Despite its nearly 150 history and status as "Michigan's Most Visited State Park," Detroit's Belle Isle Park contains a wealth of recreational opportunities that most visitors miss. Here's your guide to experiencing the best of the "Hidden Gems" of Belle Isle's outdoors. Over 5 million annual visitors. The 2nd-most visited State Park in the entire United States. Those descriptors aren't typically associated with the word "Trailblaze," which by definition means "to be the first person or group to do something new or go somewhere, making it easier for others to follow." And yet, as you paddle through the serene waters of Lake Okonoka, hike through dense brush to reach the Blue Heron Lagoon peninsula, or cycle along the flawlessly-new Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Trail, the sensation of "trailblazing" does reach the soul. Even on an island that has witnessed every nuance of Detroit's history, dating back to pre-European arrival to the Great Lakes when the Anishinaabe peoples named it "Swan Island." As 147 years and 5 million annual visitors can attest, no visit to Detroit is complete without crossing the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle Park. That being said, just like visits to our National Parks, most visitors to Belle Isle don't venture further than a few hundred yards from their parked cars or main paved viewpoints. Translation: most of Belle Isle's stunning 982 acres, teeming with wildlife, trails, forests, waterways, historic monuments, renown cultural institutions, and stunning vistas, remain unexplored by the masses. This article is your guide to disrupting that statistic. Here, we outline three recommended "adventures" for exploring Michigan's most visited State Park on a deeper level. Whether by pedal, paddle, or at your own pedestrian pace, Belle Isle's hidden gems are ready for your discovery along a more active itinerary. Okay, Trailblaze readers - let's go deeper into Belle Isle's outdoors to uncover its "Hidden Gem" trail experiences that most visitors miss (until now) - starting with a look back at how Belle Isle came to be Detroit's most beloved outdoor destination. CHECK OUT EPISODE 5 OF TRAILBLAZE DETROIT NOW! Artistic depiction of boating on Belle Isle's Grand Canal in the 1900s Belle Isle's Beginnings: How Hog Island Transformed into America's Most Beautiful Park In 1882, a lone boat docked alongside Belle Isle's far western edge, near the area that Detroiters would one day bestow the name "Sunset Point." There was hardly anything romantic about Belle Isle at that juncture of its history - for most of the island's recorded history, its utility had ranged from prisoner of war camp during the American Revolutionary War and open-air holding pen for the livestock of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, later incorporated as the City of Detroit. Thus, the mosquito-ridden marshland of an island gained its first name: Île aux Cochons, or "Hog Island." Even with Hog Island's prophetic re-branding to "Belle Isle" at a Fourth of July picnic in 1845, the City of Detroit did not take any meaningful action towards improving the island's aesthetics until its acquisition of Belle Isle in 1879 for the purpose of building a new city park. And by "park," the city's urban planners meant the grandest park that the western world had ever seen, even surpassing the grandeur of New York City's celebrated Central Park. As such, there was only one man for the job: Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed landscape architect that designed Central Park. The City of Detroit commissioned Olmsted for the job in 1881, and he made his first landing on Belle Isle that fateful morning in 1882. Historic photo of Central Avenue in the early 1900s Olmsted and the City of Detroit clashed almost immediately with regard to their visions of Belle Isle. To remedy the marshy land forming on the low-lying island, Olmsted proposed a system of underground pipes that would lead into canals, which had a dual purpose of being used for pleasure boating and fishing. Olmsted also hoped to capitalize on the island’s existing wooded area to serve as the park’s central attraction, thereby preserving Belle Isle as a natural refuge for Detroit's growing urban population. The City of Detroit, on the other hand, wanted Belle Isle to showcase the grandiose ambitions of their emerging city. Monuments and cultural institutions like the James Scott Memorial Fountain, Belle Isle Aquarium, Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse, Belle Isle Boat House, Belle Isle Casino, and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory would constitute the core aspects of the park's infrastructure, complete with broad avenues and ample picnicking grounds. The two parties compromised by Olmsted promptly quitting the project. However, aspects of Olmsted's original design for Belle Isle were incorporated into its eventual design. The island's vast canals and protected marshlands and forests owe their construction and conservation to Olmsted's largely-discarded vision. Over the subsequent 150 years, Belle Isle's fortunes - and misfortunes - remained acutely tied to those of the City of Detroit. At its height in the early 20th century, Belle Isle provided a premier urban oasis, featuring grand architecture, bustling canoe canals, and vibrant recreational attractions for Detroit residents. Conversely, the financial woes of the city in the later 20th century led to decades of Belle Isle's neglect and infrastructural deterioration. Paddlers on Belle Isle's canals in 1963; photo courtesy of the Detroit Free Press Now, nearly halfway through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' 30-year lease of the park, Belle Isle is experiencing a renaissance in terms of both recreation opportunities and cultural institutions. Private and public collaborations, spearheaded by the Michigan DNR and Belle Isle Conservancy, have raised millions of dollars towards restoring the Belle Isle's natural areas, public utilities, museums, and landmarks. In fact, Belle Isle is the closest that it's ever been to realizing Olmsted's original vision of a natural oasis for Detroiters and visitors alike to explore and enjoy. Let's start exploring Belle Isle's rugged trails now. Spring at Blue Heron Lagoon on Belle Isle HIKE BELLE ISLE: Exploring the Blue Heron Lagoon and Lighthouse Trail System 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 Having led guided hiking tours along Belle Isle's natural eastern shoreline for over 3 years now, it astounds me how few visitors to the park - especially locals - have ever hiked those trails. Of all of the "hidden gems" to be discussed in this article, the trail system surrounding the Blue Heron Lagoon and William Livingstone Lighthouse is far and away the most critical for experiencing the natural beauty of Belle Isle. Which is exactly why your next adventure at Belle Isle Park should start there: at the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Trailhead. Even before exiting your vehicle, you will know exactly where your adventure on Belle Isle's Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon trail begins. Opened 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. One World ... Under Michigan Stars monument For the next 0.3 miles, you will follow Belle Isle's southern shoreline in an eastern direction, oscillating between a paved and natural trail towards the William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse. This stretch will provide your best opportunity for catching glimpses of freighters passing by, as well as glimpses into Canada. Keep your eyes peeled for migratory birds, especially bald eagles that frequent Belle Isle throughout the year. 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 hike 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. Blue Heron Lagoon is also the masterpiece of a multi-million dollar habitat restoration effort that included reconnecting the lagoon to the Detroit River, building a small peninsula, and planting native trees and plants along the shoreline. 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, endangered Eastern Fox Snakes, to box turtles basking in the sun along the lagoon’s edge. 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. EXPLORE BELLE ISLE LIKE A LOCAL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT BIKE BELLE ISLE: A Panoramic Cycling Tour Along the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Trail Total Distance: 5.8 miles Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Parking available Ralph Wilson Gateway trailhead; Michigan Recreation Passport required for entry to Belle Isle Park Iron. Belle. Trail. Those are three words - and one 2,000 mile trail system - that every outdoor travel enthusiast should know before visiting Michigan, and especially the City of Detroit. Although the Iron Belle Trail crisscrosses the entirety of Michigan's outdoor adventure destinations, covering world-famous destinations like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Mackinac Island, and the Porcupine Mountains, its official southern gateway is located on none other than Belle Isle. In fact, the "One World...Under Michigan Stars" monument is technically the 0.0 mile marker for the entire trail. Fortunately for visitors to Belle Isle Park, you can readily explore the opening chapter of the Iron Belle Trail odyssey on two wheels while biking the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Trail loop around the island. The brand-new, two-way bike path opened in September of 2025, so the trail is equipped with world-class amenities, built with top-grade materials, and provides an idyllic route for discovering the best of Belle Isle's cultural gems and outdoor destinations. Starting from the Ralph C. Wilson Trailhead, here is a summary the en-route destinations that you will experience along the ride: The Belle Isle Nature Center: Located on 5 acres in Belle Isle Park, the Nature Center provides free admission and outdoor-based programming to schools, families, and community groups. Belle Isle Beach: Overlooking the Detroit skyline, this urban beach provides a perfect escape on a hot day. Sunset Point: Easily one of the best views in Michigan, Belle Isle's westernmost tip provides stunning views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines - especially at sunset. James Scott Memorial Fountain: Designed by Cass Gilbert, the stunning fountain is often referred to as "the jewel of Belle Isle" - despite being a monument to a man historically remembered as a prankster, womanizer, and scoundrel. Belle Isle Casino: The historic dancing and gathering hall reopened on March 13, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of a $7.3 million restoration that took several years to complete. Nancy Brown Peace Carillon Tower: Funded during the Great Depression by pennies from a newspaper advice columnist's fan base, the bell tower on Belle Isle rose during the early days of World War II despite being dedicated to peace. Dossin Great Lakes Maritime Museum: The museum is dedicated to showcasing the story of the Great Lakes, with a special emphasis on Detroit’s role in regional and national maritime history. Belle Isle Aquarium: Designed by Albert Kahn and opened in 1904, the Belle Isle Aquarium is the oldest aquarium in North America and features a variety of freshwater fish from the world's great lakes and rivers, as well as colorful marine fish and corals. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory: Also designed by Albert Kahn, the Conservatory is the oldest continually-running conservatory in the United States. The Conservatory is divided into various distinct sections and provides visitors with a unique, up-close look at different types of flora and fauna. Forgot your bike at home? No problem! Detroit-based MoGo Bikeshare rentals has several bike-rental stations located on and near Belle Isle Park, including the Belle Isle Casino, Belle Isle Beach, the Conservatory, and just across the MacArthur Bridge at Gabriel Richard Park. PADDLE BELLE ISLE: Kayaking the Lakes and Canals of Olmsted's Original Vision Belle Isle Park has changed radically during its 300+ year recorded history, but during every phase of its development there has been one enduring element of the island's character: its water. Just like the entirety of the Great Lakes region, Belle Isle's waterways have defined how civilizations have utilized, engaged with, and defined the island. Native American tribes paddled to the island as a strategic stop along maritime trading routes. Early colonists viewed the insulating factor of the surrounding Detroit River as a means to protect livestock from hungry wolves. Olmsted envisioned a system of canals to drain mosquito-infested marshes and provide opportunities for recreation. Even the Michigan DNR has recently utilized the island's waterways for natural habitat restoration along Blue Heron Lagoon and Lake Okonoka. Stated differently, this final recommended adventure - paddling Belle Isle Park's lakes and canals - represents the most traditional and organic method of experiencing Belle Isle. One shared by Anishinaabe traders, French settlers, and American recreationists alike. Here are recommended routes and amenities for paddling Belle Isle: Blue Heron Lagoon and Lake Okonoka Beginner-friendly, flatwater paddling through Blue Heron Lagoon and Lake Okonoka. Accessible launches are located near Woodside Drive and across from the Detroit Yacht Club. Belle Isle Circumnavigation within the Detroit River This is an advanced, roughly 7-mile loop around the entire island via the Detroit River. Strong river currents and commercial boat traffic mean this full loop requires prior paddling experience. Kayak and Paddle Board Rental Options Riverside Kayak Connection ("RKC") Adventures and Simple Adventures provide hourly rental options from the Flynn Memorial Pavilion. Rental location provides immediate access to Lake Tacoma and connecting canals for beginner friendly, flatwater paddling. Guided Paddle Tours Detroit River Sports provides a 3-hour "Belle Isle Paddle" tour that leaves from their location and visits Blue Heron Lagoon and other on-island locations. Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit. The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them. Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more.

Fall means primetime in Detroit's outdoors - especially for the Michigan hunting community ready for crisp mornings and cool evenings in the woods! Here is Expedition Detroit's breakdown of the game, dates, equipment, and special regulations for the 2026 Michigan hunting season. Michigan hunters, start your engines: September is BACK and the woods are ready for your arrival! Before trekking out into the woods, we always encourage both seasoned and fresh hunters to pause for a moment and review the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' annual fishing guide and hunting summaries. These summaries are truly invaluable resources for reviewing recent changes to DNR regulations, restrictions, and procedures, such as last year's mandatory deer harvest reporting requirements. Regardless if you’re a veteran woodsman or as green as hunters come, reading through the 2026 Michigan Hunting Regulations Summary is a worthwhile investment prior to heading out to your stand. Especially for this year...our friends at the Natural Resources Commission were busy this season drafting up several landmark changes to decades-old hunting regulations. That's where we step in. Ladies and gentlemen, meet our fourth annual Michigan Hunting Cheatsheet: Expedition Detroit's curated summary of the most important information for hunters within the Detroit region - UPDATED FOR THE 2026 FALL SEASON. Whitetail Deer When: October 1st - November 14th for early archery, November 15th - 30th for regular firearm, and December 1st - January 1st for late archery. NEW: Muzzleloader season in the lower peninsula has been eliminated; instead, hunters can use all legal firearms to harvest any legal deer from December 4th - 6th. There is also a late antlerless firearm season open on public and private lands from December 7th, 2026 - January 1st, 2027. NEW: The extended late antlerless deer season and the January archery season have been eliminated. Hunting Equipment: Compound or crossbow all season (although must wear "hunter's orange" clothing during firearm seasons); firearms during various phases of season. NEW: The "limited firearms deer zone" has been eliminated. Beginning Sept. 12, 2026, hunters can use all legal firearms across the Lower Peninsula; be sure to check your local ordinances regarding which firearms are legal. Where: Private or public lands within southeast Michigan. Limit: 1 per tag. Licenses Required: Base License and either Deer License or Deer Combo License. Waterfowl (Ducks, Coots, Mergansers, and Geese) When: Geese: September 1st - 30th, October 17th - December 13th, December 26th - January 3rd, and February 6th - 15th. Ducks, Coots, and Mergansers: October 17th - December 13th and December 26th - 27th. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Limits: Ducks: Daily limit is 6, season-long possession is 18. Coots: Daily limit is 15, season-long possession is 45. Mergansers: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 15. Dark Geese (Canada, brant and white-fronted): Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 15. Light Geese (snow, blue and Ross’s): Daily limit is 20, season-long possession is 60. Licenses Required: Base License and Waterfowl Hunting License. Physical federal duck stamps purchased and received at a post office must be signed by the hunter. Electronic federal duck stamps are valid July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027, and do not need to be signed by the hunter. More information: 2026 Waterfowl Hunting Regulations Summary. Wild Turkey When: September 15th - November 14th. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun, crossbow, or compound bow. Where: Private or public lands within within Southeastern Michigan; however, Monroe County is closed to fall turkey hunting. Limit: One bearded or beardless turkey, any sex, per tag. Licenses Required: Base License and Fall Turkey License. More information: 2026 Fall Turkey Hunting Summary Pheasant When: October 20th - November 14th and December 1st - January 1st (male only). Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 2, season-long possession is 4. Licenses Required: Base License and Pheasant License (required only for hunters 18 years of age and older hunting on public lands). More Information: 2026 Small Game Hunting Guide. Quail When: October 20th - November 14th. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. At Highland Recreation Area, quail may be harvested only by field trial participants in the field trial areas on days with authorized field trials. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10. Licenses Required: Base License. Ruffed Grouse When: September 15th - November 14th and December 1st - January 1st. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 3, season-long possession is 6. Licenses Required: Base License. Fox and Gray Squirrel When: September 15th - March 31st. Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), shotgun, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10. Licenses Required: Base License. Furbearer (Coyote, Fox, Weasel, Raccoon, Skunk, and Opossum) When: Coyote and Fox: October 15th, 2026 - March 1st, 2027. Raccoon: October 1st, 2026 - March 1st, 2027. Opossum, Skunk, and Weasel: Year-round. Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), other firearm, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on public and private lands - Unit C regulations apply to the Detroit region. Bag Limits: No limit. Licenses Required: Base License and Furbearer License. Opossum, skunk, and weasel may be harvested year-round, statewide with a valid Michigan fur harvesting license. Coyote, opossum, raccoon, skunk and weasel can be harvested year-round, using all legal hunting and trapping methods for those species, on private property and without a license when doing or physically present where they could imminently cause damage. Coyote, fox, opossum, and raccoon can be hunted at night. More Information: 2026 Furbearer Harvest Summary Small Game (Rabbit, Red Squirrel, and Woodchuck) When: September 15th - March 31st (rabbit); year-round (red squirrel and woodchuck). Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), firearm, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10 for rabbit; no limit for red squirrel and woodchuck. Licenses Required: Base License. Cottontail rabbit, red squirrel, and woodchuck may be taken year-round on private property without a license when about to cause damage. Small Birds (Crow, Feral Pigeons, Starling, and House Sparrows) When: August 1st - September 30th and February 1st - March 31st for crow; year-round for other birds. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: No limit. Licenses Required: Base License. Crows, Starlings, and House Sparrows may be taken by a property owner or designee without a license if doing or about to do damage on private property. Pest Species: Armadillo, Russian Boar (INVASIVE), and Porcupine When: Year-round Hunting Equipment: Any lawful firearm, compound bow, or crossbow. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: No limit; Russian Boar but must be reported to Michigan.gov/RussianBoar or by calling 517-336-1928. Licenses Required: Base License. Why Hunting Matters for Michigan For some readers, this inclusion of a Michigan hunting article on our platform may have come as a surprise. The truth is, ethical hunting has represented a cornerstone aspect of Expedition Detroit since its inception almost one year ago. Fall's return to the northern hemisphere means the inclusion of more hunting-specific content, which we understand may be jarring to some readers who subscribed after reading one of our popular backpacking or camping articles. If you find yourself in that camp - i.e., someone who is neutral or somewhat against hunting - then allow us a moment to explain why we view ethical hunting as a critical component of Michigan's outdoor recreation ecosystem. Actually, its most important component. To summarize, Southeast Michigan has a serious ecological problem stemming largely from its overpopulation of deer. Car accidents involving deer have risen 6.6% since 2012, making Michigan the second leading state in the U.S. for deer-car accidents. Crop damage on Michigan farms attributable to deer has risen 59.6% since 2014. Milder winters across the Great Lakes region have allowed more deer to survive and reproduce in the spring and early summer. Bovine tuberculosis and chronic wasting disease are spreading throughout herds within the Lower Peninsula. What exacerbates these problems most for the DNR, however, is that fewer and fewer Michiganders are heading into the woods each year. In the 1990s, led by baby boomers, Michigan had 900,000 deer hunters in the woods. By 2030, the DNR expects about half as many. Beyond the physical detrimental effects of less hunters, the DNR and Michigan's tourism industry has relied on the roughly $2.3 billion in economic impact derived from hunting - a valuable revenue stream that state officials fear will diminish rapidly in the coming years. Yes, unethical and irresponsible hunters absolutely deserve the scorn of today's mainstream outdoor community. That being said, hunting has a valuable ecological, economic, and cultural position in our state's outdoor heritage. Michigan needs hunters more now than ever in its history, and we at Expedition Detroit are proud to advocate for the development and proliferation of ethical, lawful, and science-backed hunting. We hope that you'll join us in the woods this season! GEAR UP FOR THE FALL 2026 HUNTING SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! This cheatsheet is intended only as a high-level and supplemental reference to the Michigan Hunting Summaries. The summaries linked to above include a broad range of very helpful and instructive information, such as legal shooting hours, species-specific limitations (e.g., ducks and other waterfowl), information on lawful stands and baiting practices, and penalties for violations. Any further inquiries regarding applicable rules and regulations should be directed to the Michigan Hunting Regulations Summary or DNR at 517-284-WILD. You can CLICK HERE to purchase any of the requisite licenses listed above. Best of luck this season!

