedition Detroit are big fans of not dying on the trail. Or dying in general, but especially in preventable circumstances like correctly identifying edible morels vs. the infamous "false morels." Let's potentially save some lives and serve up delicious meals with correct identification now. EDIBLE MOREL #1: White Morel (morchella americana) The most common morel, often called the white or gray morel. Its color varies from light cream to gray to yellowish-brown depending on habitat and age. The hollow cap is attached to the stalk at base. The common morel is perhaps the easiest of all edible spring mushrooms to recognize, and is therefore widely collected. The white morel fruits in the latter half of May. It is found in a wide variety of habitats, primarily under hardwoods, including old orchards, beech-maple forests, oak woods, burned-over meadows and occasionally lawns. Occasionally found associated with conifers, especially white pine. EDIBLE MOREL #2: Black Morel (morchella angusticeps) The popular black morel, or eastern black morel. Its color varies from gray in young specimens to almost black in older ones. Its hollow cap is attached to the stalk at the lower edge and can be up to seven inches tall. Black morels are usually the first true morels to appear in spring, fruiting in early to mid-May under ash, aspen, cherry and occasionally under pines. The crop often peaks when serviceberry bushes are in full bloom. EDIBLE MOREL #3: Half-Free Morel (morchella punctipes) Commonly called the "half-free" morel because the cap is detached from the stalk about halfway down, resembling a skirt. It is similar in color and general appearance to the white morel but is usually smaller. The half-free morel fruits abundantly about one year in three on moist humus in oak-hickory and beech-maple forests. CAUTION: Do not mistake this edible species for "verpa" species of false morels, whose caps are totally free-hanging. EDIBLE MOREL #4: Burn-Site Morel (morchella exuberans) The burn-site morel may appear in conifer forests the first year after a fire, and more rarely two years after. Its hollow caps are conical or nearly round, and on mature caps, ridges are dark brown to black in color. FALSE MORELS: Meet the Verpas The easiest way to differentiate the false morels (verpa species) from the true morels (morchella) is to check to see if the cap connects to the stalk. Free-hanging varieties should not be eaten. POISONOUS MOREL #1: Verpa Bohemica Often mistaken for the black morel, verpa bohemica appears in late April before trees and shrubs have leafed out. Caps are dark brown and hang completely free of the stalk, like a full skirt. Fruits in rich, moist soils, often along stream banks and swamp edges. POISONOUS MOREL #2: Verpa Conica Smaller than Bohemica and fruits a few days later. Caps hang free of the stalk. Often grows in forests of mixed conifers and hardwoods, under wild cherry trees and in old apple orchards. IF REALIZE THAT YOU INGESTED A VERPA MUSHROOM, the first step is to stay calm. It's not uncommon for foragers to accidentally pick a false morel, but then serendipitously properly prepare them for safe consumption through cooking them thorougholy to remove the gyromitrin neurotoxin. So there's a small chance that the false morels will pass through your system without incident. That being said, all species of false morels contain the poisonous neurotoxin gyromitrin. This affects your body’s mucus membranes and digestive system and can lead to widespread problems throughout your body, with most cases causing symptoms that resemble a bad stomach flu. Symptoms typically set in 6 - 24 hours after you’ve eaten the false morels, but you may experience symptoms sooner if you inhale the toxin when cooking. If you start developing symptoms of false morel poisoning - even if your symptoms seem mild at first - you need to contact poison control. Moderate to severe cases of false morel poisoning require you to take action as soon as possible to keep your symptoms from getting worse. Poison control can evaluate your symptoms and approximate dosage and tell you what next steps are best for your situation. The best general advice for every case of false morel poisoning is to stay as hydrated and well-nourished as possible. Michigan DNR-produced map displaying recent large burn areas in the Detroit region. ON THE HUNT: Recommended Locations for Harvesting Morel Mushrooms near Detroit Large burn sites in forested areas are ideal for morel mushroom hunting, especially in burned areas where jack, white, or red pine once grew. Grassy and other non forest areas are not as likely to produce morels. Fortunately for all of us, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources have put together a map of large burn areas that occurred within the past couple years. The marked locations include those where sizable fires (more than 10 acres) occurred the previous year. Note that morel mushrooms will only grow where there was a forested once cover type. Based on the Michigan DNR-provided data, here are Expedition Detroit's recommended locations for harvesting morel mushrooms near Detroit: 1. Highland State Recreation Area | Mt. Kanzer Trail A 21 acre prescribed burn occurred at Highland Recreation Area in 2025, as well as a subsequent burn earlier this month. Fortunately for foraging hikers, these burns occurred directly adjacent to the Mt. Kanzer Trail (also referred to as the Milford Connector Trail). As such, following the trail should provide direct access to a bounty of morel mushrooms this spring. 2. Bald Mountain State Recreation Area | Blue, White, and Orange Trails In 2025, the Michigan DNR conducted a 20 acre prescribed burn within Bald Mountain State Recreation Area's popular "North Unit," just south of West Graham Lake. This area is readily accessible for intrepid morel mushroom hunters via Bald Mountain's celebrated "Orange Trail" loop that circumnavigates this particular hotspot. 3. Sterling State Park | Western Segments of Park Last but certainly not least, Sterling State Park in Monroe County experienced a MASSIVE 113 acre prescribed burn in 2025 - leading to FANTASTIC morel mushroom prospects this spring. The burn occurred in the park's western segments, just south of the park's main access road. As you hunt for morel mushrooms near Detroit - and especially if you venture off-trail (as is typically required) - please remember to implement "Leave No Trace" principles as you forage for nature's bounty this spring. Happy mushroom hunting, Detroit - we'll see you in the woods!

Spring is in full swing at Belle Isle Park, Detroit's "Crown Jewel" of natural beauty, architectural mastery, and cultural hub! Here's Expedition Detroit's recommended itinerary for (re)discovering Michigan's most popular State Park this spring and beyond. Photo courtesy of Michael Thomas, Micdesigns Studio Can Michigan's most-visited State Park - boasting more than 5 million visitors a year - still be considered a "hidden gem" within Detroit's growing tourism sector? Yes. Absolutely. As millions of tourists plan their "peak season" visits to Metro Detroit, whether for family reunions, business conventions, Viking Cruise tours , or otherwise, Belle Isle is surprisingly not on most itineraries for shorter visits. The Henry Ford in Dearborn typically carries that title, which is understandable given our region's heavyweight status as America's birthplace of innovation. In our humble opinion, however, if you only had a half-day opportunity to experience the "vest best" of the Detroit region, then cross the MacArthur Bridge to explore Belle Isle Park. This marvel of a destination is nestled in the shimmering waters of the Detroit River between Detroit and Windsor and boasts a remarkable blend of natural beauty, architectural elegance, and deep-rooted history - all waiting to be discovered by travelers looking to immerse themselves in one of Detroit’s most iconic landscapes. Photo courtesy of Valnet Inc MEET BELLE ISLE PARK: A Highlight Reel of Detroit's Nature, Art, and Culture Where to begin with reintroducing a park as beloved, historic, complex, and iconic as Belle Isle Park... Dating back to the 1700s , Belle Isle's initial name was slightly less romantic than its current designation. The French referred to it as "Hog Island," stemming directly from the island's utilization as elaborate animal storage facility. In the following century, Hog Island's ownership evolved through bloodshed from the French to the British Crown in 1763, and subsequently from the British to the United States in 1783. It wasn't until the conclusion of the War of 1812 , however, that Belle Isle passed into private ownership for the first time. The island became the private estate of General Alexander Macomb, Jr., and remained privately owned until the City of Detroit's acquisition in 1879 . During this period of private ownership, the island forever ditched its "Hog Island" moniker in favor of "Belle Isle," a flattering nod to Miss Isa belle Cass, the daughter of Governor Lewis Cass. The name obviously stuck, especially due to the immensity of natural beauty contained within its 982 acres. Shortly after the City's acquisition, famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted - the same designer of Central Park in New York City - was hired to elevate Belle Isle into a world-class recreational destination. Starting in the 1880s, Olmsted's designs gradually transformed Belle Isle into not only the United States' largest island park, but a multi-faceted outdoor paradise fit for recreationists of every genre. More recently, Belle Isle became a Michigan State Park maintained by the Department of Natural Resources in 2013. Ten years into the Michigan DNR's 30-year lease, Belle Isle has rebounded from decades of neglect due to the $20 million of improvements that the DNR has allocated to the park. The Belle Isle of 2026 represents Michigan's most-visited state park, complete with reimagined trails, playgrounds, and amenities designed to continually welcome generations of recreationists back to its shores. Now that you've been formally introduced to Belle Isle... if you're visiting the City of Detroit for business, for a world-class event, or as a port-of-call on a cruise liner, here are Expedition Detroit's "can't miss" recommendations for a whirl-wind, one-day tour of Belle Isle Park in Detroit . DESTINATION #1: Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Trail Total Distance : 2.1 miles Elevation Gain : 22 feet Trail Rating : Easy Route Orientation : Loop(s) Parking Specifics : Parking available Ralph Wilson Gateway trailhead; Michigan Recreation Passport required for entry to Belle Isle Park WELCOME TO BELLE ISLE! Chances are that you've been sitting for a bit - unless you're one of our favorite active spirits that elected to bike to the island - so let's start your grand tour by stretching your legs on our favorite trail: the Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Trail . Even before exiting your vehicle, you will know exactly where your adventure on Belle Isle's Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon trail begins. Opened just recently in April of 2022, the Ralph Wilson Gateway - complete with its small plaza, park/trail kiosk, pergola, picnic tables, and massive " One World ... Under Michigan Stars " glass-and-steel sculpture - is as stunning a trailhead as you could ever wish for. For the next 0.3 miles, you will follow Belle Isle's southern shoreline in an eastern direction, oscillating between paved and natural trail towards the William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse . This stretch will provide your best opportunity for catching glimpses of the freighters passing by, as well as glimpses into Canada. Also keep your eyes peeled for migratory birds, especially bald eagles that frequent Belle Isle throughout the year. Your first pass of the lighthouse will arrive at the 0.5 mile marker. Erected in honor of the long-time president of the Lake Carriers Association, this ornamental lighthouse was designed in 1930 by Hungarian sculptor Geza Maroti in Detroit's prominent Art Deco style. The 58-foot-tall lighthouse was sculpted out of Georgia marble – the only such structure in North America – and generates an 8600-candlepower beacon visible for up to fifteen miles. From this vantage point, you’ll also enjoy sweeping views of the Detroit River and the Windsor waterfront—a unique international perspective that few destinations can offer. If you're lucky, you'll also get to take