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Hiking, mountain biking, hunting, & outdoor recreation blog featuring adventurous Detroit Michigan destinations, travel tips, & more. Welcome to the Expedition Detroit outdoor adventure blog! ABOUT Detroit is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. That is the core belief of Expedition Detroit , and you're invited to join our growing community that shares this vision. Whether it's a morning hike on a wooded trail, paddling through a pristine river, ripping down a mountain bike trail, finding a new ski line, or watching the sunset from a tree stand, Detroit's outdoors have the natural beauty and wealth of experiences that recreationists of all interests, skill levels, and backgrounds can explore and enjoy. OUR MISSION The mission of Expedition Detroit is to create and accelerate value for Detroit’s emerging outdoor industry. Our business creates content celebrating our region’s best outdoor experiences, leads guided trips for hands-on exploration of our most beautiful destinations, facilitates access to top tier retailers, amplifies key voices within the recreational community, and highlights the value of an outdoor lifestyle. We vow to always support conservation through promoting impactful organizations, educating our community on landmark laws and regulations, and publicizing volunteer opportunities. OUR PASSION Every business has its own definition of success. Ours is simply the moment when our core belief - that Detroit is a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting - becomes common knowledge on a global scale. Until then, our passion will drive us to continue innovating within Detroit's outdoor industry. We will always aim to create content and share experiences that inspire new adventures, increase recreational opportunities, support outdoor lifestyles, and protect the best of the Detroit region for generations to come. We can’t wait to see you out there. OUR TEAM Dan Cooke Founder & CEO Dan founded Expedition Detroit in 2022 after starting his career in venture capital as an investor and attorney. His passion for the outdoors, conservation, and the Detroit region inspired him to leave big law and create the company that he had always wanted to work for. Dan was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2024 to the Michigan Wildlife Council due to his work with Expedition Detroit. Away from the office, he is a backcountry skier, wilderness backpacker, competitive trail runner, and backwoods hunter. dcooke@expeditiondetroit.com Bria Peterson Trail Guide & Featured Contributor Bria was born and raised in southeast Michigan and grew up enjoying everything about the outdoors. Turning her passion into a job, Bria is now the Natural Resources Volunteer Coordinator at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, where she works to manage and preserve natural areas and wildlife throughout the 25,000-acre park system. Certified as a Firefighter Type II, Bria also works on prescribed burns with the Michigan DNR and David Borneman, LLC. When Bria is not out working in the woods, she's hiking in them! She loves taking her camera out on the trail to capture a unique landscape or a favorite bird. Bria also enjoys camping, salmon fishing, snowboarding, and playing guitar. briapeterson26@gmail.com Dr. Eric Reilly Featured Health Contributor Dr. Reilly is an anesthesiologist born and raised in Southeast Michigan. Dr. Reilly is currently a Staff Anesthesiologist at Corewell Health in Royal Oak, Michigan. Dr. Reilly is also the Chairman of the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists' Committee on Governmental Affairs. When Dr. Reilly isn't in the hospital saving lives, you can find him in the wilderness - or at least try to. The Doc has an unmatched talent for locating the best off-grid backpacking campsites, untouched powder runs, and bedding grounds for Michigan's most elusive whitetails. EricReillyDO@gmail.com Holly Laginess Marketing Specialist Holly is a digital storyteller with experience in travel, sports, and start ups. When Dan introduced the ideas behind Expedition Detroit, she was captivated by it. She is proud to be a part of a team that is focused on inspiring others to explore and experience the greater Detroit area. When Holly isn't in the office working her nine to five, you can find her on the golf course or walking a trail at Kensington Metropark. info@expeditiondetroit.com

Expedition Detroit is your go-to source for original content, guided outdoor adventures, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. ADVENTURE STARTS HERE World-class outdoors. One hour from Downtown Detroit. CHOOSE YOUR EXPEDITION In The Woods On The Water Down The Hill On The Trail On The Hunt START YOUR ADVENTURE join our top-rated guided outdoor trips Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided hiki ng, backpacking, and s nowshoeing tours across all Michigan State Parks BOOK YOUR EXPEDITION Mushroom Madness: Guide to Hunting Morel Mushrooms near Detroit LIFESTYLE Apr 22 The Grandest Tour: One-Day Itinerary to Discover Belle Isle Park's Rich Heritage FEATURED DESTINATIONS Apr 20 9 Reasons why April is the Best Month for Backpacking near Detroit HIKING AND BACKPACKING Apr 7 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout April 2026 OUTDOOR EVENTS Apr 1 Trail Beers: The Ultimate Drinking Guide to Detroit's Outdoors - March 2026 Edition LIFESTYLE Mar 16 Michigan Turkey Hunting Cheatsheet: Guide for Spring 2026 HUNTING Mar 12 MOST RECENT ARTICLES Direct from the field to your feed. EXPLORE MORE WORK WITH US We work with industry-leading brands and hometown retailers alike in our mission towards building a better outdoor ecosystem for Detroit. From retailers to influencers, manufacturers to advocates - if your work creates value for Detroit's outdoor community, then we want to work alongside you. our partners To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. LEARN MORE Subscribe to the Expedition Detroit Newsletter! SIGN UP Thanks for submitting - you have been added to our monthly Newsletter subscriber list. We can't wait to see you out there! the Expedition Detroit Official Store Whether you're in the field, at the gym, or on the couch, we have prepared our favorite threads for your next adventure. Essential Gym Shirt from Under ArmourⓇ Price $38.50 Add to Cart All-Black Athletic Shorts (Unisex) Price $39.99 Add to Cart Under Armour® Men's Polo Price $79.50 Add to Cart Branded Camp Hatchet by Motor City Axe Price $99.99 Add to Cart Deer Camp Hoodie Price $56.00 Add to Cart Branded Camp Axe by Motor City Axe Price $139.99 Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price $21.99 Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Price $22.00 Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Price $40.95 Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Price $54.00 Add to Cart Expedition Fanny Pack Price $32.99 Add to Cart Kids Fleece Hoodie Price $39.50 Add to Cart Quarter-Zip Athletic Sweater Price $116.95 Add to Cart Men’s Columbia Fleece Vest Price $61.00 Add to Cart SHOP FULL STORE About Expedition Detroit READ MORE The Detroit Region: a world-class outdoor destination worth exploring, celebrating, and protecting. That is the core belief of this business, and every aspect of our operations originate from it. Expedition Detroit is your go-to source for original adventure marketing content, guided trips, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. Our sole focus is to support, inspire, and expand Detroit's outdoor community. We can't wait to see you out there. Let's Get Social

Detroit Michigan - Adventure travel blog for the everyday explorer. LIFESTYLE A life spent outdoors captures far more moments than a single hike, bike, or paddle. Our Lifestyle articles highlight the full spectrum of the moments that create an outdoor life. Everything from can't-miss outdoor events to camping hacks, date ideas to trail pups, book lists to the latest outdoor survivalist show that we're binging. Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout April 2026 April means spring, and spring means the return of prime time in Detroit's outdoors! As our trails, campgrounds, and waterways reopen for the masses, these " Top Ten Outdoor Events " will serve as your guide for navigating this month's super-bloom of recreation opportunities - APRIL 2026 EDITION . Congratulations! If you're reading this, then you've successfully survived March , the purgatory of outdoor recreation in the Detroit region. Not quite winter. Not quite spring. J Dan Cooke Apr 1 Trail Beers: The Ultimate Drinking Guide to Detroit's Outdoors - March 2026 Edition Don't be fooling around this April 1st! Several Michigan alcohol restrictions kick in with the turn of the calendar. Don't worry, Detroit trail beer enthusiasts - here's your ultimate guide on how to responsibility - and lawfully - enjoy that crisp, well-deserved post-trail beer! Photo courtesy of River's Edge Brewing Company What do St. Patrick's Day, Game Day, Opening Day, and a "Trail Day" all have in common? They are all best experienced with at least one ice-cold beer Dan Cooke Mar 16 Top 8 Outdoor Events near Detroit - March 2026 Edition Welcome to March : the epitome of "shoulder season" recreation where days can start with a morning cycle and finish with powder skiing. As you navigate this most unpredictable of months, here are the " Top 8 Outdoor Events near Detroit "for capitalizing on March's recreational opportunities! Shoulder. Season. There are no better two words for describing what Detroit region recreationists experience in March when trying to plan for a full