Happy Fall, Detroit! These warmer days coupled with crisper nights mean that the BEST RECREATIONAL SEASON for experiencing Detroit has returned in its full glory. As you start to plan your perfect fall in southeast Michigan's outdoors, here are our "8 'Can't Miss' Outdoor Experiences near Detroit" for you to enjoy this season! The "Great Debate" is settled: Fall is the best season for outdoor recreation near Detroit. If you're skeptical at that hot take, please hear us out. Fall kicks off by carrying all of summer's "peak season" momentum into September. We're talking open campgrounds, backpacking and canoe camping trips, dry mountain biking and trail running trails, and warm days for amazing kayaking. However, we'd argue that September actually improves on summer recreation by delivering smaller crowds, less bugs, more stars, and crisp "campfire-ready nights." So basically extended summer, but better. October's arrival is where fall truly runs off with Detroit's "best season" title. Beyond hunting's return, October means world-class running competitions, halloween-themed recreational events, harvest festivals, and enjoying generations' worth of fall outdoor traditions. Our stunning parks, trails, and waterways show off their brilliance in autumn's full foliage. November closes out fall's recreational calendar with a literal and figurative "Bang!" November 15th is an official-unofficial holiday in Michigan, marking the start of whitetail deer firearm season. Trail running season wraps up with its closing acts, followed closely by a plethora of "Turkey Trot" races. And - if we're lucky - our "Big Four Ski Resorts" may open for business before the winter months kick in. Yeah...we happily rest our case. From kayaking to potentially skiing, the next three months will bless us with the full spectrum of Detroit's outdoor ecosystem. While that may seem overwhelming at first, we've taken the initiative to curate the most anticipated experiences that we are most looking forward to enjoying this Fall. So let's get into it! Here are Expedition Detroit's "8 'Can't Miss' Outdoor Experiences near Detroit" for inspiring your Fall 2026 adventures. 1. CYCLE FOR CIDER MILLS Destination: Paint Creek Trail | Orion Township, MI When to Experience: All Fall Recommended Adventure: Cycling the Paint Creek Trail to Several Cider Mills Grab your flannel and pump up your tires, we're going cycling for cider mills! The Detroit region is uniquely blessed with two fall recreational staples: a vast trail network lined with spectacular fall colors and postcard-ready apple orchards featuring quintessential cider mills. Hear us out - why not combine a perfect fall bike ride with a stop (or three) at a cider mill? If this sounds like your perfect fall weekend, then get ready to gear up and head over to Oakland County's "Paint Creek Trail"! Heading out from the Pure Michigan Trail Town of Orion Township, the 10-mile Paint Creek Trail will guide you past Bald Mountain State Recreation Area and several nature preserves to the Goodison Cider Mill and aptly-named Paint Creek Cider Mill. But wait, there's more cycling and cider ahead of you. Once you're fueled up with ample cider and donuts, keep the fall adventures moving by continuing east on the Clinton River Trail towards Bloomer Park. Once in Bloomer Park, follow the marked biking path towards trail marker #24, leading towards Yates Park. As you may have guessed, the famous Yates Cider Mill in Rochester Hills awaits your arrival. PLAN YOUR CYCLING, KAYAKING, AND DONUT-FILLED ADVENTURE WITH TRAILBLAZE DETROIT! 2. HIKE FOR ULTIMATE FALL COLORS Destination: Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney, MI When to Experience: Mid-Late October Recommended Adventure: Hiking the Crooked Lake Trail In years past, the Expedition Detroit team set out on a nearly impossible mission. We challenged ourselves to identify the best trail in the Detroit region for experiencing peak colors. A wonderfully brutal task. Countless hours of research and field testing later, we finally decided on a winner: the "Crooked Lake Trail" at Pinckney State Recreation Area! This 4.4 mile loop trail is a year-round favorite for hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, and cross-country skiers, although it abruptly bursts with colors once October gets going. Beyond the trail's celebrated foliage, its surrounding wildlife actively sharply increases as the temperatures begin to dip. To enjoy the full experience, be sure to book a campsite at the Crooked Lake Rustic Campground. In honor of fall's glorious return, we're excited to launch a MASSIVE increase in our guided day hikes along the Crooked Lake Trail! Expedition Detroit day hiking trips are perfect for hikers of all experience levels. We only ask that you arrive with a wide-eyed sense of adventure and excitement to discover Metro Detroit's world-class trails - especially the Crooked Lake Trail. RESERVE YOUR ULTIMATE FALL COLORS HIKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Photo courtesy of the Detroit Free Press Marathon (via Facebook) 3. FINISH MARATHON SEASON ON AN INTERNATIONAL SCALE Destination: Detroit Riverfront | Detroit, MI When to Experience: October 18, 2026 Recommended Adventure: Running the Detroit Free Press Marathon Ladies and gentlemen, lace up those sneakers: primetime racing season in Detroit is BACK! Regardless of whether you're a road or trail runner, fall's return means that our region's preeminent running events are back in the recreational spotlight. The Ann Arbor Marathon kick's off the season on October 4th, followed on October 18th by the crown jewel of southeast Michigan's outdoor events calendar: the Detroit Free Press Marathon. While either of these marathons will inevitably represent the seasonal finish line after months of grueling training, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention a few other key fall races: Crooked Lakes Trail Run | October 10th | Independence Oaks Park, Clarkston, MI Wicked Halloween Run | October 25th | Maybury State Park, Northville, MI Bonfyre Trail Fest | November 7th | Waterloo State Recreation Area, Chelsea, MI Detroit Turkey Trot | November 26th | Downtown Detroit, MI Milford Gobbler Gallop | November 28th | Downtown Milford, MI TRAIN FOR RACING SEASON YEAR-ROUND WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 4. EMBRACE SPOOKY SEASON ON A HAUNTED HIKE Destination: Belle lsle Park | Detroit, MI When to Experience: All October Recommended Adventure: Hiking Belle Isle's Lighthouse and Blue Heron Loops Detroit remains undefeated as one of America's top destinations for Halloween-themed activities. From haunted hayrides to paranormal tours, the annual Monster's Ball, and a season's worth of Halloween 5Ks, experiencing "Spooky Season" in and around Detroit is a bucket list-worthy adventure. Last year, team Expedition Detroit embraced Halloween in our outdoors by researching the best "Haunted Hiking" destinations throughout our region. Lo and behold, one of our most popular guided day trips - Belle Isle's "Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon Loops" - prominently features two such macabre destinations! In honor of Spooky Season's return, we will also be increasing our guided day trip offerings not only to Belle Isle Park, but also Highland Recreation Area's "Haven Hill Loop." The Haven Hill Loop features a special, Expedition Detroit-exclusive encounter with the ruins of the Ford Family's hilltop "wilderness estate." Do paranormal spirits still haunt the islands of the Detroit River or forest surrounding Haven Hill? There's only one way to find out...if you dare! EXPLORE BELLE ISLE PARK THIS SPOOKY SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 5. GO ON THE HUNT FOR CONSERVATION Destination: Highland State Recreation Area | Highland, Michigan When to Experience: October through November Recommended Adventure: Whitetail Deer Hunting in Michigan State Recreation Areas If you're looking forward to the full menu of incredible outdoor experiences coming down the recreational pipeline this fall, then we have one small ask of you: please buy a Base License from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Why? The sale of hunting and fishing licenses remains a core fiscal component of several interwoven business models. From supercharging the Michigan DNR's financial capacity to supporting thousands of small businesses, the long-term viability of hunting remains a vital economic interest. If you are already planning on getting out in the woods and enjoying one of several hunting seasons that kick off this fall, then you are obviously planning on purchasing at least a Base License and actively supporting the Michigan DNR's conservation efforts. But even if hunting is not your main cup of tea for getting outside this autumn, we still encourage you to passively support conservation by purchasing a Base License. Best $11.00 you'll ever spend. Ethical hunting is essential for the longevity of Detroit's recreational ecosystem. There's no way to sugar coat it, and we at Expedition Detroit are proud to support the Michigan DNR and Michigan Wildlife Council in their ambitions to expand hunter and angler education and engagement. For more information on the upcoming the Fall 2026 Hunting Season, check out Expedition Detroit's 2026 Fall Hunting Cheatsheet. GEAR UP FOR HUNTING SEASON WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 6. PADDLE THE "DARK SIDE" OF DETROIT'S CANAL DISTRICT Destination: Jefferson-Chalmers Canal District | Detroit, MI When to Experience: September - October Recommended Adventure: Joining a sunset or "Dark Side of the Canals" kayaking tour with Detroit River Sports The days may be getter shorter - but that's no reason to retire your paddling adventures for the season. This fall, don't miss the opportunity to join our #ExpeditionParner Detroit River Sports on a top-rated kayaking tour of Detroit's famous "Canal District" and Belle Isle Park! We're especially excited to join DRS' seasonal "Dark Side of the Canals" tour, which sets up around dusk and returns well after dark. The route spends time in the canals as well as on the Detroit River and exploring Greyhaven Island. All kayaks are lit up with safety lights and colorful string lights to set the campfire storytelling mood. Your tour guide will share stories of indigenous legends and folklore, tales of tragedy and misfortune, a curse, a haunting or two and some spooky Detroit staples. Perhaps And yes, bonfire will be waiting for guests to warm up by upon return. Here's more information regarding Detroit River Sports' "End-of-Season" Tours: Schedule: 6PM on most Friday and Saturday evenings. Experience Required: Some experience is required as the majority of the paddle is after dark. A warm layer or windbreaker and waterproof gloves are recommended. Duration: About 2 hours including check-in, gear distribution, safety talk, and boat loading. Minor Paddlers: Children under the age of 12 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Safety Requirements: All participants must wear a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on a Detroit River Sports Tour (provided by DRS Team). EXPEDITION+ SUBSCRIBERS SAVE 15% ON SIGN-UP FEES! 7. CONQUER THE "FIVE SUMMITS" WITH PEAK VISIBILITY Destination: Five Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas When to Experience: Throughout November Recommended Adventure: Hike to the top of each of the "5 Summits" after the final leaves drop - but before snowfall - for peak visibility conditions In his 2022 hit song "Stick Season," Noah Kahan coined a name for winter's shoulder seasons in the northwoods. If you're unfamiliar with the term or song, "Stick Season" refers to the periods on both the forefront and backend of winter where the trees neither have leaves nor snow. They're just...sticks. Stick Season in the early spring means mud, i.e. less than ideal hiking or mountain biking conditions. In the late fall, however, Stick Season means great hiking conditions paired with UNMATCHED visibility in the woods. Put differently, the gradual loss of fall colors means the incremental gain in wildlife spotting, land scouting, and unmatched views from the Detroit region's highest points. For Team Expedition Detroit, we will be taking our late-fall hiking talents to each of the "Five Summits" across the Detroit region. We wrote an article earlier this year popularizing those high points - and have a new "Trail Challenge" surrounding them in the works for 2027 (stay tuned). For the TL;DR, here are each of the Five Summits for reference: Wayne Hill: elevation 990 feet | Maybury State Park, Northville, Michigan Prospect Hill: elevation 1,150 feet | Waterloo State Recreation Area, Chelsea, Michigan Pontiac Lake Peak: elevation 1,154 feet | Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area, White Lake, Michigan Mount Kanzer: elevation 1,160 feet | Highland State Recreation Area, Highland, Michigan Kerr Hill: elevation 1,229 feet | Ortonville State Recreation Area, Metamora, Michigan COMMEMORATE YOUR COMPLETION OF THE "5 SUMMITS TRAIL CHALLENGE" WITH A LIMITED EDITION PATCH! 8. CROSS THE GORDIE HOWE INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE Destination: Gordie Howe International Bridge | Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario When to Experience: Anytime this Fall Recommended Adventure: Cross the bridge from the Iron Belle Trail to the Trans Canada Trail (and back) FINALLY! After years of delays due to both infrastructure logistics and political opposition, the long-awaited Gordie Howe International Bridge opened to the public towards the end of last summer. Its opening constituted - and we're putting this lightly - the single most important development in the history of Detroit's outdoor economy. A direct link between between the Iron Belle Trail and Trans Canada Trail. A fluid, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly connection between both nationalities of the Detroit region. With the Gordie Howe International Bridge now open for cross-border recreational splendor, here's what binational explorers of the Detroit region can look forward to: A prominent multi-use path that accommodates pedestrians and cyclists across the Windsor-Detroit border. Toll-free access to the bridge for foot and pedal traffic. Direct integration into the Trans Canada Trail in Windsor and the Iron Belle Trail and Great Lakes Way in Detroit. Safety features including concrete barriers separating the multi-use path from vehicular traffic, emergency call stations, security cameras, and lighting. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know before accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path: Travel Documentation All Multi-Use Path users must clear customs. You must carry a valid passport, NEXUS card, an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or a Michigan Enhanced ID. Mode of Transport Pedestrian (walking or running) and cycling traffic; only Class I e-bikes that are pedal-assist with motors that automatically cut off at 19 MPH (32 km/h) are permitted. Physical Requirements The Gordie Howe International Bridge is approximately 1.5 miles in length and has an incline of 5%. Some pedestrians and cyclists may find crossing the bridge to be strenuous in some sections, so please plan accordingly. Time of Access The Multi-Use Path is open from 8 AM to 8 PM from April 1st through October 31st; 8 AM to 4 PM from November 1st through March 31st. Access to the pathway will end one hour before closing time to allow users to complete their journey within the hours of operation. Prohibited Items and Actions Skateboards, roller-skates, in-line skates, and similar devices; motorized power assist rideable bikes or scooters; agricultural and meat products; cannabis; self-defense items (i.e., pepper spray); consumption of alcohol, vaporizers, or e-cigarettes; use of drones or other unmanned devices; using speakers. Cost FREE! DISCOVER YOUR "TWO NATION DESTINATION" BY CROSSING THE GORDIE HOWE BRIDGE WITH TRAILBLAZE DETROIT! What are your recreation plans for this fall? Are there any destinations or top outdoor experiences near Detroit that we should highlight for the Expedition Detroit community? Let us know in the comments!