in views of impressive freighters gliding steadily along the Detroit River—reminders of the region’s enduring connection to maritime trade. It’s the perfect moment to pause, take photos, and soak in the beauty of the Great Lakes region. Past the lighthouse, keep heading north across the Blue Heron Lagoon bridge to breathtaking views of the lagoon, the Detroit River, Peche Island, and the great beyond of Lake St. Clair. Both Belle Isle and Peche Island are notable for several ecological, historical, and cultural reasons - not the least of which being that both islands are rumored to be haunted and/or cursed . Regardless of which supernatural overtones may or may not exist in the Detroit River's western stretches, the panoramic views from Belle Isle's easternmost point are enough to take your breath away - from awe, not from fright. As your walk continues, you’ll trace the natural contours of Belle Isle’s shoreline, eventually arriving at the tranquil waters of Blue Heron Lagoon. This serene inland lagoon is a haven for birdlife and one of the park’s most peaceful corners. Keep an eye out for native wildlife as you stroll. Belle Isle is home to a surprising diversity of species, from graceful great blue herons to turtles basking in the sun along the lagoon’s edge. It’s a place where nature thrives just minutes from a major urban center. Across the Blue Heron Lagoon Bridge you'll find Belle Isle's "Hipster Zone." No, it won't be flooded with man buns and Vampire Weekend tunes. Named after the "blink and you'll miss it" Hipster Beach - the site of a 1967 hippy beach party - this 0.9 miles of hiking along the lagoon's northern woods will provide some of Belle Isle's best wildlife viewing opportunities. Back over the Blue Heron Lagoon Bridge, the final 0.5 miles of hiking will guide you past the Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse again and along the lagoon's southern shoreline. Other than a brief 0.2 mile detour on a natural trail, you will follow the gravel Eugene and Elaine C. Driker Trail directly back to Belle Isle's landmark trailhead. Photo courtesy of Paragon Properties DESTINATION #2: Sunset Point and James Scott Memorial Fountain Belle Isle isn’t just a natural retreat—it’s also home to some of Detroit’s most striking historic structures and romantic vistas. As your tour of Belle Isle Park continues, you’ll traverse the island to visit Sunset Point, a scenic overlook known for its panoramic river views and postcard-worthy vistas. Pause to take an the stunning international vantage point of both Downtown Detroit and its twin city Windsor, Ontario across the river. From Sunset Point, make your way to the magnificent James Scott Memorial Fountain . This grand marble fountain, one of the largest of its kind in the United States, stands as a testament to the island’s legacy as a place of beauty and public gathering - as well as a monument to controversial figure who funded it. Photo courtesy of The Perna Team DESTINATION #3: Nancy Brown Peace Carillon Continuing along Belle Isle's southern coastline, your next destination constitutes one of the park's most beautiful and unique landmarks: the Nancy Brown Peace Carillon . This neo-Gothic tower rises gracefully above the landscape, its bells once ringing out messages of peace and remembrance. Walking beneath its towering arches offers a quiet, reflective moment amid the day’s exploration. Beyond the architectural and natural elements of the tower, what makes Belle Isle's Nancy Brown Peace Carillon tower truly unique involves the story - and influential personality - behind its establishment. Annie Louise Leslie came to work at the Detroit News in 1919. She wrote what became an enormously popular advice column under the pen name "Nancy Brown," her real identity always kept a tightly held secret. Following up on a reader's suggestion, Brown went on to ask her audience to support the construction of a carillon (musical bell) tower in the park. At the height of the Great Depression, more than 60,000 readers donated small amounts - often pennies - until they had raised money enough to build the tower. Construction began in 1939, with a copper time capsule containing news clippings about the creation of the tower entombed in the cornerstone. The 85-foot Neo-Gothic tower was dedicated on June 17, 1940, in front of a crowd estimated by the city police to be 100,000 strong. Seeing as the bell tower on Belle Isle rose during the early days of World War II, it was dedicated to peace. As its bronze bells played for the first time, Nancy Brown finally revealed her face to the crowd. DESTINATION #4: Grand Finale at the Belle Isle Aquarium and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory The final stretch of your journey brings you to two of Belle Isle’s most beloved attractions: the Belle Isle Aquarium and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. The Belle Isle Aquarium , which is the oldest in the United States since opening in 1904, features a beautifully restored Beau-Arts historic exterior that reflects Detroit’s early 20th-century grandeur. The aquarium boasts a vast collection of saltwater and freshwater fish among its massive central tank, grand pillars, and beautiful green-tiled walls. Local legend says that the basement was home to a Prohibition-era speakeasy, and that, during a time of cinched purses and hungry bellies, a sea turtle named "Big Pete" was sold to the local fish market. Just steps away, the Conservatory invites you into a lush, glass-enclosed world of exotic plants and vibrant greenery—a striking contrast to the surrounding river landscape. Designed by Albert Kahn, the Conservatory also opened in1904 and was dedicated to Anna Scripps Whitcomb in 1955 after she donated her 600-plant orchid collection to the City of Detroit. The conservatory boasts 13 acres, a formal perennial garden, seasonal floral beds, a lily pond garden, and five sections of flora. For every genre of traveler, this guided itinerary of Belle Isle offers a truly special experience: a chance to connect with Detroit beyond its typical highlights. Rather than simply providing a tour, this experience constitutes a story told through landscapes, landmarks, and local insights. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys discovering hidden gems, Belle Isle delivers on every level. By the time you return to your home, hotel, or cruise ship cabin, you’ll carry with you not just photos, but a genuine sense of connection to one of Detroit’s most treasured places. BOOK A GUIDED HIKE OF BELLE ISLE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT!

We've done the fieldwork. The results are in. Here's our argument for why April is the best month for backpacking near Detroit! Every season in Detroit's outdoors has its "thing." Skiing and snowboarding easily dominate the winter months as the " Big Four Ski Resorts " near Detroit bustle on deep powder days. On the other end of the calendar, kayaking and paddle boarding lure recreationists to our region's refreshing lakes and rivers on scorching summer weekends. Fall can be a mixed bag in light of peak marathon and mountain biking seasons overlapping, but the latest stats support that deer hunting still carries the season's recreational crown in southeast Michigan. How about spring? Easy choice: backpacking near Detroit. Especially in early spring conditions. If that has you scratching your head, we understand the misplaced confusion. For starters, April in Metro Detroit can still be pretty cold. Exhibit A, the light snowfall that covered my garden beds this morning. Other readers might be surprised that the Detroit region has bona fide backpacking trails . If that's you, then you'll be pleasantly surprised to learn that we actually have three multi-day trails - with more on the way. Fortunately for you, aspiring Metro Detroit backpacker, we've done the field testing on your behalf to arrive at this conclusion. Over multiple seasons, in variable conditions. The confirmed hypothesis is that April reigns supreme as the best month for backpacking near Detroit, and for a litany of reasons. Allow us to demonstrate through these 9 key ones. JOIN EXPEDITION DETROIT ON A BACKPACKING TRIP THIS APRIL! 1. APRIL MEANS SPRING WITHOUT (MOST OF) THE BUGS Early spring provides the best of the outdoors sans bugs - although stay on tick patrol " No thanks, I'll be fine. I don't want the smell. " I can't imagine the face I must of been making back towards this person at the trailhead of a guided hike of Highland Recreation Area's " Haven Hill Loop ." We were hiking in late June, and I had just offered the whole group a can of mosquito repellent for the hordes of blood-thirsty bugs that waited for us amidst the wetlands that hug the scenic trail. I insisted that they reconsider my offer. They respectfully, yet firmly, denied such reconsideration. Roughly a mile later, everyone in the group - myself and this particular hiker included - were dousing ourselves in bug spray. The allure of "peak season" backpacking during summer months can often be undercut by ravenous mosquitoes, flies, and other insects that thrive in warm, humid conditions. When you backpack in April, you largely remove that variable from the backpacking equation. A pesky mosquito may crash the party every now and then, but for the most part you'll be hiking well before the arrival of peak bug season. There is one major exception to this general blessing: ticks . Over the last decade, Michigan's resident tick population has grown steadily - including the proliferation of tick-borne illnesses. The main "hatching" occurs in early spring, so please invest in ample permethrin and other tick-preventive applications before hitting the trail.   2. NO CROWDS, NO WORRIES Find your solitude on early season trails Have you ever wondered what differentiates a " hiking trail " from a " backpacking trail "? The two terms may seem interchangeable, but our thorough, Expedition Detroit -internal analysis determined that a "backpacking trail" represents a trail specifically and logistically planned for multi-day use, while a technical "hiking trail" can be fully enjoyed as a day hike. Stated differently, all "backpacking trails" can be regarded as "hiking trails," but not all "hiking trails" are "backpacking trails." I had ample time to ponder this question and so, so many more while backpacking the Chief Pontiac Trail in 2023. Alone. Over long, long stretches of interconnected "hiking trails" forming one singular "backpacking trail." During "peak hiking season," you rarely get such an opportunity to ponder the depths of the universe while enjoying the de-stimulation of nature. Even the grandest of insights easily get lost to the incessant " Hi ," or " How's it going ," and especially unexpected dog visits, when you're sharing the trail with hundreds of other recreationists. Backpacking in April provides unparalleled opportunities to reap the mental health benefits of solitude in nature. Whether you're looking to brainstorm your life's next adventure or processing a recent trauma, we're firm believers that long, winding miles through a budding forest will provide the inspiration and restoration that your soul desires. Nature remains the best therapist and life coach freely available to us all. Blind Lake's stunning backcountry campsite 3. WIDE OPEN CAMPSITES April means open season on Metro Detroit's 5-star campsites I kicked myself for over a year. When I first backpacked the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail in 2023, I opted to skip my reservation at Pinckney's "Blind Lake Campground" for a final 13-mile push from Green Lake to Silver Lake. It seemed like the best use of energy after 3 full, adventurous days on the trail. Then I read - via multiple sources - that Blind Lake wore the crown of Metro Detroit's top-rated backcountry campsite . More specifically, Blind Lake's Site #3 is THE most sought-after campsite in our region. I would not repeat this blasphemous error. One year later, in honor of the Potawatomi Trail's 60th anniversary , I planned to backpack the famous loop with an overnight at Blind Lake. At Site #3. Which I reserved as soon as the Michigan DNR's website permitted me to do so. I fully-expected to share a picturesque early-spring night with several other backpackers. Instead, I had all of Blind Lake to myself. I built a roaring campfire with the ample supply of dead wood. I washed away the dust from the trail in the refreshing lake. I wrote in my journal, listened to the harmonies of the surrounding frogs and birds, and gazed gratuitously as the dazzling starlit sky above me. Most notably, I remained awestruck that no one else was there to share that experience with me. April backpacking near Detroit provides such wonders. 