day of outdoor experiences. If yo Dan Cooke Mar 2 Golden Days: Key Takeaways from the Winter Olympics for Metro Detroit Happy Victory Week, Detroit - and the rest of the U.S.A.! Now that the 2026 Milan Cortina Games have officially come to a close in historic fashion, here are Team Expedition Detroit's " Key Takeaways from the Winter Olympics " for Metro Detroit's recreational development. Forty-six years, erased in a single flutter of the back of the net. Beating hearts across the world paused to verify the gravity of the moment. Even Jack Hughes, the American hockey player that had release Dan Cooke Feb 25 Michigan to Milano: 12 Olympic Athletes from Metro Detroit in the 2026 Winter Olympics From Canton to Cortina and the Mitten to Milan, here are the 12 Olympic athletes from Metro Detroit representing the red, white, and blue during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy! Dan Cooke Feb 8 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit - February 2026 Edition Love. Trails. Powder. If that trio sounds like an amazing time to you, then a February spent in Detroit's outdoors may become your new favorite month of the year - especially with these " Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit " coming down the pipeline for February 2026! February in Detroit's outdoors typically keeps you guessing . One day you'll have your cross-country skis clipped in or snowshoes strapped on tight, trekking through fresh powder looking for backcountry ski Dan Cooke Feb 3 Top 10 New Year "Outdoor Resolutions" to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors during 2026 Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2026 has FINALLY arrived, here are the Expedition Detroit team's top " New Year's resolutions " to accomplish in Detroit's outdoors this year, covering the most ambitious, exciting, and rewarding experiences that the Detroit region has to offer. There's a simple beauty to the start of a new year. Like a skier ready to drop into a pristine powder run, or a paddler launching into perfectly still water. And for so many New Year adventurers, e Dan Cooke Jan 9 Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2026 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to today's fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals for 2026. We're absolutely STOKED for all that this new year will bring for Detroit's outdoors, starting with these top 10 outdoor events near Detroit this month! There's something beautiful about waking up on the morning of January 1st . The past year's successes and failures are logged into the annals of history. We're all provided Dan Cooke Jan 2 Celebrate the Dark: Five Outdoor Adventures for Experiencing the Winter Solstice near Detroit The grand, festive finale of our #EmbraceTheDark Series, we invite you to join us in celebrating the shortest solar day of the year through one, two, or all of these top 5 experiences for making the most of the 2025 Winter Solstice in Detroit's outdoors . Let's start this article with good news: TOMORROW, December 21st , is one of the best days of the year to get outside . In all respects, it will be a weird day. A very, very short and cold day. The perfect day to carpe diem Dan Cooke Dec 20, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit - December 2025 Edition 'Tis the season for holly, jolly outdoor adventures - and we are stoked for them all! As you navigate the madness of the holidays, here are the top ten outdoor events near Detroit to guide you through this most festive of months. Happy holidays, Detroit! In case you haven't heard, it's the most wonderful time of the year..! And yes, not only because of the holiday season. The Expedition Detroit team is STOKED for a December that's JAM-PACKED with world-class outdoor ev Dan Cooke Dec 2, 2025 Embrace the Dark: The 10 Best Destinations for Stargazing near Detroit The end of daylight saving time means that the Detroit region's shorter, darker days have arrived. Put differently, our region's BEST nights for stargazing are FINALLY BACK. Ready to admire the cosmos, Detroit? Here are the 10 best destinations for stargazing near Detroit - UPDATED FOR SPRING 2026. The Northern Lights above Maybury State Park - May 2024 Have you ever felt like the harder you try for a goal, the less likely you are to achieve it? If you have, you're far from a Dan Cooke Nov 4, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout November 2025 The leaves and temperatures may be rapidly dropping, but the Detroit region's outdoor events calendar will stay vibrant throughout November. Here is the Expedition Detroit rundown of the top ten outdoor events near Detroit that we're STOKED about experiencing. Happy Turkey Month, Detroit! You heard it here first: November is the most underrated month for outdoor recreation throughout the ENTIRE year . While some may be tempted to view this month as a " shoulder season " - th Dan Cooke Oct 31, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout October 2025 October means that FALL IS BACK IN DETROIT, along with your favorite autumnal traditions, seasonal treats, and the BEST opportunity to experience your favorite parks, trails, and waterways. With all of Detroit's outdoor ecosystem waiting for your arrival, here's our short list of the Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit during the best month of the year! Dan Cooke Sep 30, 2025 Fall 2025 Preview: Elite 8 Outdoor Experiences near Detroit to Enjoy 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 " Elite 8 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 our hot take there, well, please hear u Dan Cooke Sep 23, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout September 2025 Summer vacations may have ended, but Detroit's primetime outdoor events season is just kicking off! Here are September's " Top Ten... Dan Cooke Sep 4, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout July 2025 JULY IS OFF WITH A BANG! With our area's recreational opportunities exploding with incredible events this month, we have zeroed in on... Dan Cooke Jul 1, 2025 Five Best Campgrounds Near Detroit to Experience during Summer 2025 June has FINALLY arrived and campers all across the Detroit region are packing up to find their resting spots under the stars. Just in time for peaking camping season, here's our breakdown of the Top Five Campgrounds near Detroit for Summer 2025! BREAKING NEWS: there are incredible campgrounds near Detroit. For most of our passionate following, this shouldn't be a surprise. In fact, almost all of the Detroit region's most beloved Michigan State Parks and Huron-Clinton Metropa Dan Cooke Jun 10, 2025 Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit - May 2025 Edition Detroit's outdoor floodgates are open! May's arrival signals the launch of "primetime" for our region's recreational ecosystem, and these " Top 10 Outdoor Events near Detroit " are perfect for exploring the wealth of outdoor experiences waiting for you this May. Guess what...it's gonna be May (in Detroit's outdoors). What does that mean exactly? In the Detroit region, that means the floodgates of outdoor recreation are flung wide open. An endless smorgasbord of races, family Dan Cooke Apr 30, 2025 Spring 2025 Preview: Top Outdoor Experiences near Detroit this Season Happy Spring, Detroit! With our darkest days finally behind us, outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to increasingly more daylight to explore our region's parks, trails, and waterways. As you start to charter your way through this Spring, here our top 7 outdoor experiences near Detroit for you to conquer this season! There's nothing quite like spring in Detroit. After a long winter, you can actually feel the season's arrival. It's that first morning where you open the do Dan Cooke Apr 3, 2025 The March Survival Guide for Metro Detroit's Outdoor Enthusiasts - 2025 Edition Is it winter or spring..? Nobody in the Detroit region really knows, especially the month of March. Regardless of this month's conditions, here is our March Survival Guide: 5 tips for surviving, and dare we say thriving, during the most unpredictable month of the recreational year. The idea for this article struck me exactly three years ago today, as I stared at the muddy soup that had previously resembled the Milford Mountain Biking Trail. The trail was simply unrideable, so Dan Cooke Mar 6, 2025 Explore the Cozy Life: Best Destinations for Glamping near Detroit - Winter 2025 Edition Who says that winter camping has to be a suffer fest? Here we invite you take sit back, warm up, and explore the cozy side of camping... Dan Cooke Jan 17, 2025 Make 2025 Your Healthiest AND Most Adventurous Year with Expedition Detroit's Guided Hiking Bundles! Looking to FINALLY accomplish your New Year's Resolutions of living a healthier and more adventurous lifestyle? Your search is over -... Dan Cooke Jan 13, 2025 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout December 2024 'Tis the season for holly, jolly outdoor adventures - and we are stoked for them all! As you navigate the madness of the holidays, here... Dan Cooke Dec 4, 2024 Vote the Outdoors: How the 2024 Elections Could Impact Outdoor Recreation in Michigan Elections fundamentally shape the future of outdoor recreation within the Detroit region and across the United States. As Michiganders... Dan Cooke Nov 4, 2024 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit remaining in October 2024 October means that FALL IS BACK IN DETROIT, along with your favorite autumnal traditions, seasonal treats, and the optimal opportunity... Dan Cooke Oct 15, 2024 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout September 2024 Summer vacations may have ended, but Detroit's primetime outdoor events season for not only September, but the whole year, is just... Dan Cooke Sep 6, 2024 Where the Wild Things Grow: Edible Plants for Easy Foraging in Southeast Michigan Welcome to peak foraging season, Detroit! Here's the Expedition Detroit guide on adding some flavor to your hikes by highlighting seven edible plants for easy foraging in Southeast Michigan (and beyond). "I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it." Each of us can probably think of an item or two that pops into our mind after reading that statement. For an outdoor enthusiast, that statement typically enters our vernacular when planning for an extended out Expedition Detroit Jul 29, 2024 Embrace the "Hygge" Life: Discover Detroit's Cozy Outdoor Comforts this Summer Cozy yurts. Relaxed forest bathing. Bountiful farmers markets. Welcome to the Hygge life, Detroit! Just in time for another beautiful... Expedition Detroit Jul 19, 2024 Tick, Tick, BOOM: Tracking Lyme Disease's Growth in Michigan - and How to Avoid It Summer in Detroit is BACK with open season for backpacking, gravel biking, hiking... and picking up a tick or two along the way . Have no fear - Expedition Detroit is here with an intro on our regional pest and steps you can take to stay safe from Lyme disease this summer! Summer is in full swing and Michiganders have taken to the outdoors to take advantage of guided hikes, lake-life, biking trails, and…… TICKS!?! That’s right, folks. The beauty of Michigan summers is unmat Eric Reilly, DO Jul 1, 2024 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout June 2025 Brace yourselves... SUMMER IN DETROIT IS BACK!! With the floodgates wide open for amazing outdoor experiences this June, we have nailed down these " Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit " for kicking off your perfect summer spent outdoors! "So Dan...what even is there to do around Detroit?" A close friend currently living in Los Angeles asked me that question a few months back, and I nearly did a spit-take as my initial response. Instead, I blankly stared back for a few moment Dan Cooke Jun 4, 2024 RECENT LIFESTYLE ARTICLES

Detroit Michigan Hiking & Backpacking Trails - Adventure travel blog for the everyday explorer. HIKING AND BACKPACKING Believe the hype: Detroit is on track to become the international hiking capital of North America. From favorite short out-and-backs to multi-day backpacking treks, check back here regularly for hiking and backpacking route guides, gear reviews, trailside hacks, and everything in between. We can’t wait to see you out there. BOOK AN ADVENTURE 9 Reasons why April is the Best Month for Backpacking near Detroit We've done the fieldwork. The results are in. Here's our argument for why April is the best month for backpacking near Detroit! Dan Cooke Apr 7 9 min read Autumn Adventures: 5 Best Destinations for Fall Camping near Detroit Fall has FINALLY arrived in Southeast Michigan, and there's no better way to enjoy its vibrant colors and teeming wildlife than spending a night (or two) immersed in the season's glory. Don't miss the fleeting opportunity to experience these 5 best destinations for fall camping near Detroit - updated for FALL 2025 . "Blink and you'll miss it." While I'd be lying if I said that phrase doesn't trigger at least some degree of "FOMO" anxiety, I can't think of an instance where Dan Cooke Oct 7, 2025 6 min read Ghosts on the Trail: Famous Haunted Hikes throughout Metro Detroit This Halloween season, lace up your boots - and pack in some extra courage - for exploring these six notoriously haunted hikes in the Detroit region's most eery outdoor destinations - updated for October 2025! October in Michigan engages all of the senses. The warming smell of damp leaves in the morning sun. The vibrant sight of a maple in full regalia. The tangible crunch of a fallen leaf along your favorite trail. A fleeting glimpse of something moving through the evenin Dan Cooke Oct 3, 2025 10 min read Explore the 5 Most Popular Trails for Guided Hiking near Detroit - Fall 2025 Edition Welcome home, Detroit's outdoor community! Looking for new "Back-to-School Trails" to experience with the whole family? We've got you... Dan Cooke Sep 10, 2025 7 min read Detroit to the Dolomites: Key Takeaways from Hiking in the Italian Alps Buongiorno, Detroit! Team Expedition Detroit recently returned from hiking the famous "Alta Via 1" trail through the Italian Dolomites.... Dan Cooke Aug 29, 2025 12 min read A Hidden Treasure: Explore the Richardson Trail at Brighton Recreation Area Join us for a hike as we discover the Richardson Trail at Brighton Recreation Area! This lesser-known route travels through undisturbed forest and unique landscapes, providing a glimpse into Michigan's rich natural history. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for some peace and quiet, the Richardson Trail is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired! The chirping of crickets and frogs echo through the woodland as I take my first few steps on the Richardson Bria Sheffer Aug 26, 2025 5 min read Expedition Essentials: Hammock Camping Gear for Summer 2025 No tent, no problem! Here we provide our #ExpeditionEssentials on the best gear, health benefits, and opportunities in the Detroit region... Dan Cooke Jun 24, 2025 6 min read The 5 Summits: Conquering the Five Most Iconic Hilltops near Detroit 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 appe Dan Cooke Apr 10, 2025 8 min read Explore the Cozy Life: Best Destinations for Glamping near Detroit - Winter 2025 Edition Who says that winter camping has to be a suffer fest? Here we invite you take sit back, warm up, and explore the cozy side of camping... Dan Cooke Jan 17, 2025 6 min read Make 2025 Your Healthiest AND Most Adventurous Year with Expedition Detroit's Guided Hiking Bundles! Looking to FINALLY accomplish your New Year's Resolutions of living a healthier and more adventurous lifestyle? Your search is over -... Dan Cooke Jan 13, 2025 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Summiting Highland's Rugged Mt. Kanzer Trail Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition summits the heights of the Detroit region's resident "high lands" - the rugged Mt. Kanzer Trail of Highland State Recreation Area . Join us as we explore one of Southeast Michigan's most unknown and highest points! Why do we need trails? If you're as passionate about the outdoors as I am, that question may seem laughable on its face. Ridiculous even. A gut reaction like that is to be expected when trails have becom Dan Cooke Nov 26, 2024 10 min read The Potawatomi Trail: Rediscovering Detroit's First Backpacking Loop Sixty years of POTO! In honor of the Potawatomi Trail's anniversary, we retraced the bootprints and tire marks of generations of Detroit's greatest outdoor enthusiasts along one of our region's most beloved trails. "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." This quote from tennis player Arthur Ashe is beautiful in its simplicity and applicability. Whether you're building a business, strengthening a relationship, or just conjuring the motivation to get out of Dan Cooke Jun 20, 2024 12 min read 5 Amazing Ways Guided Hike Tours Elevate Your Outdoor Experience Looking to shake up your everyday life with new adventures - especially right here in Metro Detroit? Look no further - here are the amazing ways that a guided hike tour will elevate your outdoor experience! Claire was so nervous that she almost didn’t go. The butterflies crept up from her stomach and up into her throat. With a deep breath, she pushed herself out of the car and walked to the trailhead to meet the group. Claire had wanted to get into hiking and other “outdoo Expedition Detroit May 2, 2024 6 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring Brighton's Secluded Kahchin Trail Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition treks across Brighton Recreation Area's "hiding in plain sight" gem: the Kahchin Trail . Join us as we explore deep into the heart of Brighton's woodlands along this short-but-sweet trail! Sometimes I dread Saturday mornings. That may read as blasphemous or ludicrous on face value. Allow me to elaborate. On a rainy weekday, most adults have their schedule more or less locked in for the day. They wake up, shower, head to Dan Cooke Mar 12, 2024 8 min read Hike Further, Live Longer: The Medical Benefits of Hiking Detroit’s Trails Written by Dr. Eric Reilly, here we thoroughly examine one of the most pressing health risks in the Detroit region - chronic physical inactivity - and the profound medical benefits of hiking your favorite trails! This Halloween, I wanted to share a true tale of terror that haunts the Detroit area’s medical community . A silent killer that moves undetected through each of its neighborhoods. A verifiable infliction that thrives within its host for years before it rears its ugl Eric Reilly, DO Oct 31, 2023 6 min read Meet Rucking: The Perfect Trail Sport for Offseason Recreation Born out of military boot camp training, the physical and mental benefits of "Rucking" is taking the recreational community by storm!... Dan Cooke Oct 20, 2023 7 min read The Best Fall Hikes near Detroit for Experiencing Peak Colors Don't let the heat fool you - October's cooler temperatures are coming, along with the vibrant foliage that will decorate our parks, trails, and waterways! Updated for Fall 2025, here are Expedition Detroit's 5 best fall hikes for experiencing peak colors this season. Happy hiking! Fellow trail enthusiasts and fall foliage aficionados, we have incredible news for you. In the words