As outdoor enthusiasts flock to Michigan's forests, trails, and waterways this fall, we invite you to recognize the sportsmen and sportswomen leading the charge in protecting Michigan's legacy of conservation: the Michigan Wildlife Council. "Now this...this is what it's all about." When words fail to adequately capture a sensation, the soul knows how to deliver. Chemists allocate the feeling to a mix of serotonin and dopamine, but your very essence experiences that familiar rush of nostalgia right as the truck starts up on a crisp fall morning. Or the boat starts humming in the pre-dawn mist. The exact moment that a blazing sun breaks through the morning dawn, illuminating a world of red, orange, and yellow. For Michigan's hunting and fishing faithful, fall is full of traditions that summon this nostalgia. No matter how many years - or generations - pass by, time always seems to stand still at your trusted tree stand, secret fishing hole, or favorite trail. As the ziiiiip and plunk of the fishing line breaks the morning silence, every memory from each cast comes rushing back. The immortal, living legacy of those who first taught you to cast a line, carried on indefinitely by the next generation waiting increasingly impatiently to take the rod. For me personally, every time that I climb into my favorite tree stand during whitetail deer season, I express gratitude for everything contributing to that precise moment. For the tree that supports me, the surrounding environment that supports abundant life, the mentors that patiently taught me how to hunt, and a state that recognizes the incomprehensible value that conservation provides to its people, wildlife, and natural resources. From the fishing piers of downtown Detroit to the rugged north woods of the Upper Peninsula, the great state of Michigan has invested heavily in continuing its tradition of conservation throughout the Great Lakes State. Specifically, the Michigan Wildlife Council has been deputized by the governor's office to spearhead the effort to preserve Michigan's great outdoor heritage for future generations. Despite their success, recent data shows that less than a quarter of Michigan's outdoor recreationists are familiar with those entrusted with protecting Michigan's legacy of conservation. That changes now, with this long-overdue article. Vintage photo of ice fishing in Michigan; courtesy of UpNorth Memories - Donald (Don) Harrison A Heritage of Conservation: The Complicated History of Regulated Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping in Michigan Hunting, fishing, and other conservation-related activities across Michigan date as far back as the known history of Michigan itself. Before the arrival of Europeans to the Great Lakes region, Michigan’s three largest tribes - the Ojibwe (also called Chippewa), Odawa (also called Ottowa), and the Potawatomi - relied predominantly on hunting, fishing, and trapping across Michigan's abundant forests and waterways for both sustenance and cultural significance. The arrival of European-descendent settlers in the 1700s and 1800s brought drastic changes to Michigan's natural ecosystem, including significant natural resource degradation brought on by unregulated development, logging, and market hunting and angling. Fortunately, the pioneers of modern conservation recognized the threat facing Michigan's natural resources. In 1875, the Michigan Sportsman Association formed in Detroit to create a unified effort to prevent what they realized was a wanton destruction of the northern Michigan deer herd. In 1887, Michigan deputized William Alden Smith as its first game warden responsible for enforcing fish and game regulations. The first deer license regulations went into effect in 1895, prompting the eventual creation of the Department of Conservation - later renamed the Department of Natural Resources - in 1921 and a century of successful conservation activism. Historical photo of Michigan Conservation Officers in action; photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources While conservation activities remained synonymous with recreation throughout most of the 20th century, a steady decline of hunter participation from 1982 until 2010 eroded the ecological, fiscal, and cultural benefits that hunting and trapping bestowed upon Michigan. Although not as drastic, the relative numbers of anglers has also declined slowly over the past 40 years. Available data from leading survey research firms like Responsive Management demonstrate that the percentage of Americans who hunt and fish is expected to continue to decline, thereby threatening the revenues and impact of state wildlife agencies. Total Number (millions) 1960 1982 (peak hunting year) 2021 (peak fishing year) 2022 Change (1960-2022) Hunting licenses sold in U.S. 14.0 16.7 15.9 15.9 13.5% Fishing licenses sold in U.S. 19.1 30.0 32.2 31.0 62.3% U.S. Population 180.7 231.7 332.1 333.3 84.4% Data courtesy of Wildlife for All Most state wildlife agencies have embraced "R3 efforts" to “recruit, retain and reactivate” hunters and anglers in order to boost the number of license buyers. In the great state of Michigan, our legislators have enacted an even more comprehensive approach to this issue: the establishment of a council dedicated to educating the public on the critical role that hunters and anglers hold in funding conservation, habitat restoration, and state-wide wildlife management. Michigan State Capitol; photo courtesy of Michigan State Capitol Commission Conservation Proclamation: The People's Mandate for the Michigan Wildlife Council With public perception of hunting, fishing, and trapping free-falling on a nation-wide scale, the Michigan State Legislature decided that immediate action was needed. On September 18th, 2013, Representative (now Senator) Jon Bumstead introduced House Bill No. 4993 that first contemplated the establishment of the Michigan Wildlife Council. The mandate of this new government body would eventually read as follows: "Develop and implement, in conjunction with a third-party marketing or advertising agency, a comprehensive media-based public information program to promote the essential role that sportsmen and sportswomen play in furthering wildlife conservation and to educate the general public about hunting, fishing, and the taking of game." That mandate further required the Michigan Wildlife Council to educate the public that hunting, fishing, and the taking of game are associated with the following: Necessary for the conservation, preservation, and management of this state's natural resources; A valued and integral part of the cultural heritage of this state and should forever be preserved; and An important part of this state's economy. On December 21, 2013, Governor Snyder signed the bill into Michigan State Law. With the stroke of his pen, the Governor not only codified the existence of the Michigan Wildlife Council, but a directive from the people of Michigan to advocate for the protection of its most at-risk resources: its fish and wildlife. Legacy Protectors: Measuring the Impact of the Michigan Wildlife Council A lot has changed in Michigan since the Michigan Wildlife Council was entrusted with protecting Michigan's legacy of conservation nearly 13 years ago. For one, the successor of the Governor who signed the legislation has nearly completed her two terms in office. The Detroit riverfront has experienced a glorious revitalization. Our state weathered an unprecedented pandemic, and consequently our outdoor recreation industry has flourished. Throughout these trials and tribulations, Michigan's wildlife and natural resources have remained a constant backdrop to our state's ambience. And despite the logistical hurdles of Covid-19, the Michigan Wildlife Council has remained a steady - and successful - advocate for their conservation. Once hunted to extinction, Michigan's elk re-introduced elk population has remained stable thanks to conservation efforts like regulated hunting and habitat restoration. With the aid of a cutting-edge multimedia marketing agency, the 9-member Michigan Wildlife Council has utilized its annual allocated budget ($1.4 million generated from hunting and fishing licenses) to launch a broad marketing campaign in furtherance of its mandate. The 2026-27 installment of the Council's "Protecting Michigan's Legacy" campaign includes a mix of the following: Engaging social media marketing content. Strategically-placed video marketing. Billboards at high-traffic interstate locations. Partnering with mission-aligned third party marketing outlets. With regard to the success of the Michigan Wildlife Council's efforts, available data from a Responsive Management 2025 survey demonstrably supported a strong correlation (79%) between outdoor enthusiasts who have both (i) seen the Council's marketing materials and (ii) approve of regulated hunting and fishing. The report also found that Michiganders lead the country in general support of regulated hunting (75%) and fishing (82%). Anglers along the Detroit Riverfront; photo courtesy of the Detroit Free Press The Next Frontier: The Significance of Metro Detroit for Michigan's Legacy of Conservation So...with all of the success of the Michigan Wildlife Council over the last 13 years, why are we highlighting the Council's mandate for Expedition Detroit's audience? Succinctly put, because the future of conservation in Michigan starts in Southeast Michigan. Just as Michigan's historic conservation moments began in the City of Detroit, the Responsive Management survey also demonstrates that our region provides the greatest opportunity for expansion of conservation activism. Per the report, the survey respondents that disapproved the most of regulated hunting included the following: Those who had never heard of the Michigan Wildlife Council (12%); Those who reported their ethnicity as black (12%); Those who reported their age as 25-44 years old (11%); and Those who reported living in Metro Detroit (11%). For Team Expedition Detroit, this data provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partner with the Council - and serve the people of Michigan - through our platform. Long-time readers of our content know that we have long advocated for the ecological, environmental, and social benefits of conservation-based recreation within our region. Metro Detroit's overpopulation of deer, abundant waterways, plethora of publicly-accessible land, and available cultural resources like the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center equate to a generational opportunity to enact Michigan's next golden age of conservation. Coming soon to a billboard near you. Coming fall 2026, the Michigan Wildlife Council's newest public slogan will be "The Tradition is the Trophy." As you venture out into the woods this October, or drop a line into a frozen lake this February, or call in a gobbler next May, we're certain that you'll resonate with this slogan too. Before knocking an arrow or casting a line, we invite you to pause for a moment and express gratitude for those ardent conservationists that have protected your right to enjoy these traditions. Better yet, we hope that you join the growing number of Michiganders heeding the Michigan Wildlife Council's call to protect Michigan's legacy of conservation for generations to come. This is a sponsored article produced by and in collaboration with the Michigan Wildlife Council. Expedition Detroit is proud to partner with private enterprises and public organizations like the Michigan Wildlife Council that share our core values.

Ready to put your body and mind through the ultimate endurance test - all while exploring the wildest and most beautiful terrain that Metro Detroit has to offer? If you're already stoked, then check out our newest #ExpeditionPartner feature on southeast Michigan's premiere ultra race: the Huron 100 ultramarathon near Detroit! June 8th, 2025. Brighton State Recreation Area. Sometime long after midnight. Just a few volunteers remain at Maple Shelter, located a mile marker 55.1. The standalone structure had been my home for close to 12 hours now, with the "Expedition Detroit" flag still proudly waving above a smorgasbord of race-provided snacks. The woods are calm at this stage of the race - a far cry from the trickle of world-class runners that we'd hosted prior, followed by the inundation of the main pack later in the evening. Now, with our JBL speaker humming out Avicii on its last bar of battery, our eyes remain fixated on the darkness just beyond our neon-lit structure. Fireflies provide the only contrast to the seemingly-endless darkness that only our region's most pristine Michigan State Parks can provide. The eye catches a flicker of something brighter. A light moving too slowly for a car, too bobbly for a bike. No one says a word for a second, then somebody in the shelter finally overcomes the fear of a false alarm. "RUNNER COMING IN!" The sleepy shelter erupts into a well-oiled hospitality machine. One volunteer squints their eyes trying to record numbers on the bib. Another prepares cups of water and tailwind. A third gets the massage gun ready. All of us our cheering loudly, making sure this runner knows that he is in the process of accomplishing a truly remarkable feat. "Man," he says as he catches his breath and downs some freshly-cut watermelon. "I've run ultra races all over the country. California, Vermont, Florida...I didn't expect southeast Michigan to feel like this." I smile before responding. "Yeah," I respond while extending a fist bump, "we've heard that a few times tonight." This runner's comment encapsulated two key aspects of the route that the Huron 100 - the Detroit region's premiere ultramarathon - follows: Southeast Michigan's outdoor destinations are stunningly beatiful, diverse, and are guarnateed to surpass any first time visitor's expectations; and DO NOT, for the love of God, underestimate the challenges of the Detroit region's glacially-carved terrain. Team Expedition Detroit is proud to showcase the world-class adventure opportunities found only here in southeast Michigan. Those select bucket list-worthy experiences that solidify Metro Detroit as an idyllic location to live, work, and explore. Covering everything from multi-day canoe camping expeditions to 100-mile mountain biking challenges and a top-rate international marathon, adventure truly starts here in our backyard. Of all of those experiences though, if you're truly looking to experience the full spectrum of the Detroit region's outdoors in one odysessy of adventure, you should register for the Huron 100. Scratch that, you must register for the Huron 100. Our region's preeminent showcase of endurance, athleticism, camaderie, and incomparable trails. Plus, if you're really lucky, you'll get an ice-cold cup of tail wind from yours truly with Avicii blasting in the background. Let's dive more into what makes the Huron 100 the Detroit region's showcase ultramarathon now. MEET THE HURON 100 If you look at a satellite image of the Detroit region, you'll notice a dark green, diagonal line across the western edge of our region. Technically known as the "Jackson Interlobate Range," that glacially-formed, ecologically-diverse, and geologically-challenging terrain forms the spine of Metro Detroit's outdoor adventure ecosystem. Most of our Michigan State Parks, mountain biking trails, ski hills, and paddling routes are located within this unique and interconnected stretch of moraines. Four years ago, when I was first building the ecosystem of what became Expedition Detroit, I spent countless hours staring at that diagonal line. As I identified and mapped out the recreational opportunities found within it, I dreamed of a single, interconnected route that traced the entirety of it. Three years later, I discovered that another Dan - the Huron 100's Founder Dan Hughes - had a similar vision. But that Dan not only turned such a dream into a reality, but built a remarkable and community-powered dream around it. Huron 100 Founder Dan Hughes - the ultramarathoner's first finisher In 2022, Hughes completed the inaugural journey along the route that would evolve into the Huron 100 with the support of his family and a few close friends. In 2023, twenty bold Huron 100 "pioneers" carried that spirit forward, setting the foundation for everything that followed. The first & second official races in 2024 and 2025 helped turn this once-quiet idea into a truly iconic - and uniquely Detroit region - experience. The 2027 rendition will mark the fourth (but really sixth) chapter of the saga of Michigan’s most spirited point-to-point trail ultramarathon race. EXPERIENCE THE HURON 100: METRO DETROIT'S WILDEST ROUTE The Huron 100 consists of two ultramarathon events along its legendary route: a "sprint" 50 Mile race (yes, we're using a very liberal definition of "sprint") and the namesake 100 Mile race. Both events start at Waterloo State Recreation Area and comprise of point-to-point races, although the full 100 finishes at Proud Lake State Recreation. Here's a quick breakdown of each event: ULTRAMARATHON EVENT 50 MILE 100 MILE Start Information June 12th, 7AM at Waterloo State Recreation Area June 12th, 9AM at Waterloo State Recreation Area Elevation Gain (cumulative) 4,400 ft. 8,200 ft. Parks Crossed 4 9 Allotted Finish Time 15 hours 32 hours Percentage Trail 93% 82% Finish Information Country Elementary Proud Lake State Recreation Area Registration Fee (CLICK HERE for discount information) $175 ($189.87 with taxes & fees) Save 15% with Expedition+! Price increase on January 4th, 2027 $275 ($296.37 with taxes & fees) Save 15% with Expedition+! Price increase on January 4th, 2027 For more information on the specifics of the Huron 100, check out their FAQs page. HURON 100 COURSE BREAKDOWN Curious what 100 miles through Metro Detroit's remaining wilderness feels like? Here's a segment-by-segment breakdown of what terrain you should expect while navigating the preeminent ultramarathon near Detroit: PHASE ONE: WATERLOO-PINCKNEY TRAIL Miles 1 - 35 The Huron 100 ultramarathon kicks off right where it should: following the Detroit's region's showcase backpacking trail, the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. Runners follow the roller coaster of sandy hills along the trail and meadow until the trail’s terminus near Silver Lake in Pinckney State Recreation Area. Here, runners continue their Huron 100 journey by traveling north along the east side of a local classic: the Potawatomi ("Poto") Trail. Poto, known for its rolling hills and stunning single track, offers runners plenty of boardwalks and bridge crossings, over waterways and through marshes. The course encompasses roughly half of this iconic trail, following it up steep inclines and through wetlands. BACKPACK POTO WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT PHASE TWO: LAKELAND TRAIL Miles 36 - 50 At the top of Poto, runners leave the marked trail behind and follow dirt roads until they reach the northern section of Pinckney State Recreation Area on Kelly Road. Here, runners continue to climb hills through sandy terrain before leaving the park and continuing to the Mike Levine Lakelands Trail. The Lakelands Trail is a paved multiple-use trail that takes runners eastward across Livingston County through pastures, picturesque wetlands, and residential woodlands. It offers a welcome reprieve from the relentless hills and technical footing of single track. PHASE THREE: BRIGHTON STATE RECREATION AREA Miles 51 - 66 From the Lakeland Trail runners head up Chambers Road. This is the first opportunity to pick up pacers - surely a welcomed highlight. Chambers Road is a gently rolling dirt road that eventually connects to the west side of Brighton State Recreation Area. Brighton State Recreation Area is home to miles of trails traversing thick hedgerows, deciduous woods and grassy marshes. Trail lovers are happy to get back onto mostly single track for the next 16 miles. Taking a challenging turn, the course continues onto the infamous Torn Shirt Trail. Known for its steep climbs and rocky descents, the course winds its way through the flowing and often dizzying single track. PHASE FOUR: HURON MEADOWS METROPARK Miles 67 - 75 It's time to embrace the dark, runners! By this point in the race, the sun has set, the headlamps are lit, and your Tour de Huron continues into the night. Runners depart Brighton Rec and head towards Huron Meadows Metropark by way of Hammel Road. Huron Meadows Metropark is a hidden local gem whose nature trails include both single track and wider trails where racers can run side-by-side with their pacers. Leaving Huron Meadows, racers cross through Legacy Sports Center and under Highway 23, catching a bike trail up to Island Lake State Recreation Area. Although the terrain is less idyllic, the miles are brief, and the smooth path is a welcome change. PHASE FIVE: ISLAND LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA Miles 76 - 84 With less than a marathon remaining, runners enter Island Lake State Recreation Area (ILSRA) on the Blue Trail. The Blue Trail is an easy trail rolling through miles of peaceful woodland. Racers enjoy getting back onto some gentle single track. After the Spring Mill Pond aid station at Mile 82, runners make their way to the ILSRA trail head where they pick up the Yellow Trail. The Yellow Trail travels through pine and deciduous forest along the Huron River and eventually leads runners to the Hiking trail. On the hiking trail, runners meander through open woods and meadows. They pass under Highway I-96, leaving ILSRA and entering into Kensington Metropark. EXPLORE THE YELLOW TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT PHASE SIX: KENSINGTON METROPARK Miles 85 - 92 Kensington Metropark is well known for its paved multi-use path that travels around Kent Lake. As the sun rises, racers are treated to some gorgeous views of the lake catching the early morning light before veering off onto the lesser traveled horse trails. The Kensington horse trails are rustic and footing is challenging. With wooded and hilly terrain, the trail steadily heads to the northern end of the park where folks rarely go on foot. Proud Lake's Finish Line: The end of the journey of a lifetime. PHASE SEVEN: PROUD LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA Miles 93 - 100 Congrats: you've reached the FINAL LAP of your Metro Detroit odyssey! At this point, runners leave Kensington Metropark and cross over South Milford Road to follow the Chief Pontiac Trail along the the Kensington-Proud Lake Connector Trail. The dense hedgerow and sometimes grassy paths certainly see much suffering as the runners enter the final miles. These trails dutifully shepherd runners into Proud Lake State Recreation Area. Smelling the pine trees, and perhaps the finish line, runners open up over these relatively flat, sometimes wide, but absolutely beautiful trails. START THE ADVENTURE: RUNNING (OR VOLUNTEERING AT) THE HURON 100 I have a confession to make. As I watched that experienced ultramarathoner leave my aid station at Brighton Rec - jogging off into the dead of night - I experienced massive "FOMO" (Fear Of Missing Out). This dude was in the midst of the adventure of a lifetime, trekking 100 miles across the expeditious heart of Metro Detroit, leaving my companions and I behind. You don't need to relive my emotions from that moment. If you've ever dreamed of completing a 50 or 100 mile saga of a race, and especially if you've been training for such a feat, then the Huron 100 ultramarathon is the perfect event for you. EXPEDITION+ SUBSCRIBERS SAVE 15% ON REGISTRATION FEES! Unable to run but want to join the movement? PERFECT - as a 501(c)(3) organization, the Huron 100 Team is looking for dedicated volunteers (like yours truly) to join their ranks on race day! Expedition Detroit is proud to partner with and promote like-minded organizations like the Huron 100 as part of our new "EXPEDITION+" platform. EXPEDITION+ createS a singular platform for accessing and promoting the entirety of the best of the Detroit region's outdoor tour providers, local outfitters, and impact-driven organizations. If you're interested in learning more information about the benefits of EXPEDITION+ as a subscriber or partner, please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com. Photos utilized within this article have been published with the express prior written consent of the Huron 100.