4. RETURN OF WARM DAYS ON THE TRAIL April backpacking provides a preview of warmer days ahead on Metro Detroit's trails " First Michigan tests you, then it rewards you. " This slogan became increasingly popular on my "outdoor social media feed" last winter, usually paired with a video clip of a harsh Michigan winter transitioning into warm beach days and vibrantly lush forests. While we're ardent winter supporters, we also acknowledge the additional resiliency required for an outdoor enthusiasts to thrive in the bitter cold of a true Detroit winter. Yes, even Team Expedition Detroit admits to romanticizing warm summer days when we're trekking through bone-chilling conditions. Well, if Michigan truly "rewards" you, then April's warmth represents the first gift of the season. Within an hour or two of arising from your tent, the warm spring sun will revitalize your spirit for long miles on the trail. You'll enjoy your snacks sitting on a moss patch or log in full sunlight, basking in its energizing rays. If you're lucky, you might even get to cool off in a refreshing stream or lake after a hot day on the trail. 5. ENJOYMENT OF COOL NIGHTS AT THE CAMPGROUND Cooler nights are ideal for enjoying roaring campfires and restorative sleep Not to undermine the last point, but April backpacking also carries the gift of cool - sometimes crisp - nights at camp. Yes, colder nights are indeed a backpacker's best friend. Allow me to explain through a personal tale of woe. Eleven years ago, I planned a road trip on a budget back from a friend's wedding in Colorado. Rather than paying for another roadside hotel, I opted to book a campsite in rural Missouri in July. While en route to said campsite, I noticed that the outside thermometer hit 110ºF while in Kansas. I watched with a fool's hope as the temperature barely dropped as the sun began to set. By the time we reached our destination, the heat had relented to a respectable 104ºF. Safe to say zero sleep was obtained that night. Scientific studies consistently report that the optimal room temperature for sleeping is between 60º and 67ºF. While April's nighttime temperatures typically dip well below this range, it's worthwhile to note that a quality sleeping bag is rated for temperatures well below "optimal range." Stated differently, ideal "backpacking nighttime temperature" for market backpacking gear is more like 40sº-50sº since your sleep system should account for the 15-20º temperature difference. You guessed it: those nighttime temperature ranges are typical for April in Metro Detroit. Approach towards Prospect Hill - one of the famous "5 Summits" of Metro Detroit hiking. 6. BEST VISIBILITY FOR WARM WEATHER CONDITIONS Minimal fresh growth means panoramic views - even when in thick conditions " Wow, I had no idea Metro Detroit looked like THIS?! " That line could easily serve as another tag line for marketing Expedition Detroit's guided hiking tours - especially during "off-season" conditions between November and May. Alright , fine - the truth is that we hear exclamations like that every month of the year. But the cooler temperatures of the off-season months provide exceptionally good photography, wildlife spotting, and landscape viewing opportunities simply due to the lack of foliage. While our trails are renown for their beautifully dense coverage and brilliant fall colors, "stick season" conditions unveil the dramatic contours of our region's moraine ridge lines, flowing creeks and streams, inspiring high point vistas, and abundant wildlife. April represents the "last month standing" for these pristine visibility conditions before Metro Detroit's thick forest coverage subdues them. Don't miss your opportunity to enjoy our resident vistas while backpacking this month! 7. EARLY SEASON TRAINING FOR LONGER "PEAK SEASON" TRIPS Executing a shorter, early season backpacking trip provides excellent training for longer adventures later in the year Let's start with an objective truth: Metro Detroit has adventure-worthy destinations that, despite our best efforts, remain overlooked by the mainstream outdoor community. Fortunately that narrative is rapidly changing, and we will continue to promote and create world-class outdoor adventure opportunities while the rest of the world catches on. That being said, the wide world of adventure has terrain that is objectively more challenging than our local confines. I've spent most of my adult life utilizing the Detroit region's most rugged trails as idyllic training grounds for other, "Peak Season" trips. From the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail to Peru's Inca Trail, Mt. Kanzer to Mt. Kilimanjaro, backpacking Metro Detroit's trails in early season conditions has proven to be a trusted training routine for conquering some of the world's most difficult backpacking feats later in the year. 8. EXPERIENCE THE SPRING BLOOM ON THE TRAIL April backpacking provides the rare opportunity to experience spring's first blooms in the heart of nature My favorite Earth Day occurred on April 22nd, 2023. I awoke to the gentle patter of rain on the roof of my trusted REI Camp Dome tent , a light-two person tent that I've carried on most of my backpacking adventures. Once the rain subsided, I emerged to find that, as expected, I remained the sole inhabitant of Waterloo Recreation Area's "Pines" backcountry campsite from the day before. Thirty minutes later and a full breakfast stored efficiently in my belly, I embarked on a full 24 hours of uninterrupted indulgence in nature through Waterloo's "high country." Over 12 miles of trekking through the heart of the park, including summiting "Prospect Hill," one of Metro Detroit's "Five Summits" and the highest point of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. The best part of this full day on the trail, though? The bloom - spring's annual adoration of Metro Detroit's wildest places in a colorful splendor that would even fill King Solomon with envy. Wildflowers danced eagerly along the trail, while the gentle green hue of miles upon beautiful miles of unspoiled woodlands just emerging from winter's slumber provided a hypnotic backdrop to nature's renaissance of vitality. Sunbeams glinted off of the morning's remaining rainfall on the nascent leaves. Bird songs filled the otherwise silent air. Everything felt new, and pure, and beautiful again. There's no psychedelic or therapeutic experience on the market that can rival such an immersion into the spring bloom. All that's required is nominal planning and maximum presence on Metro Detroit's backpacking trails during early spring - and especially in April. 9. OPPORTUNITY TO TEST "ALL SEASON" GEAR The variability of April backpacking near Detroit means you'll most likely be able to test the full spectrum of your backpacking kit. April showers do indeed bring May flowers - as well as the opportunity to test the full spectrum of your backpacking kit . If you've made it to this point of the article, then we're willing to bet that you've actually read the aforementioned points. Of the many themes to be extracted from those points, a main one includes that April backpacking near Detroit will throw the whole gamut of conditions at you. You could easily wake up with light snow on your tent, thaw out to scorching heat, quickly build your shelter under a downpour, and then fall asleep next to tranquil waters...only to wake up to more snow. Yes, that variability can be frustrating. But it also provides a rare opportunity to test the full spectrum of our backpacking kit on a condensed, early season trip. Trust me - it's a lot better to learn that your rain gear doesn't work when you're within an hour's drive from a local REI vs. 13 miles into the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park. If that sounds like an incredibly specific example, well, let's just say it was a lesson learned the hard way. Are you looking to test our hypothesis on why April is the best month for backpacking near Detroit? You're in luck - Expedition Detroit is proud to launch GUIDED BACKPACKING TRIPS along the Potawatomi Trail this April! Limited spots remain, so book now to start your spring backpacking adventure through the best of Metro Detroit's outdoors!

Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition journeys to the Detroit region's northernmost destination - Holly Recreation Area - and its quintessential Wilderness Trail Loop . We invite you to explore this oasis of wilderness on our metropolitan frontier! "Wilderness in Oakland County - alright, I definitely need to check this one out." Those were my thoughts as I first read about Holly Recreation Area's famous " Wilderness Trail Loop " in Jim DuFresne's 50 Hikes in Michigan guidebook, and admittedly, I was skeptical. Don't get me wrong, I was practically praying for the "wilderness" designation to hold true, but come on... Holly Recreation Area is located in Oakland County and bisected by I-75, one of the premiere commercial corridors of the entire State of Michigan. Could this trail really hold up to its name? How does one even define " wilderness "? The WILD Foundation has provided the most immediate definition available on Google: " Wilderness " is " the most intact, undisturbed wild natural areas left on our planet – those last truly wild places that humans do not control and have not developed with roads, pipelines or other industrial infrastructure ." " Those last truly wild places ." We at Expedition Detroit love that shorthand version of the definition, because it denotes a sense of scarcity to the nature of wilderness. Yes, the stunningly vast and untamed mountainous regions Out West undoubtedly qualify as wilderness. But under this definition, so does those hundreds of acres of forest that our forefathers decided were worth preserving in their God-ordained state, free from the scourge of development that the coming decades would unleash around them. Those sanctuaries that have become vital component's of North America's fight against a mental health epidemic . Those trails where you can just be in your natural state. Yes: we're relieved to report that the Wilderness Trail Loop qualifies as a bona fide wilderness area. A truly wild place where you can explore free from developed society's omnipresence. It's our pleasure to reintroduce Holly Recreation Area and its most beloved trail now. MEET HOLLY RECREATION AREA The formal history of Holly Recreation Area dates back towards the end of the Second World War . As hundreds of thousands of soldiers, sailors, and pilots started to return from the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific, those men also brought back an unprecedented interest and experience with outdoor recreation due to their military training, outdoor gear, and newfound leisure time afforded to them by postwar prosperity. From the mid-1940s on, this booming interest in America's outdoor spaces prompted an explosion in the development and protection of Federal, state, and community parks. Holly Recreation Area and its 8,007 protected acres resulted from that interest . In 1944, the preliminary boundaries of Holly State Recreation Area were established and the park officially opened in 1948. The development of picnic areas, campgrounds, and structural facilities continued into the 1950s, including the establishment of Mt. Holly Ski Area (before its transfer to private ownership in 1966). The park's size continued to grow well into the 1980s as the Michigan Department of Conservation acquired approximately 3,500 additional acres straddling both sides of I-75. Nearly 80 years since its establishment, the Holly Recreation Area of today still maintains its defining rolling woodlands and open fields for endless outdoor recreational opportunities. The recreation area has evolved into a generational destination for hiking, camping, swimming, picnicking, fishing, boating, and hunting. As of recent years, the park has also become increasingly sought-after for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Nonetheless, hiking still remains Holly Rec.'s most popular recreational activity, with 66% of park visitors exploring its forests and grasslands on foot. And - you guessed it - the Wilderness Trail Loop represents Holly Recreation Area's most revered hiking route. Let's get to the trail.