of the great Rafiki: "It is time." Well...it is almost time. While the original predictions for Dan Cooke Oct 6, 2023 5 min read Expedition Essentials: Trail Running Shoes vs. Hiking Boots One of the most divisive - and impactful - issues of the outdoor community, here we dive into the "Great Trail Debate" on when and why you should lace up trail running shoes or hiking boots for your next adventure. #ExpeditionEssentials "This feels heavy." I said those words audibly at approximately 10:40 P.M. and 8ish miles into my thru-hike of the Chief Pontiac Trail . For anyone who has backpacked with me in the past, those words may come as a surprise. To this day, my Dan Cooke Aug 16, 2023 6 min read Explore these 10 National Parks near Detroit this Summer Still looking to embark on an epic summer road trip? Look no further - these 10 national parks near Detroit provide idyllic outdoor destinations to satisfy your regional wanderlust. Hint: don't forget your passport! We have a confession to make: the Expedition Detroit team was largely not in the Detroit area last week. As our social media following is already well-aware, we spent last week on a road trip back to Detroit from Bozeman, Montana. A multi-day adventure spent explo Dan Cooke Jul 31, 2023 7 min read Thru-Hiking the Chief Pontiac Trail, Pt. II: Proud Lake to Kensington Along the banks of the Huron River and through the towering pines of Proud Lake, we retraced the generational footsteps of one of the Detroit region's oldest backpacking routes: the Chief Pontiac Trail. Join us on this concluding Part 2 of this series that follows this classic Michigan hiking trail from Proud Lake to Kensington Metropark! Pro tip: try to get more than 3 hours of recovery sleep in the middle of a ~20 mile thru-hike. The key word there is "try." Two of our more Dan Cooke Jul 20, 2023 8 min read (Un)Happy Campers: Five Guaranteed Ways to Piss Off a Campground Based on a recent personal tale of woe, here are five key takeaways from one particular couple's masterclass on how to turn hundreds of... Dan Cooke Jul 14, 2023 7 min read Thru-Hiking the Chief Pontiac Trail, Pt. I: Highland to Proud Lake From the heights of Mt. Omich to the lowlands of the Huron River, we retraced the generational footsteps of one of the Detroit region's oldest backpacking routes: the Chief Pontiac Trail. Join us on Part 1 of this series as we traverse this classic Michigan hiking trail from Highland to Proud Lake! "There's no way that it was like this in the 1950s." I say those words audibly to myself as yet another set of headlights blind me along Wixom Trail. It's just past 10 p.m., and I' Dan Cooke Jul 13, 2023 11 min read The Detroit Mountains: Exploring the Jackson Interlobate Range Home of the Detroit region's best mountain biking trails, ski runs, backpacking ridges, and hiking gems, this article explores the past and present of the "Detroit Mountains"- southeast Michigan's glacial Jackson Interlobate Range. Growing up, I liked reading maps. We're talking battlefield maps, geographic encyclopedias - even fake maps from fictional worlds like Middle Earth, Kanto/Johto, and Narnia. Yes, I'm also the geography nerd on my local bar trivia team, and we've go Dan Cooke Jun 27, 2023 7 min read Explore Michigan Backpacking with Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear In a world where ounces equal pounds - and pounds equal pain - here's why you should treat yourself for peak hiking season this summer with CTUG's Michigan-made ultralight gear! #ExpeditionPartner "Yeah man, your kit is definitely looking a bit heavy." Those were extremely generous words from Austin Gongos , cofounder and one of the "Main Dirtbags" of U.P.-based Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear ("CTUG") . We first connected literally days after I completed a thru-backpacking t Dan Cooke Jun 16, 2023 5 min read INTRODUCING: GUIDED OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Expedition Detroit is proud to announce that we are now leading guided hiking, backpacking, and trail running outdoor adventure trips across ELEVEN Michigan state parks near Detroit! Learn more about our trips - and how to book your next local adventure - here. "When are you guys going to start leading guided trips?" If we had a nickel for every time that we've heard that question, well, let's just say that business would be booming. Since the launch of Expedition Detroit Dan Cooke Jun 13, 2023 6 min read #TrailTuesday: Rediscovering Proud Lake's Wild Northwestern Loops Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition explores two of the most controversial, diverse, beautiful, and fun trails... Dan Cooke Jun 6, 2023 8 min read Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 3: The Finale in Pinckney In honor of Earth Week, we embraced the challenge of thru-hiking the Detroit's region's most rigorous backpacking route: the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This third and final installation of our Waterloo-Pinckney Trail series covers the entirety of the Pinckney section of the trail - 14 miles of challenges, triumphs, pain, and euphoria. "Hey Pops - it's gonna be another hour or so...sorry. Today's been a wild card." Those were probably the last words that my jet-lagged father wan Dan Cooke May 9, 2023 9 min read Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 2: Crossing the Highlands In honor of Earth Week, we embraced the challenge of thru-hiking the Detroit's region's most rigorous backpacking route: the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This second installment of our series on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail traverses the most strenuous terrain of the entire journey - as well as discovering welcomed surprises to ease the "Survival Day." Rainstorms while camping: possibly the greatest paradox in the backpacking experience. On one hand, you'll never find a better "wh Dan Cooke May 2, 2023 7 min read Thru-Hiking the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Pt. 1: Embracing Solitude In honor of Earth Week, we embraced the challenge of thru-hiking the Detroit's region's most rigorous backpacking route: the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This first installment of our 3 part series on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail highlights the trail's initial physical and psychological impressions - especially on solo hikers. Every journey has its beginning, and this 38-mile one started in a basement. Next to a gas-lit fireplace. My parents' basement fireplace to be exact, during Dan Cooke Apr 26, 2023 10 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Famous Penosha Trail in Brighton Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition treks across one of the Detroit region's most beloved trails - if not THE most beloved trail - Brighton Recreation Area's Penosha Trail. Join us as we rediscover this iconic trail. "Pace yourself, Lucy - the climb is coming." My trail pup pauses for a second to look at me, confused why I'm slowing down our pace as we're hiking through a rolling, mature oak forest. We are roughly two miles in at this point, and she's clear Dan Cooke Apr 18, 2023 8 min read Top Five Outdoor Destinations near Detroit: Spring 2023 Edition Brace yourself - the super bloom is coming! As spring continues to gradually reclaim its domain over Detroit's revitalized environment, here are the "Top 5 Outdoor Destinations" for experiencing the best days of the season. Wildflowers. Morels. Wetlands. Turkeys. And trails. Lots and lots of trails. When we think of spring in the Detroit region , that list forms the crème de la crème of our seasonal outdoor highlights. Regardless of whether you're heading into the trails to Dan Cooke Apr 10, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Wilderness Trail Loop in Holly Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition journeys to the Detroit region's northernmost destination - Holly Recreation Area - and its quintessential Wilderness Trail Loop. We invite you to explore this oasis of wilderness on our metropolitan frontier! "Wilderness in Oakland County - alright, I definitely need to check this one out." Those were my thoughts as I first read about Holly Recreation Area's famous "Wilderness Trail Loop" in Jim DuFresne's 50 Hikes in Mi Dan Cooke Apr 4, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Braving Highland Recreation Area's A-B-C-D Loops Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition tackles the only "Black Diamond" rated trail within our series: the rugged and respected hills of Highland Recreation Area's "A-B-C-D" loops. Check out what draws Detroit's best mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers flock to these alphabet loops all year long. "BEST DAY EVER." Those are the three words that I force myself to say - audibly - whenever I get back on my feet after flipping over the handle bars o Dan Cooke Mar 21, 2023 6 min read Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Amherstburg, Ontario After a brief hiatus, our #TrailTownSpotlight series is back! This edition crosses the border to explore the outdoor gems of Amherstburg, Ontario - possibly the single most historic recreational trail town in the Great Lakes region. All roads lead to Amherstburg, Ontario. Or at least that's our lingering sentiment after researching the Detroit region's outdoors over the past several months. Allow us to explain. Our first encounter with colonial Amherstburg dates back to our a Dan Cooke Mar 20, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring Detroit's Dequindre Cut Greenway Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition digs into