Yes - even with Metro Detroit's "peak running season" for 2026 just around the corner, we've already set our sights on the Huron 100 ultramarathon's next start. Here's our argument why you should register for a 2027 ultramarathon now. If you were bold enough to click on this article, then congrats - you're interested in accomplishing something that only 0.03% of Americans will ever willingly register for. And if that statistic seems wild, well, guess what: the vast majority of those registrants will not successfully complete the race. So...with those statistics in mind, what would possess me to register for the Huron 100's "50 Mile" ultramarathon event - a distance that statistically has a DNF ("Did Not Finish") rate of~85%? Three reasons come to mind: My experiences watching the life-changing impact of the race as a volunteer. The opportunity to join the ranks of the "15%" of finishers. 267 days to prepare. As you probably guessed, the bolded rationale is the main focus of this article. By registering for such a feat roughly 9 months in advance, we're of the humble belief that the likelihood of enjoying a life-changing event AND joining the "15%" increases exponentially. Time can be a runner's best friend while training if approached purposefully, providing you with a massive advantage on beating public enemy #1 in any ultramarathon event: the DNF list. Fate is sealed. Time to train. Registration for the 2027 running of the Huron 100 Ultramarathon opened on September 1st of this month. Partially with the genesis of this article already in mind, I registered that very morning (confirmation included above for accountability). So, now with my registration for my first ultramarathon shared publicly, you best believe that I will be personally relying on the insights provided within this article for crossing the finish line next June. I hope to see you at the starting line - and finish line - standing next to me. Let's get into these "5 Reasons" why you should register for a 2027 ultramarathon this fall - and preferably, right now. 1. TIE YOURSELF TO THE "ULTRAMARATHON MAST" REGISTRATION AS AN INVESTMENT IN COMPLETING YOUR GOAL Millions of Americans witnessed Matt Damon screaming in blissful agony this summer. Well, technically his character, the Greek hero Odysseus, suffered the soul-wrenching fate of listening to the Sirens' song while being unable to steer his ship towards their lethal rocks. Why? Odysseus was aware of the fatal nature of the hypnotizing effect of the Sirens' song, so he preemptively ordered his crew to tie him to the mast of his ship. Nonetheless, curious Odysseus still wanted to experience the power of the Sirens' song, regardless of the temporal consequences while bound. Hence, the screaming. Will you be screaming during an ultramarathon? Hopefully not - or at least they'll be screams of joy. Regardless, the phrase "Tie Yourself to the Mast" in modern context reflects one's resolute commitment to a course of action. By registering early for a "physical odyssey" like an ultramarathon, you will layer your commitment to completing the race with a financial investment in the experience. In contrast, the longer you delay registering for such a daunting feat, the greater the likelihood of "hearing the Siren's song" luring you off course - both figuratively and literally. The main reason that greater than 99.9% of Americans will never register for an ultramarathon is largely a symphony of self-limiting beliefs - the ultramarathoner's "Siren's song" - versus actual physical limitations. With each passing day that could have been allocated towards training, the arguments against registration will grow strong, louder, and ultimately make the prospect of an ultramarathon entirely impracticable. If you aspire to join the rare ranks of an ultramarathon finisher, then join us in tying yourself to the mast by registering today. May your commitment to completing the race drown out the SIren's song of doubt. Plus, the only way to guarantee a DNF is to never register in the first place. 2. CAPITALIZE ON PEAK RUNNING SEASON RACES UTILIZE FALL RACING SEASON TOWARDS BUILDING ULTRAMARATHON BASE Crossing the finish line at the 2025 Detroit Free Press Marathon was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. After a decade of "perpetual training" for a single accomplishment - annotated with a litany of successes, injuries, and the volatility of 10 years of a human life - completing that marathon represented the end of a chapter that defined a third of my life. Of course I wasn't thinking of any of that as my weary feet shuffled over the finish line. I was just thrilled to get off of my feet and cross "Complete a Marathon" off of ye olde bucket list. In that phase of my running career, completing a 26.2 mile race was the pinnacle. There were no other registrations on the horizon, and as such I allowed my base mileage to erode quickly thereafter. Now - nearly a year later and with a base mileage largely restored - I recognize how beneficial those long miles of "peak season" fall running could've been towards a more daunting spring race. Yes, the body needs ample time to recover after any strenuous event. But there's a nexus between recovery and sustained fitness that can be utilized towards maintaining your established fall base through winter and into spring. Plus, by partially reframing your fall half-marathon or marathon as a "training run" for your spring ultra, you'll benefit from taking some pressure off of your performance during that singular event. Which in turn might actually boost your performance on race day (that's been my personal experience). 3. ALL ABOUT THAT BASE, BOUT THAT BASE (NO TROUBLE) FALL REGISTRATION PROVIDES PLENTY OF TIME TO BUILD A SOLID MILEAGE BASE BEFORE TRAINING REGIMEN KICKS OFF We'd argue that "Base" is the most important word in the sport of distance running - and often the most overlooked. While we briefly touched on the importance of maintaining a solid base on the last section, let's backtrack a bit for any aspiring ultramarathoners that are either unfamiliar with the concept - or looking to build an ultramarathon-ready base. For the uninitiated, "building a base" refers to intentional "Zone 2" cardiac training that is the runner's equivalent to building a foundation for a house. More specifically, a runner's base consists of improving the athlete's cardiovascular and muscular systems through consistent runs at a lower intensity - and lower mileage - than a traditional training plan calls for. For an ultramarathon hopeful, think eventual long runs of 6 - 10 miles at a conversational pace. The key benefit of building up your base is that it slashes your likelihood of an eventual overuse injury significantly. A review of research on runners’ injuries published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science found that the injury incident rate among runners is 40.2%, with a notable 70% of those injuries being from overuse - i.e., doing too much too soon. By taking the time to build a base, a runner can make sure their body has ample time to adapt to the stress of a rigorous training regimen. With regard to a 50 mile ultramarathon, my current training plan allots for 3 months of strictly-base building. As any experienced runner knows, that amount of time is nothing short of a luxury. During this period, I'll be focusing on the following core pillars of base growth: Core Focus Establish consistent, easy-effort weekly mileage without burning out. Mileage Volume Build up to a stable 25 to 35 miles per week. Long Run Distance Keep weekend runs comfortable (60 to 90 minutes or 6 to 10 miles) focusing strictly on time on feet and conversational pace. Strength Training Two lower-body and core strength sessions per week to protect joints. Come December, the actual 6-month training plan will kick off - including a mix of running, continued strength training, and (spoiler alert) seasonal cross-training adventures. 4. AMPLE RECOVERY TIME FOR IN-TRAINING INJURIES REGISTRATION AS AN INVESTMENT IN COMPLETING YOUR GOAL Two steps forward, one step back. That's how my injury-prone training for the Detroit Free Press Marathon felt, especially throughout the 2025 training season. After experiencing a debilitating iliotibial ("IT") band injury that resulted in a deferment of my 2024 marathon registration, my recovery started with 5 months of near-total rest from running. By February of 2025, I ever-so-gently eased my way back into marathon training with the help of my friend Dr. Bryce Groshek of Primary Performance. Increased strength training and flexibility were the core components of the recovery regimen that he prescribed, which were admittedly absent from my previous training program. My injury never fully-healed over the subsequent 6 months to race day. Especially in the lead up to race day, I tended to push my mileage and pace whenever my knee felt fine - which inevitably resulted in re-aggravating the IT band and pausing my training. Come race day, I threw caution to the wind, set my sole focus on crossing the finish line, and "embraced the suck" of running 26.2 miles on a barely-functioning knee. Let me be abundantly clear: you do not need to repeat this experience. With approximately 9 months to purposefully train - and assuming that you've taken ample time to build your base - you can mitigate injury risk by building a consistent strength training and flexibility regimen. In the unfortunate event that an injury does occur, you will also increase your odds of recovery in time for race day by starting your training sooner than later. 5. CROSS-TRAINING ADVENTURES GALORE ADD VARIETY TO YOUR TRAINING BY EMBRACING THE DETROIT REGION'S 4-SEASON RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES There's only one clear, potential downside to registering for a race ~9 months in advance: training burn out. A common side effect of months and months of training for a race that doesn't even occur within the same calendar year. Add in the continued demand to juggle training commitments with work and life demands - as well as the monotony of long miles in familiar locales - and you can fathom why many runners vow never to run farther than a 5K after completing their first ultramarathon. Fortunately for us living in Metro Detroit, we have the blessing of residing in a four season environment, complete with 365 days of varying recreational opportunities. As I type these words, we are within the last week of astronomical summer. When the starting gun of the Huron 100 ultramarathon fires on June 12th, it will be roughly one week shy of summer's return. Put differently, between now and race day, we will have the blessing of three full seasons' worth of cross-training variety. Here is my season-by-season plan for complementing my runs and strength training sessions with low-impact outdoor cross-training: 🍂🍁 Fall: Peak foliage hiking, gravel cycling, open water swimming, and mountain biking. ❄️⛷ Winter: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and pond hockey. 🌷🌱 Spring: Return of gravel cycling, backpacking, and (once conditions permit) open water swimming and mountain biking. For those of use inclined to the great indoors - especially during winter - stationary cycling, row machine exercises, and yoga are phenomenal low impact cross-training exercises. Participation in team sports like basketball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and (for me personally) ice hockey will also benefit your ultramarathon training regimen. EXPERIENCE THE HURON 100: METRO DETROIT'S WILDEST ROUTE The Huron 100 consists of two ultra marathon events along its legendary route: a "sprint" 50 Mile race (yes, we're using a very liberal definition of "sprint") and the namesake 100 Mile race. Both events start at Waterloo State Recreation Area and consist of point-to-point races, although the full 100 finishes at Proud Lake State Recreation. Here's a quick breakdown of each event: ULTRAMARATHON EVENT 50 MILE 100 MILE Start Information June 12th, 7AM at Waterloo State Recreation Area June 12th, 9AM at Waterloo State Recreation Area Elevation Gain (cumulative) 4,400 ft. 8,200 ft. Parks Crossed 4 9 Allotted Finish Time 15 hours 32 hours Percentage Trail 93% 82% Finish Information Country Elementary Proud Lake State Recreation Area Registration Fee (CLICK HERE for discount information) $175 ($189.87 with taxes & fees) Save 15% with Expedition+! Price increase on January 4th, 2027 $275 ($296.37 with taxes & fees) Save 15% with Expedition+! Price increase on January 4th, 2027 For more information on the specifics of the Huron 100, check out their FAQs page. The Huron 100 adventure begins. EXPEDITION+ SUBSCRIBERS SAVE 15% ON REGISTRATION FEES! Unable to run but want to join the movement? PERFECT - as a 501(c)(3) organization, the Huron 100 Team is looking for dedicated volunteers (like yours truly) to join their ranks on race day! Expedition Detroit is proud to partner with and promote like-minded organizations like the Huron 100 as part of our new "EXPEDITION+" platform. EXPEDITION+ creates a singular platform for accessing and promoting the entirety of the best of the Detroit region's outdoor tour providers, local outfitters, and impact-driven organizations. If you're interested in learning more information about the benefits of EXPEDITION+ as a subscriber or partner, please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com. Photos utilized within this article have been published with the express prior written consent of the Huron 100.