Sixty years of POTO! In honor of the Potawatomi Trail's anniversary, we retraced the bootprints and tire marks of generations of Detroit's greatest outdoor enthusiasts along one of our region's most beloved trails. "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." This quote from tennis player Arthur Ashe is beautiful in its simplicity and applicability. Whether you're building a business, strengthening a relationship, or just conjuring the motivation to get out of bed, sometimes trying to chart the ideal route for tackling life's most daunting challenges can be overwhelming. Especially when viewed in the aggregate. A group of Detroit-based outdoor enthusiasts had a major life obstacle of their own about 70 years ago. In the post-WWII era, Michigan as a whole - and especially Metro Detroit - experienced a boom in interest in outdoor recreation. In the 20 year period following the end of the war, Michigan gained 29 state parks and recreation areas, 11 of which were established in Southeast Michigan within a two year period . As we all know, an explosion of Michigan state parks and recreation areas weren't the only "boom" occurring in the post-war era. Michigan's population grew nearly 50% in the same timeframe, leading to a particularized emergence of youth interest in outdoor recreation. There was only one problem: accessible backpacking trails. Believe it or not, the Detroit region's Boy Scouts were largely leaving the state in the 1950s in order find "suitable hiking trails" for scouts to practice their skills within. So, in 1957 - inspired by the founding of the Chief Pontiac Trail in Oakland County - the Boy Scouts of Michigan petitioned the State of Michigan to build a designated hiking loop trail in the region. After years of negotiations, the Potawatomi Trail was formally approved by the State and the Portage Trail Council Boy Scouts of America in early 1962. The trail officially opened two years later on May 23, 1964 at about 12 miles in length . Over the next 60 years, its expansion to 17.6 miles included the construction of multiple bridges, steel markers, countless Eagle Scout projects, and 52 years of fundraising hikes to raise over $250,000. More importantly, "Poto" inspired both the flourishing of Detroit's backpacking community, including the later construction of and integration within the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, and its mountain biking faithful. In honor of Poto's 60th anniversary, we set out on 2024's inaugural Expedition Detroit backpacking trip to retrace the bootprints of generations of Detroit-based outdoor enthusiasts. What we (re)discovered were flourishing forests, wide open trails, spacious campgrounds , crisp waterways, and a crackling fire. It's our pleasure to report that the 60-year dream of creating a destination for Detroit-region backpacking is alive and well. It's our privilege to reintroduce Pinckney State Recreation Area and the Potawatomi Trail now. EXPERIENCE THE POTAWATOMI TRAIL FIRSTHAND ON A BACKPACKING TRIP WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! MEET PINCKNEY STATE RECREATION AREA The modern history of Pinckney State Recreation Area dates back to our last ice age. Truly - the park's dramatic moraines and kettle lakes that our regional recreationists love to hike, bike, hunt, and fish were formed within the Jackson Interlobate Range as the glaciers receded across the Great Lakes region ~10,000 years ago.

No ropes, no worries. Live your next adventure in Metro Detroit exploring each of the "5 Summits" - Expedition Detroit's favorite destinations for hiking the five most iconic hilltops near Detroit! There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing, and mountaineering. All the rest are merely games. Those aren't my words, although I appreciate the hot take. No; those were spoken (likely after a Papa Doble or two) by Ernest Hemingway , the renown American author whose appetite for adventure rivaled that of Theodore Roosevelt. What's the commonality among these three true "sports"? According to Outdoor Research , simply because they can kill you. However, according to Hemingway scholars, these three endeavors mandate that one achieves the best performance that they personally can for success - or else face potentially fatal consequences. For us at Expedition Detroit , the beauty of mountaineering - or reaching any summit or high point - lies in the pursuit's binary definition of success. You summit, or you do not. Your body and willpower lead you to a place of prominence, or they do not. And, once such a feat has been accomplished, it can never be taken from you. You will have earned the ability to share your experience, guide others, or reflect back on a special moment in your life's grand journey. Simply because you did it. Will you experience breath-taking, snowcapped mountaintop sunrises within the Detroit region? No - we unfortunately are not blessed with such topography. However, the Detroit region is not nearly as flat as most residents and non-residents alike tend to think. I trained entirely for my Kilimanjaro summit along the rolling trails listed within this article, as well as several other rigorous trails like Pontiac Lake's MTB Trail and Highland's A-B-C-D Trail System . The net result? In part, the credibility to write this article. Summits and high points - no matter the altitude - are worthy of exploring and celebrating . From their geographic significance to remoteness to prominence along a favorite trail, reaching a summit should always warrant a brief moment to pause, take in your surroundings, take a sip of water (or trail beer), and smile. Because that adventurous moment, lived and experienced here in Metro Detroit, will forever be yours. Let's start the adventure. Here are Expedition Detroit's 5 Summits : the most iconic hilltops near Detroit. HAVE YOU CONQUERED THE "5 SUMMITS"? MEMORIALIZE YOUR ACHIEVEMENT WITH A LIMITED EDITION PATCH! 5. Wayne Hill | Maybury State Park | Northville, Michigan

April means spring, and spring means the return of prime time in Detroit's outdoors! As our trails, campgrounds, and waterways reopen for the masses, these " Top Ten Outdoor Events " will serve as your guide for navigating this month's super-bloom of recreation opportunities - APRIL 2026 EDITION . Congratulations! If you're reading this, then you've successfully survived March , the purgatory of outdoor recreation in the Detroit region. Not quite winter. Not quite spring. Just... March . A turn of the calendar may not feel like much, but for the majority of outdoor enthusiasts in the Great Lakes, April 1st marks "Opening Day" for the great migration back to our trails. Hiking, trail running, backpacking, cycling, mountain biking, paddling, canoe camping ...even hunting is back on the agenda for April. Yes, you should probably acquire some rain gear and waterproof boots. But our wild places will be fully-open for business again this month, which is absolutely worth celebrating . In anticipation of the new world of outdoor opportunities opening up tomorrow, we sifted through the deluge of experiences to curate this list of the "Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit" for April 2026. We can't wait to see you all again on the trails this spring! 1. Experience the Best of "April in the D" at the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Throughout April | Outdoor Adventure Center, Detroit, Michigan This is NOT an April Fool's joke : spring has FINALLY arrived in the Detroit region, and there's no better way to experience the very best of "April in the D" than at the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center! This month, the Detroit Riverfront staple is hosting a litany of outdoor recreation-related events to celebrate the return of "peak outdoor season" in Metro Detroit. Here's a breakdown of our favorites: April 8th: " Explore Archery " program that will give participants the opportunity to learn to safely handle a bow, learn proper stance and shoot several arrows. April 12th:  " Farm and Garden Expo " where participants can get up close to farm animal friends and have a field day exploring the OAC, meeting partner organizations, and growing their knowledge about all things farm and garden. April 18th: " Pheasant of Detroit " film showing, exhibits, and guided walk along Milliken State Park in search of "the unofficial city bird of Detroit." April 25th: " Trails Expo " featuring local experts in hiking, biking, paddling and more. Learn tips and tricks for hitting the trails, then test out your skills in hands-on workshops. 2. Hunt for Eggs at the Easter Egg Scramble April 4th   | Lake Erie Metropark | 10 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. As legendary outdoorsman Elmer Fudd so eloquently once stated, "It's wabbit season!" Well... it's Easter Bunny season, and more specifically Easter Egg hunting season at Lake Erie Metropark this Saturday, April 4th! The fine folks at Lake Erie Metropark invite you and the whole family to attend one of their " Easter Egg Scramble " events, where egg hunting enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy festive crafts, games, and more! Both "Egg Scramble" events will start indoors and end outdoors. The official egg hunt will be conducted in the Tot-Lot area near the Lake Erie Food Bar. Pre-registration is required by 4 p.m. on April 3rd. Photo courtesy of Fleet Feet 3. Seize the Day - and Night - at the Carpe Diem/Noctem Trail Race April 11th | Proud Lake State Recreation Area | 8:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The ice has thawed . The trails are (eventually) drying. The birds, blooms, and beauty of spring in Michigan's state parks and recre ation areas are starting to return to full strength. Now is the PERFECT time to run Proud Lake's famous trails that you've missed all winter long! So perfect that you should run them twice... in the same day ...as your first trail race of the season. That's the hypothesis of the " Carpe Diem - Noctem " 10K and half-marathon trail race events, and we absolutely dig it. This dual time/multiple event extravaganza offers a variety of racing options for runners looking to burn up Proud Lake's loops for both their morning and evening runs. Plus, finishers will get to add one of the most unique medals that we've ever seen to their collection. Yeah, we're sold. EXPLORE PROUD LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 4. Run Out of this World at the Martian Invasion of Races April 11th | Dearborn, Michigan | 7:15 a.m. Once a year, Dearborn literally becomes the center of the universe : the destination for an intergalactic coalition of Earthlings and Martians. Each jumping to hyperspeed for cosmic journeys of 5K to full marathon -length expeditions. Regardless of whether you will be embarking on that all-important "one small step" for your fitness journey, or a "giant leap" towards conquering your distance running goals, the Martian Invasion of Races has an event for every outdoor - and outer space - enthusiast. 5. Fight Back Against Invasive Species at a DNR Volunteer Workday April 11th | Bald Mountain State Recreation Area | 9:00 a.m. Winter provides a double-edged sword when it comes to the beautification of our favorite outdoor spaces. On one hand, the clean slate of a fresh blanket of snow provides postcard-worthy images of untainted beauty. On the other hand, that deep powder covers a vast ecosystem of invasive plant species, which wait patiently until spring's revival to renew their assault on our wild spaces. We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but we're entering the latter of those two circumstances now. Fortunately for all outdoor enthusiasts, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has organized an official " Volunteer Stewardship Workday " to remove garlic mustard that threatens to take over Bald Mountain State Recreation Area's valuable woodland. Long-sleeve shirts, long pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended. Register by emailing Anna Cone at conea1@michigan.gov . 6. Get in the Woods for Opening Day of Turkey Season April 18th | Throughout Michigan Turkeys in April...? For non-hunters, this inclusion likely strikes you as an out-of-place callback to fall foliage, unavoidable family arguments, and the Lions' push towards a playoff berth ( this seas on for sure ). For hunters, April is primetime to get back into the woods for spring turkey season . In the Detroit region, opening day officially kicks off at 6:16 a.m. on the 18th. Beyond the recreational enjoyment and plentiful harvest that turkey season entails, we also wanted to highlight the immense conservation value of regulated turkey hunting - often dubbed the " Greatest Conservation Success Story. " When the National Wild Turkey Federation was founded in 1973, only 1.3 million wild turkeys remained in the continent. Now, after 50+ years of careful conservation and management, there are approximately 7 million wild turkeys throughout North America . Science-backed conservation works, and we at Expedition Detroit are proud to support it. Both by getting in the woods and through our direct involvement with the Michigan Wildlife Council . We hope that join us in conserving Michigan's cherished wildlife this spring! Learn More about the Michigan Wildlife Council 7. Celebrate Spring in the Mitten at the Michigan Made Half Marathon April 18th | Milford, Michigan | 8 a.m. Michigan - the " Great Trails State " - is built for runners. From paved routes to backcountry trails, our state ha s been reimagined as a logistical paradise for runners of all genres. Especially right here in the Detroit region, where our network of interconnected trails continues to flourish like wildflowers in spring . Sounds like something worth celebrating, right? Our #ExpeditionPartner Running Venture  agrees - and has designed the perfect racing event for celebrating the art of running Michigan's trails. This month don't miss Running Venture's " Michigan Made " Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K event! Celebrating "all things Michigan," the races start at Central Park in Milford and run the paved Milford/Kensington Trail, as well as the dirt back roads in Milford before finishing back at Central Park. All participants will receive a custom race shirt, finisher medal, and complimentary refreshments. SAVE 15% ON YOUR RACE REGISTRATION WITH CODE " 15EXPDET26 "! 