the sole "Top 50" trail within our namesake city - the Dequindre... Dan Cooke Mar 7, 2023 4 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Maybury State Park Hiking Trail Loop Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition digs into one of the most popular trails in the entire Detroit region - a well deserved designation - within the heart of Maybury State Park. Join us as we traverse the rolling hills and expansive wetlands of Maybury! Have you ever experienced the joy - and frustration - of recognizing that something beautiful was hiding in plain sight? Maybe you finally realized that an old friend from your school years also const Dan Cooke Feb 21, 2023 6 min read #TrailTuesday: Point Pelee Marsh Boardwalk Trail Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition explores the Detroit region's sole "Top 50" trail that's south of the... Dan Cooke Feb 14, 2023 6 min read #TrailTuesday: West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve Trail Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition explores the highland loops of the West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve, a forested oasis amidst the abundant lakes of West Bloomfield Township, Michigan. "Hey Dan, have you ever explored the West Bloomfield Nature Preserve?" This question from my uncle at first seemed to spring out of left field, but I've come to accept that wearing any Expedition Detroit merch now constitutes a public invitation for any and all Dan Cooke Feb 7, 2023 6 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Newburgh Lakeview Trail in Livonia Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition traverses the lakeside bluffs, forested ravines, and panoramic views of the... Dan Cooke Jan 31, 2023 7 min read Winter Trails: Snowshoeing vs. Cross-Country Skiing vs. Snow Hiking Just when any dreams of deep powder days had diminished to a fool's hope, January has delivered with over a foot of snow over the last... Dan Cooke Jan 28, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Proud Lake State Recreation Area's Figure 8 Loops Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition criss-crosses the Huron River on Proud Lake State Recreation Area's Marsh,... Dan Cooke Jan 24, 2023 5 min read Blood on the Ice: Remembering the Battle of River Raisin Two hundred and ten years ago today, the bloodiest battle ever fought on Michigan soil came to a close, resulting in the United States'... Dan Cooke Jan 22, 2023 10 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring Novi Lakeshore Park's Multi-Trail Welcome to the first installation of our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! Located just south of Walled Lake, this inaugural installation... Dan Cooke Jan 10, 2023 5 min read Top 10 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2023 has arrived in full regalia, here are the Expedition Detroit Team's New Year's resolutions,... Dan Cooke Jan 7, 2023 12 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals... Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2022 7 min read Expedition Essentials: 5 Basic Skills for Winter Survival In recognition of this winter's inaugural snow storm, this edition of our #ExpeditionEssentials Series focuses on five essential survival... Dan Cooke Dec 28, 2022 10 min read Embrace the Dark Pt. III: Best Night Hiking Trails near Detroit The third installment of our #EmbraceTheDark Series, we're exploring the best night hiking trails near Detroit. Spoiler alert: most of... Dan Cooke Dec 17, 2022 8 min read Embrace the Dark Pt. II: Essential Night Gear for Nocturnal Explorers Sunset marks the starting gate for a whole new genre of adventure, although with one major caveat: it's dark outside. Have no fear,... Dan Cooke Dec 10, 2022 9 min read Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Northville, Michigan The second installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're highlighting the best features of Northville, Michigan for every hometown outdoor enthusiast. Check out why we are celebrating this oasis of adventure opportunities within the heart of the Detroit region! If you take a quick look at the map on our Destinations page, one overarching aspect includes that the majority of Detroit's premiere outdoor opportunities are found along the outer rim of our region. Geography Dan Cooke Nov 29, 2022 7 min read Introducing #EmbraceTheDark: A New Series on Exploring at Night In honor of the upcoming darkest month of the year surrounding the Winter Solstice, we are launching a new series focusing on the Detroit... Dan Cooke Nov 22, 2022 4 min read RECENT ARTICLES

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

Expedition Detroit is an outdoor recreation media company focused exclusively on outdoor experiences within an hour’s drive of Downtown Detroit. EARN referral discounts WITH Get a 10% discount on your session Apply reward when placing your first order. USE MY REWARD Get a 25% discount for each friend you refer Earn special perks for you and your friends on your next Expedition Detroit adventure! Give your friends a 10% discount. Get a 25% discount for each friend who books a session. Log in to refer * Applies to the lowest priced item in the cart.

Detroit Michigan Hunting - Adventure travel blog for the everyday explorer. HUNTING White Tail Deer. Duck. Squirrel. Turkey. Regardless of your hunt, we have content to inspire, educate, facilitate, and support your next adventure. Track back here regularly for articles on hunting equipment, techniques, stories, and regulations. Expedition Detroit is proud to support the mission of the Michigan Wildlife Council Learn More Michigan Turkey Hunting Cheatsheet: Guide for Spring 2026 Spring's arrival includes a symphony of bird songs - including the coveted turkey gobble for Detroit's conservationists. Here is Expedition Detroit's breakdown of the locations, dates, equipment, and special regulations - updated for the 2026 spring Michigan turkey hunting season ! It's a perfect spring morning on your favorite trail. A pleasant 60º temperature with a bluebird sky backdrop, contrasted only by the budding greens, whites, pinks, and purples of the flowering t Dan Cooke Mar 12 6 min read Opening Day Checklist for Michigan's 2025 Whitetail Deer Firearm Season Michigan's Opening Day for the 2025 whitetail deer firearm season is this Saturday, November 15th ! As you finalize your deer camp preparation, here are 5 essential checklist items for every hunter to cross-off before heading into the woods - as well as 7 safety tips for non-hunters on recreating during firearm season. Friday, November 14th, 2025. 8 o'clock in the morning. The forests and fields throughout the Great State of Michigan are calm under the shroud of overcast ski Dan Cooke Nov 12, 2025 10 min read The Ultimate Michigan Hunting Cheatsheet - Fall 2025 Edition Fall means primetime in Detroit's outdoors - especially for the Michigan hunting community ready for crisp mornings and cool evenings in... Dan Cooke Sep 5, 2025 7 min read Conservation in Action: Support your Outdoors and Community at "DOEnation Metro Detroit" Whitetail Deer Season in Michigan may have reached its final week, BUT there's still plenty of time left to contribute to charitable... Dan Cooke Jan 23, 2025 5 min read Hunting Hard Knocks, Pt. 2: Michigan Needs You to Harvest a Doe In honor of the arrival of peak hunting season in Michigan, we're continuing our series on true - yet controversial - considerations for... Dan Cooke Oct 3, 2024 5 min read Hunting Hard Knocks, Pt. 1: The Necessity of Hunting for Michigan In honor of the arrival of peak hunting season in Michigan, we're launching a two-part series on true - yet controversial -... Dan Cooke Nov 10, 2023 8 min read Top 10 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2023 has arrived in full regalia, here are the Expedition Detroit Team's New Year's resolutions,... Dan Cooke Jan 7, 2023 12 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals... Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2022 7 min read Aim to "Leave No Trace" this (and every) Hunting Season Michigan's preeminent hunting event - firearm whitetail deer season - is in full swing, meaning that generations of hunters are making... Dan Cooke Nov 20, 2022 5 min read Expedition Essentials: Bowhunting Gear for Michigan Deer Season Bowhunting season for whitetail deer is in full swing throughout the Detroit region! Here are the five essential bowhunting gear items that you will need to get you off of the couch and into the woods. #ExpeditionEssentials In case you missed it, Michigan and Ontario’s bowhunting seasons for whitetail deer kicked off on October 1st, while Ohio has been in-season since September 24th. For us Michigan hunters, the start of bow season is the de facto gateway to fall. Despite a Dan Cooke Oct 25, 2022 6 min read The Ultimate Michigan Hunting Cheatsheet - Fall 2022 Edition Expedition Detroit's breakdown of the species, dates, equipment, and special regulations for this year's hunting season. Dan Cooke Oct 4, 2022 4 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout October 2022 Overview of the top ten outdoor events that we're looking forward to during our favorite month of the year. Happy Fall! I’ve said it... Dan Cooke Oct 1, 2022 5 min read RECENT ARTICLES

Expedition Detroit is an outdoor recreation media company focused exclusively on outdoor experiences within an hour’s drive of Downtown Detroit. EARN COMMISSIONS WITH EASY TO EARN. FREE TO SIGN UP. SUPPORTS SMALL BUSINESS AND DETROIT'S OUTDOORS . JOIN OUR AFFILIATE PROGRAM Earn commissions from promoting Expedition Detroit guided trips and store products!