Summer is FINALLY here, Detroit! As you prepare your seasonal adventures across the Detroit region (and beyond), here is Expedition Detroit's "Summer 2026 Preview" highlighting the best outdoor experiences and events to look forward to this summer near Detroit! In Michigan, winter tests you - and summer rewards you. Team Expedition Detroit has mixed feelings on that statement, mostly because we're outspoken "big winter guys" over here. BUT, what remains indisputable is that the Detroit region - and Michigan as a whole - represents an outdoor paradise in the summer months. Just the word "Summer" - which officially kicked off just a week ago on June 21st - stirs up images of outdoor relaxation, recreation, and adventure. From jumping into your favorite local lake and paddling along the Huron River to backcountry camping and watching thousands of fireflies outshine a raging bonfire, summer fully immerses you within each of its fleeting, unforgettable moments. So much so that the season can feel overwhelming. That's where this article comes into play, Detroit. Here is Expedition Detroit's "Summer 2026 Outdoor Preview" - your short guide to planning an unforgettable summer in Metro Detroit's outdoors! 1. Relax Along the Detroit Riverfront Destination: Detroit Riverfront | Detroit, MI When to Experience: All summer Recommended Adventure: Enjoy one, two, or ALL of the events hosted by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Every season of the year, you can find Detroit's outdoor community recreating, relaxing, and connecting along the Detroit Riverfront Trail. That being said, the riverfront's activity kicks into high-gear during the summer months, thanks largely to the full spectrum of events hosted by our friends at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. In full transparency, the sheer quantity of riverfront shindigs going down this summer can feel overwhelming at first glance. Don't worry - that's where we come in. We've rolled up our sleeves, dug deep into the DRC's calendar of events (+general "To-Dos"), and highlighted the following for your recreational pleasure: Cruise down the Riverwalk at a "Motown Roller Club Meetup" event, occurring on the first and last Tuesday of each month. Learn foraging skills at a Riverwalk Herbal Walk event, taking place on July 13, August 10, and September 14. Explore Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, the Riverfront Trail's newest family-friendly destination, including weekly "Movie Nights" on Wednesdays. Join WeRun313 for one of their weekly 5K or 10K Thursday runs. Close out summer with celebrating Detroit's trails at the "Soiree for the Greenways" event on September 18, a masquerade fundraiser benefitting both the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and Joe Louis Greenway Partnership. 2. CELEBRATE AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY AT A 4TH OF JULY RACE Destination: Downtown Milford | Milford, Michigan When to Experience: July 4th Recommended Adventure: Running the "Milford Firecracker Run" race Happy 250th birthday, America! Kick off your holiday with the annual "Milford Firecracker Run," which includes a full suite of 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K distances to choose from. While the race largely follows the familiar Milford-Kensington Trail from "Run Milford" races past, the Firecracker's route starts at Christ Lutheran Church (north of GM Road) before venturing east towards Kensington Metropark and Camp Dearborn, before turning around to head north towards Hubbell Pond Park - before turning around again to finish at the Church. As is tradition, be sure to head back to Main Street in Milford after the race for the marvelous 4th of July Parade! Pre-Race Information Registration available online. Packet pick up and registration on site at Christ Lutheran Church starting at 7 AM. Race is professionally chip-timed with age group awards and photos. Swag Details All finishers receive a custom race medal All participants will receive a custom race shirt Awards for top male and female in each event along with top 3 in each age group ***JOIN EXPEDITION+ AND SAVE 20% ON ALL RUNNING VENTURE RACES*** 3. GET IN THE WATER AT BELLE ISLE Destination: Belle Isle State Park | Detroit, MI When to Experience: July 10th-11th Recommended Adventure: Paddling and/or Swimming in a Special Event Belle Isle Park has always represented the epicenter of the Detroit's outdoor recreational ecosystem. With its nearly thousand acres located conveniently in the heart of the Detroit River, the isle has provided a natural escape for Detroiters throughout the entirety of the city's storied history. The legacy proves especially notable - scratch that, essential - during the hot summer months. While bathing at Belle Isle's beach or picnicking within its green spaces are favored pastimes, Summer 2026 provides two world-class opportunities to cool off in the water at these awesome events: Swim Across America's Motor City Mile Open Water Swim: July 10th, 8:30 AM at Belle Isle Beach. Distance options include 0.25 mile, 0.5 mile, 1 mile, and epic 2 mile swims! Belle Isle Classic: Annual paddle and row event geared around discovering Belle Isle! Get in the water with some of the best paddlers found within the Great Lakes region, or complete the non-competitive "Belle Isle Circumnavigation" challenge. EXPLORE BELLE ISLE STATE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 4. FINALLY CROSS THE GORDIE HOWE INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE Destination: Gordie Howe International Bridge | Detroit, MI and Windsor, ON When to Experience: Hopefully Summer 2026 Recommended Adventure: Biking from the Iron Belle Trail to the Trans Canada Trail Out of all the world-class events listed within this article, the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is easily the most transformative - and controversial. The "Great Trails Connector" linking Michigan's Iron Belle Trail to the behemoth Trans Canada Trail has been subject to repeated delays in opening, first for logistical reasons and now, apparently, political. As of the date of this article, this month's grand ribbon-cutting ceremony has been "delayed indefinitely" due to alleged "lingering trade tensions and unresolved issues." Just as a primer on the Gordie Howe Bridge, the 1.5-mile-long (2.4-kilometer-long) bridge will constitute far more than a third connection between Windsor and Detroit. Named after the Red Wings' legendary player, the bridge will provide a vital economic, logistical, and (most importantly for Expedition Detroit) recreational artery between Canada and the United States. The bridge will provide the first and only pedestrian-only means of biking or hiking across the Detroit River, thereby directly linking thousands of trail connections. At this point, only the powers that be know when the Gordie Howe Bridge will finally open. Regardless of that date, we can make two promises to you: Team Expedition Detroit will be there to celebrate this historic feat of recreational engineering; and The greatest era of the Detroit region's outdoor economy will have officially begun. Photo courtesy of Social Life Project 5. WATCH THE FIFA WORLD CUP IN A LOCAL PARK Destination: Campus Martius Park | Detroit, MI When to Experience: June and July Recommended Adventure: Joining a Detroit City Football Club or similar watch party in a local park The historic 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full swing, with the "Knock-Out" phase JUST STARTING LAST NIGHT with Canada's 1-0 win over South Africa. If you haven't had the opportunity to catch all of the action during the "Group Stage" - including the United States' top-place finish - then don't fret. The tournament's best days are still ahead, especially when viewing in Detroit's outdoors. For U.S. fans, there's no better place to watch the Knock-Out matches than the "Best Public in America": Campus Martius Park. Hosted by our resident Detroit City Football Club, these watch parties begin 90 minutes prior to kick-off and require online pre-registration (free entry though). The City of Windsor has also hosted watch parties in their public spaces throughout the tournament, featuring large screen TVs, food vendors, and other World Cup-related amenities. As the U.S., Canada, and Mexico (hopefully) continue to progress through the Knock-Out rounds, expect these watch parties to get more energetic and engaging. We can't wait to cheer our boys on at Campus Martius with you over the next month! 6. GRIND INTERNATIONAL GRAVEL ACROSS THE DETROIT REGION Destination: SE Michigan and SW Ontario When to Experience: Throughout July and August Recommended Adventure: Riding in one of the Detroit region's international gravel riding events Did you know that the international Detroit region has been heralded as one of the premiere up-and-coming destinations for gravel biking? From the rolling terrain of the Jackson Interlobate Range to sprawling lakeside country roads, our local environs are increasingly playing host to world-class gravel riding festivals across both sides of the border. Here are our recommended gravel races for planning top-tier summer rides: BIG Gravel Grind: July 5th, Thedford, Ontario One Helluva Ride: July 11th, Chelsea, Michigan De Ronde Van Grampian: August 1st, Oxford, Michigan The Watermoo: August 8th, Dexter, Michigan 7. BACKPACK THE POTAWATOMI TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Destination: Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney, Michigan When to Experience: July 11th - 12th Recommended Adventure: Thru-Hiking "Poto" on a Weekend Getaway Fireflies sparkle as you gaze into a roaring campfire, surrounded by several new friends and adventure partners. You've spent the day backpacking through one of Metro Detroit's storied and beloved wilderness areas, and are sharing stories as waves lap against the shore in the background. It's the idyllic conclusion to a perfect day backpacking in the Detroit region. The best part? You have another one waiting just over the horizon. That's just a teaser of what you can expect when joining Expedition Detroit on a guided backpacking trip through Pinckney State Recreation Area along the fabled Potawatomi Trail this summer! Last year and this past April, the Expedition Detroit team experienced firsthand the magic of backpacking the 17.6 mile Potawatomi Trail. In honor of the trail's 60th anniversary, we thru-hiked its entirety with an overnight at Blind Lake Campground - the top-rated backpacking campground in the Detroit region. Do yourselves a favor, Expedition Detroit community - join the adventure and book a mid-summer backpacking adventure getaway along Poto. EXPLORE PINCKNEY STATE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 8. CELEBRATE THE MTB LIFE AT A MOUNTAIN BIKING FESTIVAL Destination: Stony Creek Metropark and Lakeshore Park When to Experience: All Summer Recommended Adventure: Riding in the celebrated Tree Farm Relay or one of Stony Creek Metropark's events For Team Expedition Detroit, summer unofficially kicks off at one of our favorite annual events: the "Milford Bike Fest," occurring during the first week of June and featuring over 100 miles of MTB-accessible trails. While "Bike Fest" technically goes down in late spring, the Detroit region's summer months are jam-packed with mountain biking-related festivals, races, and other events complementing peak riding season. Here's a short list of our recommended MTB fests: BIG Bang XC MTB Race: Stony Creek Metropark, July 18th Tree Farm Relay: Lakeshore Park, July 25th Shelden Mountain Bike Fest: Stony Creek Metropark, September 26th What are your recreation plans for this spring? Are there any destinations or top outdoor experiences near Detroit that we should highlight for the Expedition Detroit community? Let us know in the comments!

Summer vacations may have ended, but Detroit's primetime outdoor events season is just kicking off! Here are September's "Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit" that are coming down the pipeline this month. Ladies and gentlemen, start your recreational engines: the "Ber" months have FINALLY arrived back to Detroit! In full transparency, Team Expedition Detroit has had the month of September circled on our calendars since May. According to 4 years of our engagement data analytics, we can empirically state that the Detroit region's outdoors hit their full stride in September (and gets even stronger in October). That's right - summer months be damned, September is when our local outdoor community shines. And if you're scratching your head at that conclusion, here's a summary of our arguments as to why: Vacationers are home. Back to school means that intrepid adventurers have returned to their local parks and trails - or are in the hunt for local outdoor adventures to maintain August's momentum. Summer's miseries are behind us. Extreme heat, pervasive wild fire smoke, blood-thirsty deer flies - September constitutes a welcomed departure from such miseries. Summer's blessings are still in full effect. September provides the ideal window to fully enjoy warm weather recreation without fighting for reservations, parking spots, or trail space. Peak race season is waiting in the wings. After a full summer of training, September provides the perfect bridge month of "training races" before October's headlining events. The net result of the above factors? An action-packed September filled to the brim with world-class outdoor events for the whole family to enjoy. So, without further delay, here are the Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit going down this September! 1. Race with the Elite at the Michigan Triathlon and Duathlon Championship September 6th | Belle Isle State Park | 7:30 a.m. Get ready for an unforgettable race day at stunning Belle Isle State Park in Detroit this upcoming Labor Day weekend! This premier event combines the excitement of triathlon and duathlon competitions with the stunning backdrop of the Detroit River and downtown Detroit & Windsor skylines. Whether you're an elite athlete, weekend warrior, or first-time triathlon athlete, the 2026 Michigan Triathlon and Duathlon Championship offers a challenging course, incredible camaraderie, and a chance to test your limits while soaking in the beauty of one of Michigan’s iconic landmarks and unique island setting. Photo courtesy of Blake Farms 2. Dash Into Fall at a Cider Mill Race September 12th | Spicer Orchards and Blake's Lyon Township | 9:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. September's bounty includes warm days, crisp nights, and the return of even crispier, fluffy donuts and refreshing cider! On September 12th, you'll have the opportunity to run TWO fall-themed races at two Metro Detroit staples: the "Honeycrisp Harvest Hustle" at Spicer Orchards in Fenton, Michigan and the "Donut Dash 5K" at Blake's Lyon Township in South Lyon, Michigan. Your cider mill odyssey kicks off in the morning at Spicer Orchards. While the main 5K kicks off at 9 a.m., two separate "Kids Fun Run" events will be held at 10:45 and 11 a.m. Each runner will receive a small bag of fresh apples along with sweet cider (what tastes better than a well-earned harvest reward). Extra perks include a custom finisher medal, dri-fit race shirt, and other post-race refreshments. But you're not done yet - DONUTS AWAIT! Just a 20 minute drive down US-23 is another family-favorite cider mill with its own harvest-themed 5K: Blake Farm's "Donut Dash." With its later start times of 6:30 AND 8:30 p.m., any Honeycrisp 5K finishers looking for extra miles will have plenty of time to rest up before jaunting through Blake Farm's 50 acres. Donut Dash 5k will be run on gravel trails guiding runners through the scenic orchard. Registration includes a donut, glass of hard or sweet cider, custom t-shirt, and a commemorative glass. 3. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve September 12th | Point Pelee National Park | 8:00 p.m. The days are finally getting darker as we approach the Fall Solstice this month, so the stars at Point Pelee National Park - the one of the best stargazing destinations in the Detroit region - will be shining the brightest that they have all summer! Point Pelee's "Dark Sky Nights" are especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave variable conditions at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours (open until midnight this month), seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos. Who knows...maybe we'll even be treated to another primetime showing of the Northern Lights this month! BOOK A TOP-RATED NIGHT HIKING EXPERIENCE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 4. Show Up to Show Out at "Soirée for the Greenways" September 18th | Southwest Greenway, Detroit, Michigan | 5:00 p.m. Don your masquerade mask and costume and come experience the new "Soirée for the Greenways" in celebration and support of connectivity of Detroit's public green spaces! After taking a year off, Soirée returns this fall with a fresh format, new location, and expanded impact on the future of Detroit's Greenways. Soirée for the Greenways will be hosted at the Southwest Greenway and will be a 21+ masquerade fundraiser under the stars that you won't want to miss. This year, the event will benefit both the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, helping advance a shared vision of accessible, beautiful, and connected green spaces throughout the city. The evening will be a celebration of local art centered around community and the unveiling of a new mural created by Detroit-based artist, Louise “Ouizi” Jones. Guests will not only enjoy observing the artistic displays throughout the event; they can engage in unique ways including taking a ride down the greenway on one of Juan Martinez’s animal bikes, letter pressing their own custom prints with Signal Return, experiencing Yazmin Dababneh’s immersive colorful light display, and much more! 5. Fly Over to the Festival of Hawks September 19-20th | Holiday Beach Conservation Area | 9:00 a.m. Did you know that the Detroit region is home to one of the greatest migrations in North America? That's right - and our friends over in Amherstburg, Ontario plan the perfect annual event to celebrate and catch a glimpse of this rare feat. This year, Holiday Beach Conversation Area will host the 2026 Festival of Hawks - aka HawkFest - during which bird watchers and nature aficionados will observe the migration of tens of thousands of hawks and raptors flying overhead on their annual journey to nesting grounds in the south. The festival will also feature a range of free educational activities and nature-themed programming, all included with the price of admission ($20 CAD per vehicle, per day). 6. Welcome Autumn at a State Harvest Festival September 25th - 27th | Proud Lake State Recreation Area and Seven Lakes State Park | 9:00 a.m. Is there a better way to kick off fall in Michigan with a weekend camping trip? We can only think of one way: adding in a Harvest Festival to the trip! Just in time for the Harvest Moon, campers at both Proud Lake State Recreation Area and Seven Lakes State Park will enjoy a Michigan DNR-hosted "Harvest Festival." The festival will include haunted hayrides, friendly hayrides, bonfires, crafts, scavenger hunts, archery, bounce houses, site decorating contest, costume parade, trick-or-treating, dancing, a popcorn bar, and other activities. This event is only open to registered campers, so be sure to visit MIDNRReservations.com ASAP to reserve your spot! EXPLORE THE BEST OF PROUD LAKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! 