8. Backpack the Famous Potawatomi Trail with Expedition Detroit! April 18-19th   | Pinckney State Recreation Area | 10 a.m.   FINALLY! Team Expedition Detroit is ECSTATIC to finally launch our guided backpacking trips this April, starting with an ~18 mile loop of our regions first backpacking trail: the Potawatomi Trail ! This overnight adventure will include a stay at scenic Blind Lake Campground - largely regarded as the most sought-after backcountry campsite in Southeast Michigan. With a small group size, easy pacing, engaging terrain, and lakeside sunset, this will be an unforgettable adventure for first-time backpackers and intrepid explorers alike. YOUR POTO BACKPACKING ADVENTURE STARTS HERE! 9. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve April 18th   | Point Pelee National Park | 7:30 p.m.   The days may finally be getting lighter, but the stars at Point Pelee National Park  - one of the best stargazing destination in the Detroit region  - are still shining as bright as ever!  Point Pelee's " Dark Sky Nights " are especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave near-freezing temperatures at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours, seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos.    This event also corresponds with " International Dark Sky Week " occurring across the Great Lakes region during April 13th through 20th! This week represents the perfect time to go stargazing and learn about the importance of the night sky. 10. Kick Off Trail Racing Season at THE Trail Marathon April 26th | Pinckney State Recreation Area | 8:00 a.m. In full transparency, this may be the single event that we're most looking forward to this month for a few very subjective reasons . First, the " Road End 5-Mile " event was the first trail race that I ever completed and fundamentally changed my love, appreciation, and understanding of trail running. Second, " Trail Marathon " formally kicks off RF Events' " GOAT Trail Series ," a season-long trail running series where runners collect points to compete for a prestigious "GOAT" (Greatest Of All Time) title. Our trail running team has a ton of fun - and found some extra running motivation - while participating in the past four series. We'll s ee you all at the official starting line of the 2026 trail season! EXPLORE PINCKNEY STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Welcome to peak foraging season, Detroit! Here's the Expedition Detroit guide on adding some flavor to your hikes by highlighting seven edible plants for easy foraging in Southeast Michigan (and beyond). "I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it." Each of us can probably think of an item or two that pops into our mind after reading that statement. For an outdoor enthusiast, that statement typically enters our vernacular when planning for an extended outing, such as a multi-day backpacking trip , long trail run , or thru-paddle . "Do I really need that extra pair of socks?" "How much water is too much for this ride?" "Should I pack the snowshoes for these conditions?" Fortunately, taking the time to learn a few critical survival skills represents an "I'd rather have it and not need it" time investment that can immensely benefit your outdoor experience - with life-saving returns - without adding any weight to your pack. One basic survival lesson includes the " Rule of 3s ": You can generally survive 3 minutes without breathable air while unconscious or in icy water. You can generally survive 3 hours in a harsh environment (extreme heat or cold) without adequate shelter. You can generally survive 3 days without drinkable water. You can generally survive 3 weeks without edible food. This article, as you've probably guessed by now, focuses on the last bullet: foraging for edible food in the Detroit region's wildest places. Did you know you might be stepping on something you can eat? There are dozens of edible plants native to Southeast Michigan.  And guess what? A lot of them aren’t hard to find. 🤫 You just need to know where to look!  In this article, you’ll learn about seven easy-to-spot plants you can forage on your next hike.   This article covers: An introduction to foraging; and Edible plants that are native to Southeast Michigan  This article is your guide to discovering edible plants throughout the Detroit region's wildest parks and trails - as well as in your own backyard. What is Foraging? Foraging is like a treasure hunt  in nature. You search for wild, edible plants and mushrooms to harvest and enjoy. It’s an age-old practice that connects us to the land  and the natural food sources around us.  In Southeast Michigan, you can forage in:  Forests Fields Meadows  Along trails and roadsides Lawns ( aka your own backyard ) When you forage, you're not just collecting food - you're learning to identify plants and understand their growing environments . Foraging provides a fantastic way to spend time outdoors, get some exercise, and bring home fresh AND free ingredients  for your kitchen. Plus, it can turn any hike into an adventure. Edible Plants Native to Southeast Michigan Let’s dive into seven edible plants that you can easily forage  in Southeast Michigan.  For each plant, you’ll discover: What the species looks like Where to find them Best uses for each plant    As an extra bonus, we've provided a "Cheatsheet" for each plant that you'll be able to readily reference while out in the field or in the kitchen.

Brace yourself - the super bloom is coming! As spring continues to gradually reclaim its domain over Detroit's revitalized environment, here are the "Top 5 Outdoor Destinations" for experiencing the best days of the season. Wildflowers. Morels. Wetlands. Turkeys. And trails. Lots and lots of trails. When we think of spring in the Detroit region , that list forms the crème de la crème of our seasonal outdoor highlights. Regardless of whether you're heading into the trails to lose yourself amidst the soft green of freshly budding trees, ducking under a log in search of nature's most revered mushroom, or calling patiently in the early morning mist for that heart-racing gobble, our environment truly rewards its recreationists after waiting patiently during our coldest months. Plus, we can all agree that trails decorated in vibrant regalia - ranging from spring's purple and white to fall's orange and red - are the best trails. This may be the best part of all: we're still a week or two away from Mother Nature kicking off the real spectacle. The consistent heat and morning bird calls may have returned over Easter weekend, but current "leaf anomaly" data still shows most of the Detroit region remaining in pre-spring conditions. Several of our region's favorite trails are still shedding winter's lingering mud pits. Turkey season doesn't kick off until April 22nd. Morels will continue spawning into May, and wildflowers consistently bloom well into summer. Framed differently, this current "peak spring" weather is providing us all with a glimpse of the beauty and adventure that's to come. Rather than fighting through a stubborn winter, we have collectively been gifted extra weeks to start rediscovering our trails and waterways, while simultaneously planning for our expeditions coming later this season. That is where this article fits in - a "spring preview" to help orientate you towards the best experiences of our seasonal outdoors and where to enjoy them. Here are Expedition Detroit's "Top 5 Outdoor Destinations" for inspiring your spring 2023 adventures. 1. HIKING FOR WILDFLOWERS Destination: Nichols Arboretum | Ann Arbor, MI When to Visit: Mid-April through Early July Recommended Experience: Hiking the Nichols Arboretum Loop Trail Very few outdoor experiences will stop you in your tracks like stumbling upon a field exploding with wildflowers . A stunning array of colors - purple, yellow, pink, orange, red, and green - forming waves of vibrancy as a breeze gently moves them. You abruptly find yourself transported back to the Garden of Eden, or experiencing a small window into nirvana. A serendipitous witness to beauty in its wildest, purest, and most natural form. Less poetically speaking, wildflowers are rad . And out of all of the stunning destinations where you can discover them in the Detroit region, Ann Arbor's Nichols Arboretum consistently tops local lists at the best destination to experience the flowers in full bloom. Fortunately for wildflower wanderers, the Nichols Arboretum Loop Trail provides a convenient AND scenic route for enjoying this season's anticipated bloom just outside of the heart of Ann Arbor. The trail consists of a 2.7 mile loop that oscillates between the initial hills of Ann Arbor's northeastern periphery and the relatively flat banks of the Huron River. There are also many side trails that can be added onto this main loop if you're looking to further explore the beauty of "The Arb." Throughout your trip you'll come across countless species of plants and flowers, including rhododendrons, magnolia blossoms, hydrangeas, and many more. Don't worry about reading up on your botany before hitting the trail - there are educational signs posted throughout the route, so take your time, learn something new, and enjoy one of the Detroit region's most beautiful outdoor spaces! Photo courtesy of Townsquare Media, Inc. 2. HUNTING FOR MORELS Destination: Waterloo State Recreation Area | Chelsea, MI When to Visit: Late April through mid-June Recommended Experience: Hiking the Bog Trail For generations of Michiganders, spring hunting for morel mushrooms transcends simply being a"tradition" to resemble more of a "ritual." In fact, morel hunting has become such a widespread pursuit that the DNR has produced several educational and recreational resources designed to facilitate the tourism opportunity surrounding morel hunting. One of these resources includes the DNR's " Mi-Morels Map ," which designates large burn sites in forested areas that are ideal for morel mushroom hunting. While there are several ideal morel hunting destinations highlighted by the Mi-Morels Map, Waterloo State Recreation Area tops the list as the only state area with three designated burn locations. Of those three locations, we cross-reference the Mi-Morels Map with a Waterloo trail map to determine that the park's 1.2 mile "Bog Trail" should provide hikers with the best opportunity to bag some prized and delicious morels. The trail is also relatively lightly used by Detroit's greater outdoor community ( at least for now ), so we highly recommend hunting this trail sooner than later. Remember: Morels found on public land are for personal use and cannot be sold! 3. RIDING WITH THE FAMILY Destination: Macomb Orchard Trail | Utica, MI When to Visit: All Spring Recommended Experience: Cycling the Trail The ice thaws, the weather warms, and scores of cyclists return to the Detroit region's vast network of paved trails . While our area is blessed with hundreds of miles of beautifully-planned trails to explore, the interconnected trail system forming " Route 1 " of " The Great Lake-To-Lake Trails " provides the central vein of southeastern Michigan's entire recreational ecosystem. Although Route 1 crosses the entire State of Michigan from Port Huron to South Haven, the trail network crosses into the sphere of the Detroit region at Richmond, Michigan - the northern terminus of the beloved Macomb Orchard Trail . The 23-mile trail provides a slice of everything that outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests can enjoy. Starting from the southern terminus at the Clinton River Trail , trail users will experience a rolling, shifting landscape that starts among suburban neighborhoods and into vast open spaces, long tunnels of trees, quaint country towns, and, naturally, an orchard just south of Romeo. Other trail highlights include a unique barn covered bridge, wooded landscapes, stunning views over the Clinton River, and an eventual cumulation in the welcoming downtown of Richmond. Looking to tack on even more adventure to the day? The Macomb Orchard Trail also provides direct access to Stony Creek Metropark via the Stony Creek Hike-Bike Trail . This 6.1 mile trail further connects to several recreational outlets within the metropark, including mountain biking trails, Stony Creek Lake, and several natural trails. Photo courtesy of the National Wild Turkey Federation 4. ON THE TURKEY TRAIL Destination: Seven Lakes State Park and Holly Recreation Area | Holly, Michigan When to Visit: Late April through May Recommended Experience: Bird watching or hunting If fall is predominantly focused on the pursuit of whitetail deer , then spring is the turkey's time in the spotlight . Yes, for a sizable proportion of Michigan's conservation community, spring turkeys are infinitely more significant now than even Thanksgiving or Christmas. Thanks largely to the research and advocacy of organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation and careful management by the DNR , Michigan's population of wild turkeys has consistently - and significantly - grown over the last 50 years so that generations of hunters and birdwatchers alike can enjoy observing this uniquely North American bird. While licensed hunters can pursue Michigan's turkeys in most state-managed areas, there are a select handful of state lands that the DNR has specifically anointed as suggested locations for prime spring turkey hunting opportunities . Several of these are in the Detroit region, but two are uniquely located within the same township : Seven Lakes State Park and Holly Recreation Area in Holly Township. Of these two destinations, Holly Recreation Area is especially well-suited for turkey hunting due to its 8,000+ acres, rolling woodlands, and open fields. Both natural areas are prime destinations for conventional birdwatching activities as well, both for wild turkeys and other rare birds. We will be publishing a specific article on the Spring 2023 Turkey Season soon, but in the meantime all prospective turkey hunters should review the DNR's 2023 Spring Turkey Digest . 