Detroit Michigan Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, and other Winter Sports - adventure travel blog for the everyday explorer. WINTER SPORTS Winter is one of Detroit's greatest assets - the most undervalued gift of living and recreating in the north. Spend a morning carving fresh tracks down a perfectly-groomed slope. Or blazing your own trail through powder in snowshoes or cross-country skis. Circle back here regularly to learn more about Detroit's best wintry adventures. BOOK A SNOWSHOE TREK Golden Days: Key Takeaways from the Winter Olympics for Metro Detroit Happy Victory Week, Detroit - and the rest of the U.S.A.! Now that the 2026 Milan Cortina Games have officially come to a close in historic fashion, here are Team Expedition Detroit's " Key Takeaways from the Winter Olympics " for Metro Detroit's recreational development. Forty-six years, erased in a single flutter of the back of the net. Beating hearts across the world paused to verify the gravity of the moment. Even Jack Hughes, the American hockey player that had release Dan Cooke Feb 25 9 min read Trailblaze Detroit: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of Detroit's Ski Resorts 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 Dan Cooke Feb 20 9 min read Michigan to Milano: 12 Olympic Athletes from Metro Detroit in the 2026 Winter Olympics From Canton to Cortina and the Mitten to Milan, here are the 12 Olympic athletes from Metro Detroit representing the red, white, and blue during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy! Dan Cooke Feb 8 7 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Winter Camping near Detroit - 2026 Edition Now that a proper "Michigan Winter" has returned, the Detroit region is in peak condition for winter camping expeditions! Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and best practices for your next winter camping adventure near Detroit. "Ah, so this most qualify as 'snowing' out here." I said those words mockingly as flurries started to drift down from the overcast skies at Grand Canyon National Park. It was early March in northern Arizona, and my Dan Cooke Jan 27 11 min read According to Strava: 5 Most Popular Trails for Nordic Skiing near Detroit The powder is BACK in Detroit, inspiring the multitude of our resident Strava athletes to clip into their skis and hit the trails! Wondering where they might be heading? In this first installment of our new #AccordingtoStrava series, we highlight the "5 Most Popular Trails for Nordic Skiing near Detroit" per Strava data - as well as recommended gear and tips for new skiers! Dan Cooke Jan 14 11 min read The Winter Arc: Core Health Benefits of Cold Weather Exercise Embrace your "Winter Arc," Detroit! Here are the core health benefits that you can obtain from cold weather exercise this winter , including our top recommendations for experiencing new activities in the Detroit region's world-class outdoors. You can always smell it first. Long before the Detroit region's trails and forests become adorned in white, or even the first frost glistens across an open field. Several weeks prior to the industrial activation of a chair lift or searc Dan Cooke Dec 23, 2025 9 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Snowshoeing Near Detroit FINALLY - a TRUE DETROIT WINTER is BACK , complete with deep powder and ideal conditions for snowshoeing. Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for venturing into snowshoeing near Detroit! " Dude - what even is snowshoeing? " I heard that question, give or take a few variations, several times within a 48 hour period. I had just led Expedition Detroit's first ever guided snowshoe tour for two first-timers, so I naturally couldn't pas Dan Cooke Dec 18, 2025 8 min read Guide to Experiencing the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - Winter 2026 Edition Alpine. Brighton. Holly. Pine Knob. You know them, you've skied them, and generations have loved them. But what makes each resort stand out from the pack? Are there any special features, offerings, or other traits that could influence buying one lift ticket over another? We dive into these questions and more in our official Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - updated for the Winter 2026 Season! Ladies and gentlemen, it's time. Sharpen your skis, wax your boards Dan Cooke Dec 4, 2025 8 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Cross-Country Skiing Near Detroit Tundra Season is BACK in Detroit, unveiling unprecedented opportunities to dive into one of our region's favorite recreational pastimes: cross-country skiing. Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for launching into cross-country skiing near Detroit! We've said it once, twice, and will probably say it a million times more: Winter is one of the Detroit region's greatest recreational assets. Yes, we know that the real-feel temperature Dan Cooke Jan 22, 2025 8 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout December 2024 'Tis the season for holly, jolly outdoor adventures - and we are stoked for them all! As you navigate the madness of the holidays, here... Dan Cooke Dec 4, 2024 8 min read Best of Spring Skiing: Experience these 5 Premiere Ski Resorts Driving Distance from Detroit this Spring Detroit's snow may have disappeared this month, but don't worry - ski season isn't over yet! Fortunately there are plenty of premiere winter destinations within driving distance of the Motor City where the lifts are still running. Check out these 5 world-class ski resorts driving distance from Detroit to close out your ski season! Here's a forgetful fact: March is predominantly a winter month. For our community of hikers, paddlers, and mountain bikers, that's certainly not a Dan Cooke Mar 7, 2024 4 min read Why Detroit Should Adopt Norway's "Friluftsliv" Lifestyle this Winter In honor of the Winter Solstice, here is Expedition Detroit's guide to harnessing the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of Norway's transformative "Friluftsliv" approach to winter recreation. " Yeah ...these definitely aren't waterproof." It's 9 a.m. sharp and I've just reached the Vidden trailhead in Europe's rainiest city: Bergen, Norway . A ~10 mile trek across the roof of Bergen lies ahead, starting with 1,300 steps to reach Bergen's highest point, Ulriken. I had Dan Cooke Dec 21, 2023 11 min read Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - WINTER 2024 EDITION Brighton. Alpine. Holly. Pine Knob. You know them, you've skied them, and generations have loved them. But what makes each resort stand out from the pack? Are there any special features, offerings, or other traits that could influence buying one lift ticket over another? We dive into these questions and more in our official Guide to the "Big Four" Ski Resorts near Detroit - UPDATED FOR THE WINTER 2024 SEASON! Ladies and gentlemen, it's officially time to sharpen your skis, w Dan Cooke Dec 18, 2023 8 min read Battle of the Buckets: The Best Ski Helmets of Winter 2023 There's nothing like an early March snowstorm to remind Detroit that ski season isn't over! If you are looking to hit the slopes for the... Dan Cooke Mar 3, 2023 4 min read Winter Trails: Snowshoeing vs. Cross-Country Skiing vs. Snow Hiking Just when any dreams of deep powder days had diminished to a fool's hope, January has delivered with over a foot of snow over the last... Dan Cooke Jan 28, 2023 7 min read Top 10 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2023 has arrived in full regalia, here are the Expedition Detroit Team's New Year's resolutions,... Dan Cooke Jan 7, 2023 12 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals... Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2022 7 min read Expedition Essentials: 5 Basic Skills for Winter Survival In recognition of this winter's inaugural snow storm, this edition of our #ExpeditionEssentials Series focuses on five essential survival... Dan Cooke Dec 28, 2022 10 min read Embrace the Dark Pt. III: Best Night Hiking Trails near Detroit The third installment of our #EmbraceTheDark Series, we're exploring the best night hiking trails near Detroit. Spoiler alert: most of... Dan Cooke Dec 17, 2022 8 min read Embrace the Dark Pt. II: Essential Night Gear for Nocturnal Explorers Sunset marks the starting gate for a whole new genre of adventure, although with one major caveat: it's dark outside. Have no fear,... Dan Cooke Dec 10, 2022 9 min read RECENT ARTICLES