7. Sharpen your Axe for the Fire & Flannel Festival September 25th - 26th | Wyandotte, Michigan | 3:00 p.m. Do you rejoice at the return of #FlannelSeason and the uniquely fall activities that accompany it?? I absolutely do - and it turns out that I'm far from alone. This September, head down to Wyandotte for Fire & Flannel Fest: an exciting Fall festival where everything is centered around Fire and Flannel! The festival has entertainment for everyone, including lumberjack shows, axe throwing, fire performers, glass blowing, and live chainsaw carvings. The action continues all weekend long with live music, fire pits to roast s’mores, and live entertainment. All revelers are strongly encouraged to wear flannel shirts for this festive occasion. Food trucks and vendor booths featuring harvest goods and unique craft items will be located throughout the festival's "Fall Crafters Market." BECOME YOUR OWN LUMBERJACK WITH AN EXPEDITION DETROIT "CAMP AXE" 8. Fuel Up on Caffeine at the Coffee Classic Run September 26th | Indian Springs Metropark | 8:00 a.m. Coffee. Run. Repeat. That's the motto for our #ExpeditionPartners over at Running Venture for "National Coffee Day," and we can't think of a better way to celebrate than joining their "Coffee Classic Run" at Indian Springs Metropark! The Coffee Classic Run starts at 8 a.m. at the Meadowlark Pavilion. Both the 5K and 8 mile races follow along the metropark's beautiful paved trail, while a special "Kid's Run" sprints off at 9:30 a.m. All runners will receive a custom shirt, finisher medal and mug, complimentary refreshments, and - you'll never guess - COFFEE. There will also be special awards for the top male and female finishers in each event, along with top 3 in each age group! ***PRICE INCREASE GOES INTO EFFECT AFTER AUGUST 31ST*** 9. Celebrate Highland's Recreational Heritage at the Haven Hill Festival September 26th | Highland State Recreation Area | 10:00 a.m. Step back in time at the 2026 Haven Hill Festival, a celebration of the historic Haven Hill Estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford and the natural beauty, history, and heritage of Highland Recreation Area! The Haven Hill Festival is a celebration of Edsel and Eleanor Ford’s historic Haven Hill Estate and the natural and cultural treasures of Highland Recreation Area. Here's a rundown of the SEVERAL family-friendly activities that you will enjoy at the festival: An 1860s exhibition vintage base-ball game in Goose Meadow beginning at 10 a.m., accompanied by live brass band music. Vintage Ford cars on display and driving throughout the day, along with a model airplane flying demonstration in Goose Meadow. The historic Edsel and Eleanor Ford Family Buildings and the new Gatehouse Visitor Center will be open to the public. Exploring the Edsel Ford Barn, seeing a historic Ford Model T motor, and discovering Haven Hill National Natural Landmark's art and history Enjoy the MDNR Cedar Creek Trail, summer food and beverages, and children’s activities in Goose Meadow. Enjoying the MDNR Cedar Creek Trail, summer food and beverages, and children’s activities in Goose Meadow. Live musical performances. EXPLORE HIGHLAND'S HISTORIC HAVEN HILL LOOP WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 10. Send It at the Shelden Mountain Bike Fest September 26th | Stony Creek Metropark | 3:00 p.m. Peak summer riding may have past, but fall still represents prime time for riding on the Detroit region's best mountain biking trails! Riders of all skill levels can get into the action during this month's 4th annual Shelden Mountain Bike Fest, hosted jointly by the Huron-Clinton MetroParks and the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association! Riders will experience the thrill of the recently redeveloped Shelden Trails with fellow mountain bike enthusiasts, visit vendor and bike-related booths, enjoy some great food vendors, grab a beer to enjoy by the bonfire, and relax after hitting the trails with free s’mores from REI. Shelden Mountain Bike Fest jerseys will also be available for purchase on site during the event, and rounding out the evening will be a group twilight trail ride, so be sure bring your bike lights! BONUS: EXPLORE YOUR STATE PARKS WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Throughout September (and beyond) | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Fall colors are JUST AROUND THE CORNER, and there's no better way to experience them than at our regional Michigan State Parks! Not sure where to explore? No problem - we've curated dozens of guided trips intended to showcase the best of the best of the Detroit region's outdoors. And in case you missed it...our "Back to School" Deals are live ALL SEPTEMBER LONG! For our guided trips, we're offering not only 30% off any guided trip, but a "Book Two, Get One Free" special. So don't let those post-summer blues bring you down - there's an adventure or two (alright, three) waiting for you along the Detroit region's best trails. DISCOVER THE CROOKED LAKE TRAIL'S FALL COLORS WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! The Expedition Detroit team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach across ELEVEN of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience. P.S. Subscribers to our content get the inside scoop on discounts for our guided trips AND online store items..... Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

FINALLY! The Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path" is OPEN, solidifying Detroit as America's preeminent "two nation destination." If you're ready for your next two-for-one adventure across the international Detroit region, then check out Episode 4 of "Trailblaze Detroit" as we explore both sides of the Gordie Howe International Bridge! Let's start at the end of a glorious day of firsts. Standing proudly at the Malden Park Observation Area, the highest elevation of Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Admiring the gleaming Gordie Howe International Bridge to my left, the stoic skyscrapers of downtown Detroit to my right, and an oasis of forest amidst my immediate surroundings. The sparkling Detroit River completes the panorama, with its crisp waves contrasting the warm August afternoon. I'm soaking it all in on August 5th, 2026: the inaugural opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge's long-awaited "Multi-Use Path." A major - no, unparalleled - keystone event in the development of the Detroit region's international outdoor ecosystem. The first day that the burgeoning trail networks of southeast Michigan and southwest Ontario were forever linked via one seamless, state of the art marvel of infrastructure. From that vantage point, you could see all of Detroit's outdoor ecosystem. And I'm not just referring to the Gordie, or the recently-minted parks and greenways dotting the Detroit Riverfront, or even the distant moraines that encapsulate Metro Detroit's largest state parks and wildest outdoor destinations. Dare I say you could even see the future of our outdoor amenities, including the forthcoming Ojibway National Urban Park in Windsor and the Joe Louis Greenway in Detroit. But on that dazzling, late summer afternoon, the Gordie Howe International Bridge stood alone as the crown jewel of Detroit's outdoor amenities. A brand new, bucket list-worth recreational experience worth celebrating. A fluid connection between two trails systems, cities, and nations that we were proud to be among the first to explore. Now that the fanfare has past and the Gordie's operations are firing on all cylinders, the Trailblaze Detroit Team - an adventure-travel collaboration between Expedition Detroit and Visit Detroit - is proud to present this "expert's guide" to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path." Beyond important logistics, this guide highlights the regional destinations on both sides of the border waiting for you to experience. Okay, Trailblaze readers - let's go international and explore crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path" now! CHECK OUT EPISODE 4 OF TRAILBLAZE DETROIT! Clark Park: the official "U.S. Trailhead" for the Gordie Howe International Bridge Start the Adventure: Clark Park Trailhead in Detroit, Michigan Total Miles: 5.9 miles (one way) U.S. Trailhead: Clark Park, Detroit, MI Canadian Trailhead: Malden Park, Windsor, ON Your grand international adventure across the Detroit region begins in one of its most unassuming destinations: Clark Park in Detroit. Logistically, Clark Park makes sense as the designated "official U.S. trailhead" for accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge from Detroit. The park and its immediate environs have ample parking, plentiful public amenities (such as restrooms and drinking fountains), and is nestled conveniently among the vibrant MexicanTown, Southwest Detroit, Hubbard Farms, and Delray neighborhoods. What makes Clark Park even more exciting as the official U.S. gateway surrounds the past, present, and future of the park itself. Clark Park represents one of the oldest and most well-used parks within the City of Detroit, with its rich and diverse history dating back to the1800's. A $4M renovation that ended in 2023 brought Clark Park into the modern era, unveiling an ADA-accessible playground, splash pad, multi-sport court, picnic shelters, benches, walking paths, outdoor fitness equipment, baseball fields, a zipline, and the only regulation-sized outdoor ice hockey rink in Metro Detroit. Looking ahead, Clark Park will undoubtedly remain a Detroit outdoor staple due to its primetime location along the in-process Joe Louis Greenway (the "JLG"). As the JLG continues its transformation from dream to interconnected reality, walking, jogging, or biking from the core of downtown Detroit to the Gordie Howe International Bridge will become a new favorite pastime or Detroiters and visitors alike - with Clark Park serving as the route's community anchor. Side Quest: Bike the Joe Louis Greenway to Downtown Detroit Before we jump to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge, let's keep the focus domestic for this first recommended "Side Quest." Yes, Clark Park serves as the official trailhead to the Gordie Howe International Bridge - but that doesn't mean you should forego Detroit's other interconnected outdoor gems, especially as the JLG comes to fruition. So, assuming that you'll either be parking at Clark Park or starting your ride from downtown Detroit, here are the can't-miss destinations along the JLG route: Southwest Greenway: Opened to the public in May of 2023, this dynamic greenway trail connects Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park with the Michigan Central mobility innovation district, Corktown, Mexicantown and Southwest Detroit neighborhoods. The Southwest Greenway is home to The Yard Graffiti Museum, an outdoor gallery dedicated to the preservation of the graffiti and underground history of this space, and features a zip line and climbing logs for younger visitors to enjoy. Michigan Central Station and Roosevelt Park: Just a stone's throw away from the Southwest Greenway lies the crown jewel of Corktown - the recently renovated Michigan Central Station and its adjacent Roosevelt Park. The Station and Roosevelt Park provide a unique public destination, worthy of the complex's historical and cultural significance, with distinctive retail, cultural installations, and more. Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park: At the southern terminus of the Southwest Greenway is the transformational Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park. Just opened in October of 2025, this paradigm-shifting park along the Detroit River boasts the dynamic Delta Dental Play Garden, the serene Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden, the William Davidson Sport House for year-round recreation, and beautifully landscaped, tree-lined paths perfect for walking, relaxing, and reflection. Detroit Riverwalk Trail: No visit to Detroit is complete with a stroll or ride along the world-famous Detroit Riverwalk Trail. Crowned three years in a row as the "Best Riverwalk in America" by USA Today, the stunning 4.3 mile Riverwalk connects downtown Detroit's most beloved parks, greenways, and communities along the Detroit River. Hart Plaza: For most visitors to Detroit, Hart Plaza will serve as an ideal launching point for all adventures throughout the city's trail system (and beyond). Located in the heart of both downtown AND the Riverwalk, Hart Plaza represents the home of Detroit's summer-long festival scene, features several monuments, and contains breaktaking views of both downtown's skyscrapers and Windsor, Ontario. Photo courtesy of Jordan Garland The Main Event: Complete Guide to Crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge Now, the moment you've been waiting (and why you probably clicked on this article): here's a step-by-step guide to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge via its Multi-Use Path. Step 1: Navigate to the U.S. access point along Jefferson Avenue. Before you think "Duh" and skip ahead, note that most of the Joe Louis Greenway trail that will connect Clark Park to the Gordie Howe International Bridge - including the route mapped out above - is still under construction. As of the publishing date of this article, we recommend walking or biking either of these routes depending on active construction: S Clark Street to Jefferson Avenue W; or S Clark Street to W Fort Street, then following bike path to S Campbell Street before turning right onto Jefferson Avenue W. Step 2: Confirm that you have all international travel prerequisites. This step goes beyond just having the proper international travel documentation for crossing into Canada (and back into the United States). Here is a cheatsheet of every important detail that you should take into account before accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path: Travel Documentation All Multi-Use Path users must clear customs. You must carry a valid passport, NEXUS card, an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or a Michigan Enhanced ID. Mode of Transport Pedestrian (walking or running) and cycling traffic; only Class I e-bikes that are pedal-assist with motors that automatically cut off at 19 MPH (32 km/h) are permitted. Physical Requirements The Gordie Howe International Bridge is approximately 1.5 miles in length and has an incline of 5%. Some pedestrians and cyclists may find crossing the bridge to be strenuous in some sections, so please plan accordingly. Time of Access The Multi-Use Path is open from 8 AM to 8 PM from April 1st through October 31st; 8 AM to 4 PM from November 1st through March 31st. Access to the pathway will end one hour before closing time to allow users to complete their journey within the hours of operation. Prohibited Items and Actions Skateboards, roller-skates, in-line skates, and similar devices; motorized power assist rideable bikes or scooters; agricultural and meat products; cannabis; self-defense items (i.e., pepper spray); consumption of alcohol, vaporizers, or e-cigarettes; use of drones or other unmanned devices; using speakers. Cost FREE! Step 3: Enjoy Crossing the Bridge! FINALLY, the fun part! Once you've confirmed that all of the prerequisites are met, then you have the green light to enjoy quite possibly the most unique trail experience of your life. One that can only be compared - briefly - to running in the Detroit Marathon. As you venture up the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path, climbing ever higher towards its frontier summit (the literal border between the U.S. and Canada), don't forget to exercise a degree of caution as you're exercising along the route. You will almost certainly be sharing the Multi-Use Path with several other users, each with varying degrees of transportation modes, speeds, directions, and interests. Especially as you approach the official border, adorned with flags, plaques, and potential crowds, please don't try to sprint through this marquis photo destination. Instead, we advise slowing down and taking in the views. The maximum height of the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path is 150 feet above the middle of the Detroit River, so you'll be treated to unobstructed views of the Ambassador Bridge, the Detroit and Windsor skylines, and a freighter or two if you're lucky. Plus, how often can you say that you crossed an international border while out on your run or ride? Once you've crossed over the border - regardless of the direction - the Multi-Use Path will take you downhill, and fast. Cyclists will especially enjoy riding this section, although remember that the maximum speed permitted along the Gordie Howe International Bridge is 12 MPH (12 km/h). Enjoy the ride, but always stay in control. Your journey over the Gordie Howe International Bridge ends roughly 1.5 miles later at Canadian border patrol, so be sure to have your travel documents ready for approval. Side Quest: Exploring Historic Fort Wayne Before walking or riding into the Jefferson Avenue entry point, we strongly encourage that you delay your international adventure slightly longer to explore one of Detroit's historical gems located directly across the street: Historic Fort Wayne, a designated Michigan State Historic Site since 1958 and member of the National Register of Historic Places since 1971. Contrary to the collaborative spirit of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the U.S. military constructed Fort Wayne in 1845 to deter another armed conflict with British Canada during the decades that followed the War of 1812. Fortunately, such use never arrived, although the original barracks that were built in 1848 - as well as the original limestone "star fort" walls - are still standing. Historic Fort Wayne's military and civilian use has followed the long and fascinating history of both the City of Detroit and United States as a whole. During the American Civil War, Fort Wayne served as a formal military training ground for Union soldiers. The fort also played a key role in Detroit's service as the "Arsenal of Democracy" during both World Wars, providing manufacturing and logistical support of allied efforts. Fort Wayne served as a station on the Underground Railroad, housing for displaced Detroiters during the Great Depression, and operated for draftee induction during the Vietnam War. In its present state, Historic Fort Wayne serves Detroit's public as a scenic park with community soccer fields, riverside picnic grounds, and hosting events. And despite the fort's fascinating history, its brightest days are surely yet to come thanks to restoration efforts being spearheaded by the City of Detroit, Historic Fort Wayne Coalition, and Kresge and National Park Foundations. Downtown Detroit from Malden Park, Windsor; photo courtesy of Noel Devaney Canadian Finale: Exploring Malden Park and the Ojibway Prairie Complex Amazingly, your entry into Windsor, Ontario means that your perfect day exploring the international Detroit region is only halfway complete. Once you have passed through Canadian customs, the official Gordie Howe International Bridge route follows Sandwich Street to its dead-end on Broadway Street. At this point, you will have officially taken your first steps along the Trans Canada Trail: the longest recreational, multi-use trail system in the entire world. Following the Trans Canada Trail signage will lead you directly to Malden Park, the designated Windsor trailhead for accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path. While this designation may appear to solidify Malden Park as the finish line for your Gordie Howe Bridge adventure, we encourage you to flip that connotation and view Malden Park as your gateway to exploring the Windsor Essex region. Here are Trailblaze Detroit's recommended Windsor adventure travel destinations: Malden Park: Aside from representing the Canadian gateway to the Gordie Howe International Bridge, Malden Park boasts the highest hill in Essex County (the can't-miss "Malden Park Observation Area") and an extensive mountain biking and gravel cycling trail system. Ojibway Prairie Complex: a nearly 1,000-acre complex of parks and nature reserves that protects one of the largest remnants of tallgrass prairie and oak savannah in Ontario. Ojibway Shores: The last natural coastline of the Detroit River in Ontario. The Trans Canada Trail: 16 miles of the 18,000+ mile trail network connects the Gordie Howe International Bridge directly to serene parkland, thrilling cultural experiences, and waterfront adventures in the Windsor area. Dare we say, the Windsor area's preeminent outdoor destination is yet to come - and will be immediately accessible from the Gordie Howe International Bridge. In August of 2021, Parks Canada launched a new program to support the creation of a network of "National Urban Parks" for nature conservation and protection, reconciliation with indigenous partners, universal access to green spaces, and removal of transportation and infrastructure barriers. The Windsor region has been selected for one of Canada's next National Urban Parks - currently titled "Ojibway National Urban Park" - which is currently in its planning phase. Old Sandwich Town; photo courtesy of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Side Quest: Cycling Old Sandwich Town along the Windsor Riverfront Trail If you prefer to pair your recreational adventures with a slice of history or a good bite, then we suggest rerouting your Windsor adventures towards Old Sandwich Town and downtown Windsor. All this requires is turning left on Sandwich Street after exiting the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Canadian entry point and following the Windsor Riverfront Trail. For the uninitiated, Old Sandwich Town is considered one of the oldest, most historically significant settlements in Ontario and has been the site of several historically significant events in North American history. Founded in 1797 in the immediate wake of the American Revolution, Sandwich Town has witnessed the outbreak of the War of 1812, the Upper Canadian Rebellion of 1837, the final destination for thousands of freed and fugitive U.S. slaves along the Underground Railroad, and countless other historic moments throughout Canadian history. You can even visit the Duff-Baby House, which has witnessed each of these moments since its construction in 1798. Fast forward to the 21st century, Old Sandwich Town continues to thrive as one of greater Windsor's most dynamic communities. Beyond its historic marvels, Old Sandwich Town's renown dining establishments include The Dominion House (believed to be the oldest continuously run tavern in southwest Ontario) and Sandwich Brewing Co. (popular craft brewery and seasonal starting point for ghost tours). Photo courtesy of Jordan Garland As you cross back over the Gordie Howe International Bridge into Detroit, we'd be willing to bet that you'll be smiling from ear to ear. In one unforgettable day, you have successfully explored two world-class trail systems. Cross it off the bucket list. From connecting historic gems to future recreational marvels, the long-awaited Gordie Howe Bridge has blown away every expectation of a what a world-class trail experience should entail. We are beyond thrilled that the international Detroit region gets to lay claim to this transformational monument to recreation and collaboration. It was truly a dream come true to finally cross it on that historic late summer day. We can't wait for you to have your own "crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge" adventure on your next visit to the international Detroit region. Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit. The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them. Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more. (734) 821-6416

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 Elevation: 990 feet Why Iconic: Highest point in Wayne County Summit Location: Red marker on top of moraine ridge Recommended Route: Wayne Hill Peak Loop Trail Imagine standing at "Sunset Point" on Belle Isle Park's western tip, right at the point where you can reach down and feel the crisp water of the Detroit River. At that exact point, you are standing at Wayne County's lowest elevation of 571 feet. From Belle Isle, if you were to cross the MacArthur Bridge, continue west along the Detroit Riverfront Trail and Southwest Greenway until reaching Michigan Avenue, continue towards Dearborn until finding the Hines Park Trail, and then keep climbing through Downtown Northville until reaching Maybury State Park, you will have traversed the entirety of Wayne County. Both geographically and topographically. Nestled deep within the rolling forest of Maybury State Park - just south of the Oakland-Wayne County border - stands Wayne County's highest point, "Wayne Hill." Although the lowest elevation on this list, Wayne Hill actually provides one of the best vistas out of the 5 Summits due to a deep ravine and sprawling wetlands located directly below its summit. While there is a short (yet steep) access trail that leads directly to the summit, its unceremonious red marker can be easy to miss. That is, of course, until we work with our friends at Maybury to install a prominent, permanent marker. Stay tuned. EXPLORE MAYBURY STATE PARK WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 4. Prospect Hill | Waterloo State Recreation Area | Chelsea, Michigan Elevation: 1,150 feet Why Iconic: Highest point on the celebrated Waterloo-Pinckney Trail Summit Location: Stone/concrete marker at summit Recommended Route: Waterloo Pinckney Trail (Pines Campground to Green Lake segment) Every major climb, anywhere on earth, has one shared feature: switchbacks. Yes, the consistent zig-zagging can absolutely evolve into logistical annoyance once the summit comes into view. That being said, anyone who's attempted a straight-shot approach to the top can attest to how much these extra turns bless your quads. With enough summits, they become a welcomed sight for experienced eyes. That's why I let out a joyful shout ring out when the Prospect Hill switchbacks came into view along my 2023 traverse of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. For the uninitiated, the WPT is the Detroit region preeminent backpacking trail, encompassing over 30 miles of rugged moraine backpacking. There are several high points along the WPT, including the famous Sackrider Hill (1,125'), although the highest point is the lesser-publicized Prospect Hill. Why did the switchbacks elicit joy? Two main reasons: (1) switchbacks signal that a truly, and relatively arduous, "summit" is within grasp and (2) the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail shares common elements with every major, celebrated thru-hiking trail on the planet. That's worth a celebratory trail beer atop the hill's summit monument. 3. Pontiac Lake Peak | Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area | White Lake, Michigan Elevation: 1,154 feet Why Iconic: Remote high point of Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area Summit Location: Unmarked along ridge just south of Equestrian Trail Recommended Route: Pontiac Lake Peak Trail via Hiking Trail Some summits you need to work extra hard for, and not just in terms of effort. For Team Expedition Detroit, reaching the highest point of Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area - which we have taken the creative liberty of naming "Pontiac Lake Peak" - began several months ago. Due to its relatively remote and disputed location, we cross-referenced data from peakbagger.com and similar online forums to determine how to best discover and access PLRA's highest point in line with "Leave No Trace" principles. Our research uncovered that the park has two peaks that are located within a quarter mile of each other. One off-trail, the other directly on. We had no choice but to investigate. Which I literally just did. As I type these words, I am just a few short hours removed from standing atop of each of the "peaks" (yet another testament to the accessibility of adventure within the Detroit region). I hiked in for the sole purpose of pressing my Garmin watch, with its built-in altimeter, against the snow-covered hilltops to determine exactly which summit was the "true summit." Friends, we can confidently confirm that the true summit, Pontiac Lake Peak, is located along an isolated ridge just south of the park's Equestrian Trail. Unmarked (for now), near an oak tree, with 360º views during the offseason months. Don't worry - we created a 4 mile hiking route along Pontiac Lake's Hiking and Equestrian Trails that guides you to the Equestrian Trail Summit and Pontiac Lake Peak, including a Leave No Trace-aligned route to the Peak. EXPLORE PONTIAC LAKE RECREATION AREA WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 2. Mount Kanzer | Highland State Recreation Area | Highland, Michigan Elevation: 1,160 feet Why Iconic: Highest point of Highland State Recreation Area Summit Location: Concrete marker along tree just south of trail Recommended Route: Mount Kanzer via Milford Connector Trail Highland Recreation Area truly lives up to its name. Within the park's ~6,000 acres, there are several iconic moraine hilltops that could've easily made this list. Exploring Haven Hill (1,060') - the historic family home of Edsel Ford - is a quintessential Detroit region outdoor experience. Teeple Hill and its adjacent Peak 1083 both reach elevations of 1,083 feet. Last but certainly not least, Mt. Omich (1,139') constitutes the high point of the Chief Pontiac Trail's northern segment. Shockingly, the least famous of the aforementioned high points of Highland is its highest: Mount Kanzer. Rising clandestinely within the park's least-visited southwestern area, Mt. Kanzer reaches its apex at 1,160 feet (according to peakbagger.com and Strava). In the warmer months, Mount Kanzer is relatively popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers - anyone looking for a cardio challenge in charging up its steep eastern slope. When the snow is falling, we strongly recommend Mt. Kanzer for snowshoeing or even backcountry skiing adventures. Oh, we almost forgot - we lead a weekly guided hike to its summit as well. SUMMIT MT. KANZER WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT 1. Kerr Hill | Ortonville State Recreation Area | Metamora, Michigan Elevation: 1,229 feet Why Iconic: Highest point in the Detroit Region's State Park System Summit Location: Unmarked; earth mound within forest near Fox Lake Rd. trailhead Recommended Route: Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loop Trail Ladies and gentlemen, this is it. We've done our homework. Scoured the Internet. Joined a peak-bagging Reddit thread or two. And, of course, laced up our boots to confirm. Kerr Hill: the highest point at 1,229 feet within the Detroit region's system of Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas. We're not crowning Kerr Hill the tallest point in the Detroit region. That title actually belongs to Mt. Brighton ski resort's prominent summit of 1,330 feet, and is followed by a handful of other privately-owned high points in Oakland and Lapeer Counties. But that's also what makes Kerr Hill so special - especially since the hilltop is located within the Detroit region's least-visited Michigan State Park. Kerr Hill constitutes a publicly accessible, prominent, and adventure-worthy destination that few outdoor enthusiasts have ever heard of - let alone conquered. As we highlighted in our recent #TrailTuesday, one should not find summiting Kerr Hill as a very arduous endeavor. At least not from the trailhead; the Fox Lake Rd. trailhead parking lot is approximately 0.1 miles from the forested area that contains the unmarked summit. However, we strongly encourage you to hike the entire Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loop Trail to truly experience Kerr Hill in all of its prominence. The final climb will get your heart pumping. We guarantee it. SHORT HISTORY OF DETROIT'S TALLEST RANGE If we were to time travel 16,000 years back, we would all be cold. Very, very cold. In fact, we would find ourselves conveniently buried under a mountain of ice titled the Laurentide Ice Sheet that extended from the Arctic Circle to southern Indiana and Ohio. Over a 3,000 year period, the Laurentide Ice Sheet gradually receded into ice masses called "lobes," with the two most prominent lobes over the Detroit region comprising of the western Saginaw and eastern Huron-Erie lobes. Thankfully for our resident hiking, mountain biking, and downhill skiing enthusiasts, these lobes did not recede uniformly across the Detroit region. To the contrary, as the bulk of each of these lobes receded, any terrain caught in the "no man's land" between them found itself irrevocably transformed by the massive deposits of converged sand and gravel left in the wake of the receding glaciers. While the diminishing lobes flattened most of the Detroit region, this narrow strip of terrain with steep ridges, extensive hills, and "kettle pools" left by abandoned glacial deposits, remained a striking contrast against its surrounding swamps and grasslands. Map of the Jackson Interlobate Region; photo courtesy of ResearchGate GmbH This rugged landscape was further defined by the chaotic manner in which the lobes handled their multi-millennia retreat. The melt-back of the lobes was neither a continuous nor a steady process, including several periods of resurgence followed by short retreats, more advances, and more retreats. In the interlobate regions, where initial soil deposits from earlier retreats already presented obstacles for the path of any resurgent glaciers, these episodes meant that unfortunate deposits from intact glaciers were further piled on top of the growing hills in increasingly dramatic fashion. Most of the stunning Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas located within the Jackson Interlobate Range date back to 1943. Over the next 80 years, the rebranded Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Authority, and local municipalities collaborated to purchase and preserve hundreds of thousands of acres across this region. Thanks to such actions, recreationists crossing several generations have explored and appreciated the beauty of the JIR, and the region has continued to serve as the natural home for rare species and habitats. Want to explore the Detroit region's highest peaks and best trails with a guide? Look no further! Expedition Detroit proudly leads guided trips across 11 Michigan state parks and recreation areas. Book your next adventure by CLICKING HERE!

Planning a trip to Detroit? Don't forget to pack your skis! Join us on an adventure across the storied past, energetic present, and exhilarating future of Detroit's ski resorts in this second installment of Trailblaze Detroit - a new adventure series from Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit! Monday morning. 7:40 A.M. The frozen air of an early February polar vortex still grips the base of Mt. Holly Ski Resort, nestled in the northeast corner of Oakland County. The 6 inches of overnight snowfall will surely beckon "powder hounds" and thrill-seeking retirees alike to the resort by its first chair at 10 A.M. But for now, in these early morning hours, the slopes are shared by 3 lone individuals. Two are operating the behemoth groomers, methodically placing their zen-like corduroy lines across Mt. Holly's 100 skiable acres. The third - yours truly - is on foot. Well, on snowshoes - trekking up the "Canyon" slope with downhill skis and boots in tow. It's cold. Even the exertion of snowshoeing directly up 350 feet of a black diamond-graded slope can't seem to warm up the extremities. The calves start to burn from the incline. Mt. Holly's peak, toping out at 1,115 feet, inches slowly into view. Then, in a moment of unrivaled beauty, I reach the top of "Canyon" and find myself set ablaze by the golden rays of sunrise. For the first time since setting off on this expedition, I pause. Breathe in deeply. And smile, with a side of laughter, jubilation, and a statement of relief. "This...this is what it's all about. How amazing. How beautiful." Golden sunrise from the summit of Mt. Holly Ski Resort, Mt. Holly, Michigan A few minutes later I reached the summit, swapped the snowshoes for skis, and prepared to ski back down "Canyon" to close out the opening act of Trailblaze Detroit, Episode 2. In retrospect, as the dawn's dazzling sunrise was quickly overtaken by the snowfall that would define the rest of the day, its fleeting beauty perfectly encapsulated the ethos of this next installment of this adventure-travel collaboration with Visit Detroit. Sunrise. At the summit of the Detroit region's first ski resort. After trekking its highest vertical. All that was left for me to do was start this adventure, skiing through the past, present, and future of the heritage that defines the Detroit region's ski resorts. CHECK OUT EPISODE 2 OF "TRAILBLAZE DETROIT" HERE! Dec 31, 1957 Pontiac Ski Club at Teeple Hill, Highland Recreation Area; Photo courtesy of the Michigan Lost Ski Areas Project Making First Tracks: Brisk History of the Detroit's Ski Resorts and Heritage The skiing heritage surrounding Detroit's ski resorts dates back to, well, as old as the Detroit region itself. Yes, the region's first commercial ski resort, Mt. Holly Ski Resort, first opened in 1955. Michigan's nordic heritage even brought forth the "birthplace of organized skiing in America" up in Marquette County back in 1887. Going back even further - 15,000 to 20,000 years further - the receding glaciers of the last ice age carved the northwestern rim of the Detroit region into the rugged terrain that we enjoy today. That's right, Oakland County's ski resorts did not result from former landfills, as the common misconception foretells. Each of Mt. Holly, Alpine Valley Ski Resort, and Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort were formed naturally by the seismic power of glacial activity within this notably hilly region technically named the "Jackson Interlobate Region." Ski jumping in Northville, Michigan, 1924; Photo courtesy of The Making of America Series: Northville, Michigan (2001) Blessed by accessible hills, ample snowfall, and a growing population due to robust industrial development, it was only a matter of time before residents of the City of Detroit and its greater metropolitan area flocked to the sport throughout the 20th century. As recreational pastimes flourished at the turn of the century, makeshift ski resorts and venues flourished throughout the region. For example, in 1923, the Detroit-Northville Ski Club built an Olympic-grade jump near the corner of Hines Drive and Seven Mile Road that world champion ski jumper Henry Hall regularly showcased his skills on. The main resort skiing boom in the Detroit region occurred in stride with America's post-WWII obsession with outdoor recreation. Spurred on by Mt. Holly's success, 6 additional ski resorts throughout Metro Detroit opened by 1957. That number further ballooned to 11 by 1961, with each of Alpine Valley, Pine Knob, and Livingston County's Mt. Brighton opening in the early 1960s resort-building craze. Members of the Jim Dandy Ski Club, 1962; Photo courtesy of Friends of the Jim Dandy Ski Club In stride with more accessible destinations, new skiing demographics were also being introduced to Detroit's local hills during this era. No article on Detroit's skiing history would be complete without mentioning the Jim Dandy Ski Club - the first black ski club in the United States - which was founded in Detroit in 1958 and has over 200 members still making turns on Detroit's ski resorts today. By 1975, however, only 8 Detroit region ski resorts still remained in operation. Teeple Hill at Highland State Recreation Area closed around 1981, while Mount Grampian in Oxford, Michigan closed in the late 1980s. Their closures left the remaining Detroit region ski resorts - the "Big Four" of Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly, and Pine Knob - as the sole flagship resorts of Detroit's grand skiing heritage. Olympian snowboarder Jake Vedder, a Metro Detroit born-and-raised athlete On an Olympic Scale: The Present State of Skiing and Snowboarding across Metro Detroit If you're curious about the current state of Detroit's ski resorts - especially in light of its remaining four resorts - all you need to do is turn on your television. Just this morning, I watched U.S. snowboard cross athlete Jake Vedder, a native to the Detroit region, compete on the world's stage at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games. Where did Vedder learn to snowboard at such a world-class caliber? You already know the answer, but here's a hint: the same destinations that generations of Metro Detroiters and tourists alike have learned and honed their skills: Metro Detroit's ski resorts. Sunset from "The Wall" at Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort, Clarkston, Michigan So - what exactly does a trip to Detroit's ski resorts entail in 2026 (and beyond)? In short, you should expect an all-encompassing adventure, entertainment, and culinary experience. Better yet, each resort has its own flair of amenities for every level of skier and snowboarder, as well as the après-ski flair for every genre of winter sports enthusiast, both on and off the hill. Here's a short breakdown of what each resort offers: Detroit Ski Resort Skiable Terrain Information Featured Food & Dining Other Amenities Alpine Valley Ski Resort White Lake, MI skialpinevalley.com Total Runs: 19 Vertical Drop: 300 feet Elevation: 1,210 feet Chairlifts: 8 Night Skiing: Yes Hours: 10 A.M. - 10 P.M. (weekdays), 9 A.M. - 10 P.M./9 P.M. (Sat./Sun.) Spacious lodge with fireplace and cafeteria-style dining amenities on-site. Most equal distribution of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes among Detroit's ski resorts. Mt. Holly Ski Resort Holly, MI skimtholly.com Total Runs: 20 Vertical Drop: 350 feet Elevation: 1,115 feet Chairlifts: 8 Night Skiing: Yes Hours: 10 A.M. - 10 P.M. (weekdays), 9 A.M. - 10 P.M./9 P.M. (Sat./Sun.) Bavarian-style lodge with two cafeterias, a fireplace room, and a lounge with additional fireplaces. Only Detroit region ski resort with 2 high-speed chairlifts. Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort Clarkston, MI skipineknob.com Total Runs: 17 Vertical Drop: 300 feet Elevation: 1,201 feet Chairlifts: 6 Night Skiing: Yes Hours: 10 A.M. - 10 P.M. (weekdays), 9 A.M. - 10 P.M./9 P.M. (Sat./Sun.) On-site "Off the Wall" offering a variety of appetizers, burgers, paninis, salads, entrees, central bar, and live entertainment - all with a bird's eye view of the hill. X-Games grade terrain park features, including the annual hosting of the Red Bull Slide-In Tour. For the Trailblaze team, we experienced firsthand the full spectrum of each ski resort while filming Episode 2. From capitalizing on Mt. Holly's long turns, to the family-friendly accessibility of Alpine Valley, and the festive atmosphere under the lights at Pine Knob, we were mesmerized by the world-class skiing and amenities available within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. We also couldn't help but daydream about the opportunities that Detroit's ski resorts provide to the future of recreational tourism in southeast Michigan. Especially given the current state of the ski resort industry across the nation. Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort at night, Clarkston, Michigan Ready for Primetime: Metro Detroit's Future as a Skiing Destination "Did you have a good time skiing," the baggage check-in attendant asked me at the Denver Airport as I offer up my ski bag for the flight to Detroit. "Actually, I'm on my way to go skiing." “In Michigan?” she asks. “Yep, in Detroit.” She gasps. This excerpt formed the opening lines of a Ski Magazine article titled "Motown: Ski Town," published on January 23, 2002. The noted gasp seems more than appropriate for the timeframe: "Out West" skiing in destinations like Colorado, Utah, Montana, and so on was in the midst of its boom era, drawing scores of skiers and snowboarders from across the country - and globe - to the region's epic terrain, pristine powder, and affordable prices. Yeah. You read that correctly. "Pristine powder" and "affordable conditions." Fast forward a few decades and the storybook "out west ski trip" nearly requires granting a second mortgage to afford. Worse yet, the snow conditions in classic skiing towns like Park City, Utah have experienced a rapid deterioration. Social media feeds have been inundated this year with harrowing videos of snowless-slopes, over-saturated lift lines, and un-refundable lift passes priced at $300+ for a day ticket. Understandably, this has caused significant despair for skiing and snowboarding aficionados that care passionately for the sport. Fortunately, we have a proposed solution: Ski Detroit. Bountiful snow at Alpine Valley Ski Resort, White Lake, Michigan This recommendation goes far beyond simply promoting Detroit as a winter recreation destination à la Denver, Park City, or Bozeman. Beyond just the Detroit region, Michigan in particular has steadily caught the attention of the global skiing community over the past 15 years. Starting in 2012 with Vail Resort's acquisition and integration of Mt. Brighton into the "Epic Pass", Alterra Mountain Company made a similar move with Boyne Mountain Resort and Boyne Highlands into the rival "Ikon Pass" in 2018. More recently, independently-owned Mount Bohemia in the Upper Peninsula has been consistently named one of the best ski resorts in the country since 2019. Michigan's atmospheric rise on the global skiing stage is largely propelled by three main factors: Abundant - and reliable - lake effect snow; Affordable lift ticket prices for non-pass holders; and Accessibility to other recreational and entertainment amenities. While the Detroit region receives notably less lake effect snow than our west side compatriots, we still receive enough of the seasonal bounty to provide for ski days beginning the first week of December and well into spring. The armada of snowmakers that blanket all of Detroit's ski resorts provide additional assurance that as long as cold temps linger, there will be ample snow for turns. The beauty of a Detroit winter; Downtown Detroit from Belle Isle Park The true X-factor in the case for skiing Detroit, however, are the last two factors: "Affordability" and "Accessibility." Due to the mind-boggling modern prices associated with the classic family ski vacation out west, a growing demographic of Americans are facing a tough decision regarding whether to even introduce skiing and snowboarding into the lexicon of recreational options. Add in the egregious traffic getting to - and congested lift lines at - those same resorts, families inevitably pay thousands of dollars for a handful of runs. Now, let's compare that experience with skiing near Detroit. You land at DTW, ski bags in hand, and can be loading onto a chairlift in under an hour. After skiing all afternoon (or into the evening) with essentially no lift lines and a ticket that costs roughly 17% of an out west one, you arrive back at your hotel in Downtown Detroit in time for dinner reservations, a Red Wings or Pistons game, and a night on the town. And if your legs are feeling up for it, you can run it back the next day on a whim. That's the beauty of skiing Detroit - or really any Detroit vacation. You truly can have it all: celebrated museum tours paired with guided hikes, championship-caliber sports events and turns at industry-redefining ski resorts. A full-service travel destination, waiting for your arrival. We'll see you on the hill, Detroit! Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit. The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them. Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more. (734) 821-6416

Planning a trip to Detroit? Don't forget to pack your, well, pack! Join us on an epic backpacking adventure through the heart of Metro Detroit in this third installment of Trailblaze Detroit - a new adventure series from Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit! "Okay. Here we go." Sunlight gently breaks through the thick canopy above as you take your first steps into the dense forest shrouding the Chief Pontiac Trail. Spring's fresh growth covers the forest floor, hiding coveted mushrooms and other wonders of the surrounding woods. A bald eagle flies overhead, welcoming you to a domain rarely visited by Metro Detroit's locals and guests alike. Now in its 68th year, this well-worn backpacking trail through the heart of Metro Detroit has experienced firsthand every era of our region's recreational ark. From the automotive picnicking heyday of the 1950s and 60s to the lull of the turn of the millennium and post-Covid resurgence, the Chief Pontiac Trail has hosted scouting groups and intrepid local explorers alike for generations. While certain segments of the Chief Pontiac Trail have remained as popular as ever, vast sections of the traditional 16.5 mile thru-hiking route have depreciated from neglect - or been abandoned altogether. For the Trailblaze Detroit Team - an adventure-travel collaboration between Expedition Detroit and Visit Detroit - the trail's current state provides an unmatched opportunity to lean into our namesake and blaze a new route of the Chief Pontiac Trail. Still linking the traditional route's three parks, but introducing a "Pure Michigan Trail Town" and its world-class amenities to the trail. Okay, Trailblaze readers - let's go backpacking through Metro Detroit along a reimagined Chief Pontiac Trail! Check out Episode 3 of "Trailblaze Detroit"! The official trailhead marker of the Chief Pontiac Trail in Highland State Recreation Area Fresh Take on a Classic Route: Reimagining the Chief Pontiac Trail for the Modern Backpacker Total Miles: 16.9 miles Elevation Gain: 964 feet Initial Trailhead: Highland State Recreation Area Camping Location: Proud Lake State Recreation Area Terminus Trailhead: Kensington Metropark Our "Trailblaze Detroit reroute" of the Chief Pontiac Trail begins just as it always has: in the heart of Highland State Recreation Area in White Lake, Michigan. As you commute to the trailhead, you may find yourself surprised at the surplus of modern, suburban amenities that surround you along M-59. For fans of the Trailblaze series, you'll even spot the familiar sight of Alpine Valley Ski Area directly across the highway from the state park entrance. You'll be equally surprised by how quickly those sights and sounds dissipate as you enter the park and venture towards the trailhead. Highland State Recreation is home to 6,000 acres of Metro Detroit's wildest and most accessible terrain. Even though major urban centers like Pontiac are within cycling distance, Highland's rolling terrain and wildlife-dense wetlands create the delightful illusion that you have crossed into a wilderness area never before touched by civilization. Here are the "Highlights of Highland," your first destination along the Chief Pontiac Trail: Popular Activities: Mountain Biking, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Fishing, and Paddling Trails: 45 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails Namesake: Highland is named after the several glacial moraines that form the park's "highlands," with the tallest being Mt. Kanzer (1,160 feet) Hidden Gem: Haven Hill Natural Area, the former estate of Edsel Ford and a National Natural Landmark. Approach towards Highland's "Mt. Omich," the highest point of the Chief Pontiac Trail While in Highland Recreation Area, the first 4 miles of the Chief Pontiac Trail will follow the traditional trail's route. Beginning on the outskirts of the historic Haven Hill Natural Area, the Highland section crosses under Duck Lake Road through the classic "Tunnel Trail" and directly next to the famous Highland Mountain Biking Trailhead sign (recently renovated for the 30th anniversary of the mountain biking trail system). You will also reach the highest elevation of the entire Chief Pontiac Trail while hiking up and over Mt. Omich (1,133 feet). The Trailblaze reroute begins directly east of Mt. Kanzer, the tallest of all of Highland's towering moraines (1,160 feet). You will deviate away from Highland's "West Loop" to the Mount Kanzer/Milford Connector Trail, a recent trail addition intended to divert pedestrian and cyclist traffic away from narrow country roads. This trail deviation further serves to lead backpackers to Michigan's newest "Pure Michigan Trail Town": the Village of Milford, Michigan. Historic Downtown Milford Trail Town Interlude: Refueling Stop in Milford, Michigan If you have yet to experience the blessing and bounty of a "trail town," then stopping into the Village of Milford after several miles on the Chief Pontiac Trail will provide a soul-lifting experience. According to Pure Michigan, Milford earned the exceedingly rare designation of a "Pure Michigan Trail Town" due to several recreational factors, including its "wide variety of trail options including mountain bike trails, hiking and multi-use trails, equestrian trails, and water trails." First time visitors to "Trail Town Milford," whether driving in or backpacking through, should be sure to check out the following highlights: Exploring historic Downtown Milford, including a mandatory stroll up and down Main Street. Relaxing alongside the Huron River at recently-renovated Central Park. Restocking trail supplies at Blue Birch Outfitters of Milford. Grabbing a burger and award-winning beer at River's Edge Brewing Company. Perusing the Farmer's Market and enjoying "Concerts in the Park" on Thursdays in the summer. Enjoying a festival, such as the "Milford Bike Fest & Trail Challenge" each June and renown "Milford Memories" each August. For this Trailblaze reroute of the Chief Pontiac Trail, we couldn't imagine fumbling the opportunity to direct thru hikers into Downtown Milford. From its live music and festivals to juicy burgers and riverside views, Milford absolutely deserves its place as a featured destination along the trail. So, enjoy this short break from the trail action to enjoy the modern amenities of a historic, celebrated Trail Town. Because Proud Lake awaits. Stunning Huron River from Proud Lake's "Pines Campground" Riverside Rest: Camping at Proud Lake State Recreation Area While the Chief Pontiac Trail has changed dramatically since its inauguration in 1958, one constant aspect of the trail remains camping at Proud Lake State Recreation Area. While the traditional route leads backpackers along several miles of dangerous "road hiking," our reroute conveniently - and most importantly, safely - accesses Proud Lake just outside of the quietest streets of Downtown Milford. There are two camping options for backpackers at Proud Lake Recreation Area, depending on your affiliation: For youth organizational groups, the Lower and Upper Pines Campgrounds are available for special reservation with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. For all other backpacking affiliations, Proud Lake's main Modern Campground is available for online reservation (also available for recreational vehicle reservation or conventional camping getaways). Camping at Proud Lake State Recreation Area While you may be tempted to just pitch your tent and crawl into your sleeping bag after a long day of hiking, we strongly encourage you to utilize the overnight at Proud Lake to explore more of its 3,000 acres. Here are Proud Lake's "can't miss" recreational gems, which absolutely require a return visit: Kayaking the park's segments of the Huron River National Water Trail Mountain biking through Proud Lake's new MTB loops Fishing around Moss Lake Dam Hiking the one mile loop around the Proud Lake Marsh Horseback riding along the park's extensive trail system Regardless of any "add-on adventures" that you may tack on to a full first day on the Chief Pontiac Trail, we guarantee that you'll nod off to sleep in your tent with two main thoughts circulating in your head: First, an unbridled sense of accomplishment from a full day of adventure. Second - and especially as nature's lullaby fills your tent - a complete disbelief that you're a mere 40 minute drive away from the bustle of Downtown Detroit. Wildflowers along the Chief Pontiac Trail in Kensington Metropark The Grand Finale: Following Chief Pontiac's Steps to Kensington Metropark For nearly 70 years, Boy Scouts that successfully complete the Chief Pontiac Trail have received special medals containing the following honorary inscription: "WALKED IN CHIEF PONTIAC'S STEPS." Will you receive the iconic medal for successfully backpacking the Chief Pontiac Trail? Well, unless you're an active Boy Scout, probably not. But as you rise from your tent on the second day of your adventure through Metro Detroit, you will absolutely be walking in Chief Pontiac's steps as you traverse the final, storied miles of the trail. The same route that generations of Detroit region backpackers have followed across Proud Lake's formidable marshlands, over its challenging moraines, and into the rolling fields of Kensington Metropark. Chief Pontiac Trail markers deep within Proud Lake's most remote sections If you embarked upon the Chief Pontiac Trail in search of a true "wilderness escape," then congratulations - you've arrived at your destination. After crossing Wixom Road, all signs of civilization are quickly engulfed within Proud Lake's dense growth and towering pines. Then, just over a mile into the day's trek, you're faced with the true crux of the trail: crossing the seemingly-impenetrable Norton Creek marshlands. But wait, there's more. Once through the marshlands, the trail rewards your indomitable spirit with the sharpest, most prolonged climb of the trail. Mountain bikers zip past you as you complete this climb, surprised at the sight of a non-biker venturing this far into the woods. This is easily the most difficult section of the trail from both a physical and mental perspective. Take your time, follow your map, and enjoy the challenge of a legitimate backcountry experience found in the heart of Metro Detroit. And then, right when you start to wonder if the Chief Pontiac Trail might just push you beyond your limit, you finally see it: a long decline towards Old Plank Road, the official boundary between Proud Lake State Recreation Area and Kensington Metropark. You've made it to your third, and final, park of the trail. Chief Pontiac Trail marker within Kensington Metropark Kensington Metropark is a Detroit region outdoor destination that hardly requires an introduction. With over 4,500 acres of protected recreational prowess, the Metropark receives nearly 3 million visitors each year that enjoy the following amenities: Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails weaving through over 700 acres of forests, fields, fens, and swamps Boating, paddling, and fishing along the Huron River and massive Kent Lake Tee times at its 18 hole golf course Family-friendly exhibits and events at its Nature Center and Farm Center Playgrounds and beaches Ultimate summer fun at "Splash ‘n’ Blast" water park With its abundance of amenities - and impressive visitation figures - readers of this article might be surprised to have only just learned that the Chief Pontiac Trail crosses through the beloved metropark. If you fall into that camp, then know that you're far from being alone. In fact, that sentiment is representative of one of the best aspects of the Chief Pontiac Trail experience: leading backpackers through the least-visited segments of an extremely popular metropark. As you complete the Chief Pontiac Trail, you'll enjoy stunning natural vistas that remain hidden from the majority of visitors to Kensington. From rolling grasslands to stunning explosions of wildflowers and dramatic ridge lines, the dramatic approach to the Huron River provides a gorgeous finale to your long morning on the trail. The upper Huron River flowing through Kensington Metropark A final descent to Kensington's "Group Campground" illuminates the finish line of the Chief Pontiac trail: the Group Camp Road Bridge over the Huron River. In true Detroit fashion, there's no glitzy sign or over-hyped fanfare waiting for you at the end of the trail. Instead, nearly 20 miles of backpacking through the heart of Metro Detroit provides you with the following rewards: A lifetime of memories gathered in two days Unmatched sense of accomplishment and adventure Lasting awe and affinity towards the beauty of Metro Detroit's outdoors Shattered expectations regarding "Pure Michigan" trail experiences Stunning views of the shining Huron River Congratulations on walking in Chief Pontiac's steps, Detroit. We can't wait to see you at another trailhead soon. Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit. The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them. Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more. (734) 821-6416