5. DISCOVERING NEW PARKS Destination: Ojibway Prairie Complex | Windsor, ON When to Visit: All Spring Recommended Experience: Hiking the Black Oak Heritage and Ojibway Nature Center Trails As our seasoned readers are well-aware of by now, the "Detroit Region" that Expedition Detroit covers goes far beyond Detroit proper - as well as the State of Michigan. Our "within 1 hour of Downtown Detroit" crosses well into southern Ontario and into the trails, wetlands, and forests of our Canadian neighbors. Highlighting the amazing outdoor attributes of Point Pelee National Park has become a favorite past time of ours, as well as introducing new destinations like Amherstburg to our predominantly U.S.-based community. We're excited to expand our American knowledge of Canada's recreational landscape a little further here by formally introducing the Ojibway Prairie Complex : a collection of six protected natural areas within a 10-minute drive of downtown Windsor that are largely administered by the Ojibway Nature Center. Of these recreation areas - all of which are slated to form Canada's first "National Urban Park" in the coming years - Black Oak Heritage and Ojibway Parks are especially noted as sought-after hiking, trail running, mountain biking destinations for wildflower AND wildlife viewing. The Black Oak Heritage Trail is the longer of the two largely flat trails, stretching out to 5.6 miles. The trail is predominately utilized for mountain biking, so hikers and runners should travel in the opposite direction of bike traffic for safety. The area is also well known for its deer population, so dogs should be kept on a 6 ft./2m leash. The Ojibway Nature Centre Trail is significantly shorter than the Black Oak Heritage Trail, tracked at a whopping 1.6 miles. Don't underestimate the experience of this fantastic loop, however; Ojibway Park has rightfully earned its reputation as a premiere destination for wildflower and wildlife viewing, including vast variety of birds, turtles, and deer. This trail is far more popular for hiking than biking, so hikers will not need to keep an eye or two open as much for bike traffic while enjoying the trail. What are your outdoor recreation plans for this spring? Are there any destinations that we should highlight for the Expedition Detroit community? Let us know in the comments!

The trees are green. The trails are groomed. The campgrounds are open. May means that all systems are firing for Detroit's outdoors, and these " Top Ten Outdoor Events " are perfect for diving head first into the immensity of outdoor experiences waiting for you this month! This might be the strangest way to start an article ever, but I want you to stop reading for a second. Look out the window, or around you if you're already outside. Hear the songbirds chirping in the freshly budded trees above you. Smell the fresh aurora of an environment reborn. Appreciate the blooming plants about you and the remerging wildlife that has joined you in this springtime rite. Feel the sun's rays hinting at warmer days waiting just around the corner. That, my friends, represents a microcosm of May in the Detroit region's outdoors. A 31-day celebration of a resurgent environment after months of blustering cold and rain. What started with reawakening trees, birds, and wildlife in April evolves into a natural, ecosystem-wide festival of life throughout May. Rivers teeming with paddlers . Trails embracing riders . And lifelong memories being made throughout our hallowed campgrounds . With our recreational system reopened on all fronts, Spring in greater Detroit's outdoors can represent a chaotic, daunting challenge. Like a child walking into Disney World for the first time, the sudden inundation of recreational opportunities available to us can be paralyzing. As we all recalibrate to primetime in Detroit's outdoors, these Top Ten Outdoor Events will ease the transition by providing fun, engaging, challenging, and rewarding experiences. Happy May - we can't wait to see you out there again! 1. Discover New Trails on a Spring Hike May 3rd | Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area, ON | 5:00 p.m. Right at the start of a new month - brimming with new life and recreational opportunities - the team at Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area invites you to join them on a Spring Hike to discover a rejuvenated environment! Located on the far eastern rim of the Detroit region, Kopegaron Woods features a vast variety of the classic Carolinian flora species that southern Ontario is widely-renown for, including old growth trees, shrubs, and spring ephemerals, and early woodland wildflowers. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and to note that trail conditions vary from boardwalks to natural forest floor/trail. 2. Embrace the Night on a Full Moon Hike May 5th | Oakwoods Metropark | 8:00 p.m. The days may rapidly be getting lighter, but the Detroit region's nighttime hiking opportunities still remain as prominent and engaging as ever . For most nocturnal recreationists, hiking under a full moon provides one of the most unique and naturally illuminating experiences of any calendar month. Especially on a cloudless night, there's an indescribable magic to night hiking without needing to turn your headlamp on thanks to the brilliance of a full moon. If you're looking for a more curated experience for full moon hiking, then head over to Oakwoods Metropark for their "Worm Moon" full moon guided hike ! This guided event will also include informational sessions on the etymology of full moon names, astronomy, and wildlife viewing. This event further provides an awesome opportunity to experience the woodlands and riverbanks of Oakwoods "after dark," seeing as the park typically closes at dusk. 3. Give Back at a DNR Volunteer Workday Throughout May | Bald Mountain, Highland, Island Lake, and Pinckney State Recreation Areas | 9 a.m. As Mahatma Gandhi so eloquently stated, " Action expresses priorities ." As applied to our region's outdoors, the Expedition Detroit team interprets this statement as a call to care for the people and places that you value, and that your values should further manifest into action. We care immensely for our wildest, most pristine outdoor destinations, as well as for the team at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources that so diligently cares for them. Any opportunity to assist the DNR with their operations is an opportunity well-worth seizing. Fortunately for all of us, the DNR has taken the lead in sponsoring several official "Volunteer Stewardship Workday" events across the Detroit region at Highland State Recreation Area (May 6th), Pinckney State Recreation Area (May 7th), Bald Mountain State Recreation Area (May 13th and 17th), Island Lake State Recreation Area (May 20th). Work crew activities will focus on piling brush, stacking firewood, cutting invasive shrubs, and restoring wetlands. Rain boots or other waterproof boots are recommended for these events, and preregistration is required. Photo courtesy of National Association of State Foresters 4. Mind your Mental Health at the Detroit Riverfront Throughout May | Gabriel Richard Park and Dequindre Cut, Detroit, MI Did you know that the act of simply standing near water will boost your mental health ? Or that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Well, our friends at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy clearly have both of these facts at the top of their mind. The DRC they will host several " Mental Health Awareness and Mindfulness " events at Gabriel Richard Park and the Dequindre Cut throughout May, including sound bowl workshops, fitness and yoga classes, free lunches, and a labyrinth walk. Come discover why the Detroit Riverfront - the #1 riverfront in the United States for three years in a row - provides one of the city's top destination s for both physical and mental rejuvenation! 5. Run for the Ale of It May 12th | Detroit, MI | 6:30 p.m. Beer and 5Ks are a match made in heaven. We don't know who the first genius was to recognize that a crisp beer beats the hell out of a finish line banana, but they sincerely deserve a Nobel Prize for such a great contribution to outdoor society. Beer tents at finish lines are now as common as podiums, and any race bib that doesn't feature a tear-off beer coupon is a bib not worth wearing. RF Event's " Hightail to Ale " 5K race - sponsored by Atwater Brewery - perfects this concept with a Friday evening event that ends, naturally, with a party. Starting and finishing at Atwater, runners will enjoy the scenic riverfront course before earning their finisher's medal, custom pint glass, and complimentary brew. This can't-miss event will also feature a huge crowd to cheer you on, live music, and food trucks. Oh, and did we mention beer..? 6. Start a New Holiday Tradition with Mom May 14th | Ann Arbor, MI | 8:00 a.m. My Mom always encouraged an active, outdoor lifestyle for my brothers and I. Long before I ever had aspirations towards long-distance running , my dear mother all but forced me to run a few miles each day in order for me to get a less-than-fit middle schooler in-shape for my upcoming football and hockey tryouts. Mother truly knew best, even if my profusely-sweating younger self vehemently disagreed. A few decades later, I can properly thank and celebrate her by signing us both up for a special Mother's Day 5K race: the Mother's Day Time to Teal Run in Downtown Ann Arbor . Beyond representing another holiday 5K tradition to add the list, this event both celebrates the incredible women in our lives AND raises awareness for ovarian cancer. A portion of registration fees also support the mission and operations of the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance , so you (and mom) will truly be running for a cause. Photo courtesy of Challenge Detroit 7. Hike for Freedom at the Human Trafficking Resource Fair May 20th | Belle Isle Park | 8:00 a.m. For us at Expedition Detroit , there's never a bad reason to go for a hike. There are only good, great, or fantastic reasons. But this month, the Sparrow Freedom Project invites us all to join them on one of the most impactful and important reasons to hike the trails of Belle Isle Park: promote awareness of services available in the Metro Detroit area for survivors of human trafficking and exploitation . Starting at the Cricket Field, the purpose of the" 5k Freedom Walk " is to raise funds to support Sparrow Freedom Project's mission and help shed light on the reality of human trafficking within our region and around the world. During the event , hikers and attendees will have access to life saving information about human trafficking, including the myths and realities of this dark underworld. The event also represents an opportunity for service providers to network and build relationships with the goal of facilitating education and advocacy. Tickets to the event are available here ! 