Prepare for your next Detroit, Michigan adventure with all the best outdoor recreation gear you might need. EXPEDITION DETROIT STORE FROM THE FIELD TO THE HOMESTEAD , OUR ONLINE STORE HAS THE CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES FOR EVERY PHASE OF YOUR ADVENTURES. SHOP NOW Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Winter Camping near Detroit - 2026 Edition Now that a proper "Michigan Winter" has returned, the Detroit region is in peak condition for winter camping expeditions! Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and best practices for your next winter camping adventure near Detroit. "Ah, so this most qualify as 'snowing' out here." I said those words mockingly as flurries started to drift down from the overcast skies at Grand Canyon National Park. It was early March in northern Arizona, and my Dan Cooke Jan 27 11 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Snowshoeing Near Detroit FINALLY - a TRUE DETROIT WINTER is BACK , complete with deep powder and ideal conditions for snowshoeing. Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for venturing into snowshoeing near Detroit! " Dude - what even is snowshoeing? " I heard that question, give or take a few variations, several times within a 48 hour period. I had just led Expedition Detroit's first ever guided snowshoe tour for two first-timers, so I naturally couldn't pas Dan Cooke Dec 18, 2025 8 min read Expedition Essentials: Hammock Camping Gear for Summer 2025 No tent, no problem! Here we provide our #ExpeditionEssentials on the best gear, health benefits, and opportunities in the Detroit region... Dan Cooke Jun 24, 2025 6 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Gravel Biking Near Detroit Gravel biking is taking the recreational world by storm - especially right here in the Great Lakes region. New to gravel biking? We've got you covered with our #ExpeditionEssentials ultimate guide to the best gear and trail destinations for gravel biking near Detroit! Photo courtesy of Coast to Coast – Gravel Grinder Go pound sand, pickleball : there's a new king on the recreational throne. I was actively jotting down notes at the Michigan Outdoor Summit last fall during a s Dan Cooke Apr 21, 2025 9 min read Expedition Essentials: Ultimate Guide to Cross-Country Skiing Near Detroit Tundra Season is BACK in Detroit, unveiling unprecedented opportunities to dive into one of our region's favorite recreational pastimes: cross-country skiing. Here is our #ExpeditionEssentials guide to the best gear, destinations, and tips for launching into cross-country skiing near Detroit! We've said it once, twice, and will probably say it a million times more: Winter is one of the Detroit region's greatest recreational assets. Yes, we know that the real-feel temperature Dan Cooke Jan 22, 2025 8 min read Trail Running Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to Ditching the Pavement Leave the pavement behind for running Detroit's pristine natural trails this summer! Here's your crash course into the health benefits,... Expedition Detroit Jul 9, 2024 7 min read What We're Wearing: Expedition Detroit's Top Outdoor Gear Picks for June 2024 Introducing Expedition Detroit's new #WhatWereWearing series on our favorite outdoor gear for each month! From sport-specific to everyday fits, this series will cover the actual clothing, gadgets, equipment, and other gear that you'll see us wearing in the field. "If I wear it, then I own it." For the life of me I can’t remember who said this quote. Might have been as happenstance as eavesdropping on a conversation during a typical corporate networking session. But it left Dan Cooke Jun 24, 2024 10 min read Meet Rucking: The Perfect Trail Sport for Offseason Recreation Born out of military boot camp training, the physical and mental benefits of "Rucking" is taking the recreational community by storm!... Dan Cooke Oct 20, 2023 7 min read Expedition Essentials: Trail Running Shoes vs. Hiking Boots One of the most divisive - and impactful - issues of the outdoor community, here we dive into the "Great Trail Debate" on when and why you should lace up trail running shoes or hiking boots for your next adventure. #ExpeditionEssentials "This feels heavy." I said those words audibly at approximately 10:40 P.M. and 8ish miles into my thru-hike of the Chief Pontiac Trail . For anyone who has backpacked with me in the past, those words may come as a surprise. To this day, my Dan Cooke Aug 16, 2023 6 min read Explore Michigan Backpacking with Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear In a world where ounces equal pounds - and pounds equal pain - here's why you should treat yourself for peak hiking season this summer with CTUG's Michigan-made ultralight gear! #ExpeditionPartner "Yeah man, your kit is definitely looking a bit heavy." Those were extremely generous words from Austin Gongos , cofounder and one of the "Main Dirtbags" of U.P.-based Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear ("CTUG") . We first connected literally days after I completed a thru-backpacking t Dan Cooke Jun 16, 2023 5 min read Expedition Partner Feature: Motor City Axe Timeless. Powerful. Hand crafted in Detroit. It is our privilege to feature Motor City Axe as our first #ExpeditionPartner! We pity... Dan Cooke Apr 28, 2023 3 min read Expedition Essentials: The Ultimate Guide to Canoe Camping The ice has melted. The birds are returning. The sun - knock on wood - is actually shining again. Kayak season has returned to Detroit,... Dan Cooke Mar 29, 2023 10 min read Battle of the Buckets: The Best Ski Helmets of Winter 2023 There's nothing like an early March snowstorm to remind Detroit that ski season isn't over! If you are looking to hit the slopes for the... Dan Cooke Mar 3, 2023 4 min read Winter Trails: Snowshoeing vs. Cross-Country Skiing vs. Snow Hiking Just when any dreams of deep powder days had diminished to a fool's hope, January has delivered with over a foot of snow over the last... Dan Cooke Jan 28, 2023 7 min read Expedition Essentials: 5 Basic Skills for Winter Survival In recognition of this winter's inaugural snow storm, this edition of our #ExpeditionEssentials Series focuses on five essential survival... Dan Cooke Dec 28, 2022 10 min read RECENT GEAR ARTICLES PREPARE FOR YOUR ADVENTURES How can you best prepare for your next adventure? Visit these featured stores to check out all the latest gear. Blue Birch Outfitters Located in Milford, Michigan VISIT NOW Backcountry Online hub for recreational gear VISIT NOW Patagonia Global Outdoor Outfitter VISIT NOW FIND MORE GEAR

Learn how you can care for the planet and volunteer your time to a great cause or outdoor movement. VOLUNTEER One of the best ways that you can give back to the greater Detroit region is by volunteering your time and energy to a cause that can helps give back to this beautiful earth. Three easy ways to volunteer your time to a cause that helps the environment. Plant Trees Planting trees has so many benefits and is one of the easiest ways to give back to the earth. Not sure where to get seeds for planting? Click the button below to find your local tree nursery! Host a Cleanup Looking for ways to meet new people and give back to the environment? Host a cleanup event at your local park! Not sure how to get started? Click the button below to find local cleanups around Michigan. Join a Movement Another way to give back is to join an environment-focused movement that protects the outdoor experience. Not sure which movement to join? Click the button below to find a movement that makes an impact! Plant A Tree Find A Cleanup Join A Movement RECENT VOLUNTEER ARTICLES Conservation in Action: Support your Outdoors and Community at "DOEnation Metro Detroit" Whitetail Deer Season in Michigan may have reached its final week, BUT there's still plenty of time left to contribute to charitable... Dan Cooke Jan 23, 2025 5 min read Top 10 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2023 has arrived in full regalia, here are the Expedition Detroit Team's New Year's resolutions,... Dan Cooke Jan 7, 2023 12 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals... Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2022 7 min read

Detroit Michigan Running Trails & Races - Adventure travel blog for the everyday explorer. RUNNING Pavement or trail, 5K or Ultra, relay or triathlon - however you make your strides, we dig it. Lap back here for the Detroit region’s best running routes, retailers, race events, and lifestyle tips. We’ll see you at the finish line. FIND YOUR RACE Use code " 15EXPDET26 " for 15% off ALL RACES Explore community-based adventure races with Running Venture. Join the Club: The Five Most Prominent Running Clubs near Detroit Peak running season in Metro Detroit is just around the corner! I f you're looking for some extra motivation - and to make a few friends along the way - check out these "Five Most Prominent Running Clubs near Detroit" and lace up your shoes today! If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together . This African proverb can be readily applied to a infinite array of bucket-list worthy pursuits. From building a business to scaling mountains, I've never heard o Dan Cooke Mar 10 5 min read Introducing Run Milford: a New "Trail Town" Racing Series for Exploring Community Trails Can you feel it, Detroit runners? Racing season is JUST AROUND THE CORNER , including the full spectrum of races to register for. Don't miss the opportunity to support "trail town" community racing - AND save on fees - by joining the " Run Milford " Racing Series! Communities, first and foremost, are built on values. Yes, excellent schools, exciting events , cutting-edge restaurants, bountiful parks, and an energetic business environment are core elements as well. But without Dan Cooke Feb 18 5 min read POV: You Decided to Run the Best Marathon in America With legs still aching and post-race euphoria still beaming, Expedition Detroit's Founder shares his "point-of-view" experience running his first marathon at the "Best Marathon in America": the Detroit Free Press Marathon . " Yeah. Let's do this. " More than 26,000 aspiring runners had signed up for the weekend's main events, but for a few brief moments, only one runner approached the soaked starting line. With the early morning rain and wind pelting the eager group of runner Dan Cooke Oct 21, 2025 14 min read Built to Last: 5 Best Strength Training Exercises for Runners With the arrival of the "offseason" for Detroit's running community, now is the perfect time to implement a strength training into your endurance regimen! Here are Team Expedition Detroit's 5 best strength training exercises for runners - complete with verified results. It started at Mile 8. A slight discomfort just outside of my right knee that quietly made its presence known as my run neared Proud Lake's Organizational Campground. Each stride along that long straightaway pr Dan Cooke Nov 19, 2024 9 min read Trail Running Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to Ditching the Pavement Leave the pavement behind for running Detroit's pristine natural trails this summer! Here's your crash course into the health benefits,... Expedition Detroit Jul 9, 2024 7 min read Exploring the Detroit Free Press Marathon's 4 Most Iconic Routes Race Weekend for the 2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon is HERE! As runners finalize their pre-event prep and arrive in Detroit, here are the 4 most iconic routes that runners and spectators alike should explore before AND after the race kicks off. " This...this is...wow. " I mumbled those eloquent words to my father nearly four years ago as I paused my morning run in the middle of one of the most striking architectural landmarks in the Great Lakes region: the Ambassador Bridge Dan Cooke Oct 13, 2023 6 min read The Rookie's Guide to Triathlon Training in Metro Detroit Part triathlon training guide, part misadventure story, here are the "dos" and "don'ts" of competing in one of the most challenging, rigorous, and rewarding racing events that the outdoor world has ever concocted: the Triathlon. "Ohhhh my friend! Did you sign up yet??" I blankly stared at the text from my buddy Eric for a few seconds, knowing that my response would have to be "Yep!" despite, indeed, not signing up yet. To his credit, Eric had texted me about the sprint triath Dan Cooke May 26, 2023 8 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Wilderness Trail Loop in Holly Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition journeys to the Detroit region's northernmost destination - Holly Recreation Area - and its quintessential Wilderness Trail Loop. We invite you to explore this oasis of wilderness on our metropolitan frontier! "Wilderness in Oakland County - alright, I definitely need to check this one out." Those were my thoughts as I first read about Holly Recreation Area's famous "Wilderness Trail Loop" in Jim DuFresne's 50 Hikes in Mi Dan Cooke Apr 4, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring Detroit's Dequindre Cut Greenway Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition digs into the sole "Top 50" trail within our namesake city - the Dequindre... Dan Cooke Mar 7, 2023 4 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Maybury State Park Hiking Trail Loop Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition digs into one of the most popular trails in the entire Detroit region - a well deserved designation - within the heart of Maybury State Park. Join us as we traverse the rolling hills and expansive wetlands of Maybury! Have you ever experienced the joy - and frustration - of recognizing that something beautiful was hiding in plain sight? Maybe you finally realized that an old friend from your school years also const Dan Cooke Feb 21, 2023 6 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring the Newburgh Lakeview Trail in Livonia Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition traverses the lakeside bluffs, forested ravines, and panoramic views of the... Dan Cooke Jan 31, 2023 7 min read #TrailTuesday: Exploring Novi Lakeshore Park's Multi-Trail Welcome to the first installation of our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! Located just south of Walled Lake, this inaugural installation... Dan Cooke Jan 10, 2023 5 min read Top 10 New Year's Resolutions to Accomplish in Detroit's Outdoors Happy New Year, Detroit!! Now that 2023 has arrived in full regalia, here are the Expedition Detroit Team's New Year's resolutions,... Dan Cooke Jan 7, 2023 12 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just like waking up to fresh snowfall, January provides a perfectly clean slate for pursuing your wildest outdoor goals... Dan Cooke Dec 31, 2022 7 min read Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Dexter, Michigan The third installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're highlighting the best outdoor attributes of Dexter, Michigan. Dan Cooke Dec 30, 2022 7 min read Embrace the Dark Pt. II: Essential Night Gear for Nocturnal Explorers Sunset marks the starting gate for a whole new genre of adventure, although with one major caveat: it's dark outside. Have no fear,... Dan Cooke Dec 10, 2022 9 min read Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Northville, Michigan The second installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're highlighting the best features of Northville, Michigan for every hometown outdoor enthusiast. Check out why we are celebrating this oasis of adventure opportunities within the heart of the Detroit region! If you take a quick look at the map on our Destinations page, one overarching aspect includes that the majority of Detroit's premiere outdoor opportunities are found along the outer rim of our region. Geography Dan Cooke Nov 29, 2022 7 min read Introducing #EmbraceTheDark: A New Series on Exploring at Night In honor of the upcoming darkest month of the year surrounding the Winter Solstice, we are launching a new series focusing on the Detroit... Dan Cooke Nov 22, 2022 4 min read Guide to Conquering Detroit's Black Diamond Hiking Trails In honor of National Hiking Day, we proudly present the triple-crown of the Detroit region's most intense and exhilarating hiking... Dan Cooke Nov 17, 2022 6 min read Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Milford, Michigan The first installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're zeroing in on the specifics of what makes the Village of Milford,... Dan Cooke Oct 27, 2022 6 min read Five Classic Running Trails for Exploring Detroit The Detroit Marathon annually broadcasts to the world that the city is a premiere racing destination, but the marathon is just the tip of... Dan Cooke Oct 22, 2022 8 min read Reintroducing Detroit: The Future Trails Capital of North America The Great Lakes Tourism Experience Initiative is actively positioning Detroit as the epicenter of the longest interconnected trail network across Canada and the United States. Here's what you should know about our region's great investment in Detroit's outdoor economy. Rendering of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Image courtesy of the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority. Detroit is no stranger to vast trail networks. The Detroit Riverwalk provides immediate access to the I Dan Cooke Oct 19, 2022 3 min read Five Reasons Why You should Ditch the Pavement for a Trail Run While any run is better than no run, here are the key reasons why you should trade your neighborhood route for a natural path the next... Dan Cooke Oct 14, 2022 7 min read Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout October 2022 Overview of the top ten outdoor events that we're looking forward to during our favorite month of the year. Happy Fall! I’ve said it... Dan Cooke Oct 1, 2022 5 min read Welcome to Expedition Detroit: Your Guide to our World-Class Outdoors! Introducing Expedition Detroit - who we are, what we do, the areas we explore, and why you should join us on this expedition. Dan Cooke Sep 30, 2022 6 min read RECENT ARTICLES BOOK A TRAIL RUN