8. Find your Next Passion at O.A.K. in the Hills May 20th | Thelma Spencer Park, Rochester Hills, MI | 11:00 a.m. If May represents the "Great Awakening" of our regional outdoor ecosystem, then there's no better time to discover your next recreational passion than at the inaugural O.A.K. in the Hills event! OAK - short for "Outdoor Adventure Kickoff" - with consist of an outdoor activity extravaganza geared towards introducing attendees to the full spectrum of recreational opportunities in the Detroit region and beyond. The event will provide instruction and exhibition opportunities for hiking, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, archery, fishing, pickleball, bee keeping, puppy yoga ( we're sold )... and so much more . This fantastic AND free event is sponsored by the City of Rochester Hills, Oakland County Parks , and MooseJaw . 9. Celebrate the Aquatic Life at the Huron River Day Festival May 21st | Gallup Park, Ann Arbor, MI | 12:00 p.m. The Huron River - the central vein of the Detroit region's recreational ecosystem - is worth celebrating every day of every season . That's an undeniable fact. However, the river truly comes alive in May, both in terms of returned wildlife, wildflower blooms, and the influx of paddlers and anglers eager to experience both. In honor of the Huron, the City of Ann Arbor's Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual " Huron River Day " festival at Gallup Park! The festival will include discounted boat rentals, children's activities, river exhibits, live music, and food trucks/carts. Vendors will also be on-site providing instructions on animal-handling, fishing, Native American heritage, and - we kid you not - water squirting lessons. 10. Go Jurassic at the T-Rex Triathlon Series May 31st | Island Lake State Recreation Area | 6:00 p.m. No sport celebrates the return of warm weather quite like a triathlon . Beyond the practical impossibility of swimming in a frozen Kent Lake during winter, a triathlon forces each participant to embrace the elements as they are. The crisp cool of flowing water. The radiant heat of the trail. The warming rays of the sun. And you, the tri-sport athlete, joined by hundreds of your new best friends navigating the variables of a race designed to challenge and reward you. In our opinion, every outdoor enthusiast should complete at least one triathlon in their life. Fortunately for all of us, our friends at RF Events are hosting four this year within their " T-Rex Spring Triathlon Series ." The first event of the series - the "Stegosaurus Triathlon and Duathlon" - will be held at Island Lake State Recreation Area and consist of both a sprint triathlon (0.5 mile swim, 12.4 mile cycle, and 5K run) and duathlon (1.5 mile run, 12.4 mile cycle, and 5K run) events. All finishers will receive a custom medal and finish-line food. Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

The trees may still be blooming, but Detroit's primetime summer adventure season is just around the corner! As you finish planning which outdoor challenges will accompany your leisurely summer activities, these five best adventure challenges should absolutely be at the top of on your agenda. " The joy of living is theirs who has the heart to demand it. Life is a great adventure, and I want to say to you: accept it in such a spirit. " When in doubt, always start an adventure article with a quote from our most adventurous president, Theodore Roosevelt . We say this not only because the man's personal journals and speeches remain a never-ending well for inspirational quotations, but President Roosevelt truly lived out every meticulous word of every profoundly motivational sentence that he ever penned to paper. Despite a childhood riddled with debilitating asthma, Roosevelt went on to climb mountains, row rivers, horseback ride for days on end, backcountry hunt, lead wartime charges, commit to "polar plunges" in the Potomac River, and even hold boxing matches in the White House. President Roosevelt owed much of his exploits in life to adopting what he coined as " The Strenuous Life " - a core belief that success comes not to the person who desires "mere easy peace," but to the person who "does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph." Here's the point of this brief history lesson: mixing in a healthy dose of "strenuous" challenges to your summer vacation plans is not only a good idea, but a presidentially-sanctioned fantastic idea. Summer in the Detroit region's outdoors provides an idyllic opportunity to grow as a recreationalist, athlete, adventurer, and - as President Roosevelt would attest - successful member of society. Don't get us wrong, leisurely walks on a beach or sitting in the stands at Comerica Park are fine ways to spend your summer days. However , if you clicked on this article, then you're probably not that kind of person. We'd bet that you've got a little of Roosevelt's spirit in you; a thirst for maximizing the adventure in your life, within our natural environment, while exploring the world-class outdoor opportunities that the Detroit region has to offer. We at Expedition Detroit are stoked to have you within our ranks. Now, let's get after these 5 best adventure challenges for this summer: COMPLETE THE METROPARKS TRAIL CHALLENGE CHALLENGE : Hike, bike, run, roll, or paddle across the 13 Metroparks to hit your trail goals and earn incentives along the journey TIMELINE : May 1st - September 30th Right in time for peak trails season, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks JUST announced their brand new Trail Challenge for summer 2023! Spanning the entirety of the Metroparks' 13 park system, this challenge encourages Metropark enthusiasts to log their trail miles, enjoy the parks, stay active outdoors, and meet their trail goals on their own time and pace. Better yet, the Trail Challenge isn't just for one recreational activity - participants can hike, run, bike, skateboard, rollerblade, or paddle across the Metroparks' vast network of paved, natural, and water trails to earn their miles. Here are the specifics: once registered ( $25 ), you will receive a custom water bottle and passport with information on the Metroparks. Whenever you visit a Metropark, be sure to hit a designated Challenge Trail that features a specific "Trail Challenge" kiosk. Take a selfie at said kiosk and upload it along with your miles to the leaderboard . Each Challenge Trail that you visit earns a special badge on the online leaderboard, and at least 3 badges will further earn you a custom Metroparks insulated lunch bag. Earn all 13 badges and you will receive a 2024 Metroparks Annual Vehicle Pass so you can keep exploring the trails for another year! Photo courtesy of Future US, Inc. RUN THE G.O.A.T. TRAIL SERIES CHALLENGE : Complete 3 out of the 5 trail races within the G.O.A.T. Series TIMELINE : April 29th - November 4th Full disclosure, the G.O.A.T. Trail Series brings out the real competitive side of the Expedition Detroit team . Sponsored by our friends at RF Events , the G.O.A.T. (" Greatest Of All Time ") Series comprises of competing in at least 3 of 5 trail races, spanning from April 29th ("Trail Weekend") to November 4th (" Bonfyre Trail Fest "). Runners are placed in either the "Sprint" or "Open" categories based on event distance, and are allocated points per race based on their results. At the end of the season, all runners who qualified for the G.O.A.T. Series are eligible to win special awards if they ranked as either the top three runners (by gender) for each of the Sprint and Open categories, or they collected enough "Leader of the Herd" points based on total race results. On a personal note, I absolutely love this Series. Despite the inherent competitive nature of this challenge, RF Events has perfected the art of creating the most inclusive, supportive, and fun racing environment that I have ever experienced. Plus, any opportunity to participate in competitive sports into your 30s and beyond represents an opportunity worth seizing. The first race of the Series has already passed, but with 4 remaining there's still plenty of time to register, race, and qualify for the Series. The next trail race is on June 3rd - we'll see you there! JOIN THE EXCLUSIVE HURON104 CLUB CHALLENGE : Paddle the entire Huron River National Water Trail from Proud Lake State Recreation Area to Lake Erie Metropark TIMELINE : Throughout 2023 There's only one way to earn a coveted place on in the Huron104 Club : launching at the headwaters of Proud Lake and completing a 104 mile journey down the winding, evolving, and stunningly beautiful Huron River to Lake Erie. Along the way, you will paddle through scenic destinations like Milford , Dexter , Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Flat Rock as the trail's official "Water Trail Towns." The true allure of the water trail, however, is found in the exploration opportunities throughout the metroparks, state recreation areas, and other destinations that provide the natural scenery to its banks. The Huron104 Trail Registry lists the names of each successful adventurer that has completed at least 100 miles of the water trail within a calendar year. As of the date of this article, the registry only lists 14 names, so the exclusivity of joining this prestigious "club" provides even more emphasis to the rarity of completing this adventure challenge. Paddlers can complete the journey through either "section paddling" the trail - i.e. completing the entire water trail via intermittent sections throughout the year - or " thru paddle " via one continuous, over-night expedition. Thru paddlers should plan on utilizing the four official canoe campgrounds along the water trail: Kensington Metropark (appropriately located off of Group Camp Rd.), Island Lake State Recreation Area , Hudson Mills Metropark , and Lower Huron Metropark . Advanced registration is required for each of these campgrounds . RIDE THE MILFORD BIKE FEST'S CENTURY CHALLENGE CHALLENGE : Ride all 5 trail systems that are part of the Milford Bike Festival TIMELINE : June 3rd, 2023 June 3rd is going to be a big day in the world of Detroit outdoor recreation. As we've mentioned, the next event in the G.O.A.T. Series - " Flirt with Dirt " - will be kicking off at 7:30 a.m. sharp. But as the dust settles on Maybury State Park's trails, the action will just be heating up across five different trail systems surrounding the Milford area. And out of the hundreds of mountain bikers that will be riding as far north as Highland State Recreation Area and south as Island Lake Recreation Area, a select few will be accomplishing the crown jewel of the Milford Best Festival : the 100-mile " Century Challenge ." Sponsored by our friends at the Motor City Mountain Biking Association, the Century Challenge involves completing a continuous MTB ride that covers THE ENTIRETY of all five trail systems that are readily accessible from Downtown Milford - over a distance of at least 100 miles. These include the Milford Trail, Highland State Recreation Area, Hickory Glen, Proud Lake State Recreation Area/the Kensington Connector, and Island Lake State Recreation Area . I have biked each of these trail systems independently, and each one packs one hell of a punch. So, the thought of conquering all five in a single day...yeah, that's definitely one way to earn a post-ride beer! The Milford Bike Festival isn't just ultra rides though. At its core, the festival represents a celebration of Southeast Michigan's growing mountain biking community . The festival occurs in Milford because of the trail town's central location to five world-class single track mountain biking trails and features live music, complementary drinks, food discounts, and hundreds of your new favorite riding buddies. We'll see you there! CONQUER THE 52 HIKE CHALLENGE CHALLENGE : Complete at least 1 hike per week for a year TIMELINE : Throughout 2023 As you may have noticed by now, the beauty of these adventure challenges includes that these challenges are not mutually-exclusive . For example, paddling through several Metroparks along the Huron River National Water Trail as well as biking through Kensington Metropark during Century Challenge both count towards completing the Metroparks Trail Challenge. This final challenge is just as inclusive: conquering the virtual " 52 Hike Challenge ." For the uninitiated, the 52 Hike Challenge comprises of an annual goal to complete at least one, 1-mile hike, per week. Despite its name, participants can also complete the 52 Hike Challenge by logging their trail runs, snowshoe adventures , or even leisurely walks around your subdivision. The goal of the challenge is to gain the physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional benefits derived from consistent hiking - especially when accomplished at your own pace and in the great outdoors. The Expedition Detroit team actually completed the 52 Hike Challenge over 2022, prior to and during our initial launch of this venture. We utilized the challenge as inspiration to explore new parks, trails, and activities like snowshoeing throughout the Detroit region, including several that are new featured in our #TrailTuesday series. Better yet, we logged our "hikes" while competing in trail events like last year's G.O.A.T. Series. We could not more proudly endorse signing up for this incredible virtual challenge! Which of these outdoor adventure challenges are you planning on completing this year? Are we missing any other challenges that are already on your agenda? Let us know in the comments or contact us here for additional information!

Expedition Detroit is proud to announce that we are now leading guided hiking, backpacking, and trail running outdoor adventure trips across ELEVEN Michigan state parks near Detroit! Learn more about our trips - and how to book your next local adventure - here. "When are you guys going to start leading guided trips?" If we had a nickel for every time that we've heard that question, well, let's just say that business would be booming. Since the launch of Expedition Detroit last fall, we have sought to explore every aspect of Detroit's rapidly emerging outdoor industry. The trails, parks, ski hills, waterways, and trail towns that our recreational community flocks to. The governmental agencies, organizations, and advocacy groups that meticulously maintain our beloved outdoor spaces. The major corporations and hometown retailers that supply our expeditions. The coffee shops that fuel our adventures and breweries that host our post-trail stories. In the midst of this industry-wide exploration, we found that one critical component was largely missing: guided services . Yes, the fantastic teams at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Huron-Clinton MetroParks host excellent guided events , but these events are typically far-and-few between or have very cool, but nuanced, themes attached to them. In fact, while we were working with the DNR on aligning our online store with their " These Goods are Good for Michigan " campaign, our negotiations almost stopped dead in their tracks when we brought up the prospect of leading guided services. "Please, please tell us when you're ready to launch," the DNR representative said, "we're desperately looking for guides!" Well, friends, that day has come. Starting this month, Expedition Detroit is officially the largest supplier of commercial guided services in state parks throughout Michigan. Better yet, and keeping to our core ethos, we are solely providing guided hiking, backpacking, and trail running services in the following 11 state parks and recreation areas throughout the Detroit region: Belle Isle Park , Brighton Recreation Area , Highland Recreation Area , Holly Recreation Area , Island Lake Recreation Area , Maybury State Park , Pinckney Recreation Area , Pontiac Lake Recreation Area , Proud Lake Recreation Area , Seven Lakes State Park , and Waterloo Recreation Area . Here's everything that you should know about our guided trips : WHAT GUIDED TRIPS WILL EXPEDITION DETROIT OFFER? We will initially be offering guided hiking, backpacking, and trail running trips. For hiking , trip participants should expect a fantastic day hiking experience across the most beautiful and sought-after trails in the Detroit region. If you're a fan of our #TrailTuesday Series, then you will recognize and thoroughly enjoy exploring several of the trails that you've read about. With our backpacking and trail running services, we enhance the exploration factor by including instructional and coaching elements to your experience . For backpacking , our guides will not only lead your trip while providing tips on pacing, water intake, and proper form, but also will hold instructional sessions on gear assembly and utilization, proper packing technique, wilderness safety, Leave No Trace principles , and any other questions that aspiring, new, or growing backpackers might have. Our trail running services take the coaching element to a whole new level. Each of our running guides will have ample running coaching qualifications to assist you with preparing for your next race or reaching fitness goals. The best part? You will simultaneously reap the physical and mental health benefits of exploring the Detroit region's best trails while being led by a knowledgable and experienced guide. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BOOKING A GUIDED TRIP WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT? Let's start here by affirming a core belief of our guided services operations - your recreation time is sacred . We know firsthand that every hour spent on the trail is earned , not given. As such, we have designed our entire guided services with one goal in mind: Maximizing the value of your experience in the Detroit region's outdoors. This goal starts with your safety in mind. Each of our guides are Wilderness First Aid certified and carry industry-standard gear in the unlikely event of a medical emergency. We firmly believe that safety starts with knowledge, so our guides are required to complete mandatory "trail awareness hikes" prior to leading a guided trip. Each guided route has also been independently reviewed and confirmed by the Michigan DNR. Our guides will also comprise of accomplished outdoor recreationists resulting from years of academic, professional, or field experience. From backcountry trips up north, out west, or around the world, to knowing our state parks like the back of their hands, our guides have the outdoor experience to successfully and safely guide you along each of our featured trails. With our safety plan and qualifications in place, the main reason why you should book your next guided outdoor adventure with Expedition Detroit is our unrelenting passion for Detroit's outdoors . Each of our guides have experienced the transformative power of our region's great outdoors - the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits obtained only by time spent in nature - and they can't wait to share their local knowledge and passion with you. To further evidence this, we have aligned our operations to financially support the Michigan DNR's efforts towards protecting, maintaining, and expanding our state's parks, trails, and waterways. Expedition Detroit's slogan is that the Detroit region is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting . Each of our guides believe this to their core, and you should expect this belief to emanate throughout your experience on our pristine trails! HOW DO I BOOK A GUIDED TRIP? Head over to our " Guided Expeditions " page here at ExpeditionDetroit.com! Offered are organized by activity, experience difficulty, and price. Clicking on any particular trail will provide you with additional information on the trail, as well as a satellite image of the route map that includes mileage and elevation gain. With regard to pricing, we have an established sliding scale that reflects trail length, trail difficulty, and the chosen activity. For example, the shorter hikes on "Easy"-rated trails are priced the lowest, while long trail runs on "Advanced"-rated trails are priced the highest. All trip prices and other information are available online. Please note that guided trips may only be reserved in advance and online . There is also a mandatory waiver that all trip participants must sign online as part of the booking process. WILL ANY DESTINATIONS BE REGULARLY FEATURED? Yes! We are planning on conducting weekly, consistent trips at specific parks. Currently, we will be hosting a weekly Monday morning 5K trail run at Maybury State Park titled " Maybury Mondays , " as well as a weekly Thursday evening hike (and occasional backpacking trip) also at Maybury. Other weekly scheduled trips that we are in the process of finalizing will include Friday evening hikes at Proud Lake Recreation Area and Sunday afternoon introductory trail running and hiking at Belle Isle Park . While our regular schedule for guided trips will vary between the parks, we are planning for Saturdays to feature one specific park during all-day, multi-trip offerings. Our first Saturday feature will occur at Island Lake Recreation Area this Saturday, June 17th , kicking off with a 9:00 a.m. trail run at the Yellow Loop Trail , a 1 p.m. hike also along the Yellow Loop Trail , and a 5 p.m. backpacking trip along the Hickory Ridge Trail . Wednesday evenings will round out our initial weekly trip offerings, alternating between a guided hike or trail run at featured trails across our state parks. TOMORROW , June 14th , will kick off our initial Wednesday evening hike at Highland Recreation Area's famous Haven Hill Loop trail ! DO YOU PLAN ON EXPANDING YOUR GUIDED SERVICES? To summarize, 1,000% yes . These initial services are intended largely to fill a critical gap in Detroit's outdoor recreation industry - i.e., the virtually complete absence of any guided services. Beyond eventually expanding our backpacking services to overnight trips, we also plan on increasing our platform to include guided mountain biking , kayaking , canoe camping , bikepacking, paved trail cycling, and even hunting and fishing expeditions . We also plan on expanding into other state parks throughout the Detroit, especially those in the northeast and southeast sections of the Metro Detroit area. We also fully intend on hiring additional guides in the near future! As outlined in our article, each guide should be at least Wilderness First Aid and Leave No Trace certified. Aspiring guides should also have a broad range of backcountry experience, local expertise, and a palpable passion for Detroit's outdoors. If you or someone you know might be interested in a part or full-time position as a guide, please CONTACT US ! As always, we would love to hear your ideas and feedback regarding every aspect of the Expedition Detroit platform - especially regarding our guided trips. We are a community-driven venture aiming to maximize value for you, so your thoughts are worth their weight in gold for us. We're especially thankful for our subscribers, we get special discounts on both our online store AND our guided trips. These codes come out in our monthly Newsletter, so subscribe today to get yours next month! Thank you for your continuing support of Expedition Detroit . We can't wait to see you at the trailhead!