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Welcome to Highland State Recreation Area in Highland, Michigan! This moderate-level guided hike leads intrepid adventurers to the highest of Highlands' three towering moraines: Mount Kanzer, standing tall at an elevation of 1,160 feet. Starting at the southernmost trailhead of Highland - just north of Downtown Milford off of Weaver Road - the trail takes a southern approach to Mount Kanzer following the rolling "Milford Connector Trail." Once across Cooley Lake Road, the trail loops around Highland's southern marshlands until summiting Mount Kanzer just past the mid-way mark. Don't forget to stay on the lookout for abundant wildlife as you complete your summit push! MORE ON THIS TRIP: Meeting Point: Milford Connector parking lot trailhead Trail Length: 3.8 miles Elevation Gain: 233 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Very limited parking at trailhead; free parking pull-off locations also located along Weaver Rd.

Welcome to Maybury State Park in Northville, Michigan! This introductory-level guided hike will traverse Maybury State Park's beloved main "Hiking Trail Loop." Setting off from the 8 Mile Road trailhead, this 3.1 mile hike will cross the park's "wooded highlands," wildlife-dense marshlands, the picturesque Maybury Pond, and uncover the ruins of the Maybury Sanatorium. MORE ON THIS TRAIL: Meeting Point: Trailhead at the eastern parking lot of Maybury's 8 Mile Rd. entrance (turn LEFT at the crossroads after entering the park). The tour starts at the "MAYBURY SANATORIUM" sign at the trailhead. Elevation Gain: 127 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the 8 Mile Trailhead CHECK OUT OUR #TRAILTUESDAY SPOTLIGHT ON THIS TRAIL: https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/post/trailtuesday-maybury-state-park-hiking-trail-loop

Welcome to Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan! This introductory-level guided hike will loop through the easternmost sections of Belle Isle along the idyllic "Belle Isle Lighthouse and Blue Heron Lagoon" Trail! Setting off from the Ralph Wilson Gateway, this trail traverses Belle Isle's southern shore, providing you with stunning views of the Windsor, Canada shoreline, the vibrant Detroit River, and the industrial freighters passing by. You will also pass by the Belle Isle Lighthouse, Blue Heron Lagoon, and locally-named "Hipster Beach" on your route. MORE ON THIS TRAIL: Meeting Point: Trailhead at the eastern parking lot Trail Length: 2.2 miles Elevation Gain: 22 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking at the Ralph C. Wilson Trailhead

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

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 unmatched, but in accordance with the nature's balance of Yin and Yang, every positive unfortunately comes with some negative. For Detroit's outdoors, that means rising temperatures rise and active forest animals are accompanied by open season for ticks - and the diseases that they can carry . Now that more Detroiters than ever are flocking to our parks and trails, let's dive into a crash course on our resident micro arachnids and what steps we can take to enjoy a tick-free summer in our world-class outdoors. Where the Wild Things Are: Crash Course on Michigan's Ticks If you're keen on avoiding something ( or someone ), then step one is typically to learn where that something typically goes. Ticks often rest on leaves and grasses along well-travelled paths, where they hope an unsuspecting host will walk by and brush up against them. Once adhered, a tick may feed on host blood for minutes to days. As an anesthesiologist I must tip my cap to these little vampires. Their saliva can contain anesthetic properties which prevents the host from noticing any irritation from bites. As the tick feeds, it can transmit pathogens into the host bloodstream . Those pathogens are what we're most concerned about. During the transmission phase of a tick's feeding, ticks may transfer a litany of diseases like rocky mountain spotted fever , tularemia , anaplasmosis , babesiosis , Powassan virus disease , ehrlichiosis , and alpha-gal syndrome – a particularly terrifying disease where those affected become "allergic" to red meat. The most common vector-borne disease in Michigan, however, is Lyme disease . Backcountry Enemy No. 1: Lyme Disease  Lyme disease is spread by the infamous black-legged "deer" tick and caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi.  The disease may cause symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and a bulls-eye appearing rash called erythema migrans . Left untreated, those affected may develop severe neurologic and cardiac complications. Lyme disease is most commonly treated with antibiotics, but proper treatment requires a thorough examination, diagnosis, and plan from a doctor.   If all of that wasn’t scary enough, I have more bad news – cases in the Detroit region are on the rise. There were 862 cases of confirmed Lyme disease in Michigan in 2021, which was over a 400% increase from 2016. Washtenaw County – home to several of our favorite parks – is particularly concerning in regard to its growing burden of Lyme disease cases. Here are a few startling figures: In 2023, Washtenaw County had 192 confirmed cases, compared to 17 confirmed cases in 2016. Of the 2023 cases, it affected individuals as young as 3 years old, and 22 people required hospitalization. There were disproportionately low Lyme disease case reports among ethnic minority demographics throughout Washtenaw County, although such findings cause concern for missed or under-reported diagnoses in residents of color.   Due to reporting bias and many individuals unable or unwilling to seek treatment, the real case numbers of Lyme disease in Michigan are likely much higher than reported .   Let's pause for a moment. The data concerning the growth of ticks, and severe tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, throughout the Detroit region is objectively alarming. That being said, there are numerous ways to help reduce the incidence of tick bites and their potential diseases. Since we have a vested interest in facilitating the growth and sustainability of our local outdoor community, we wanted to share our insights into how you can continue to explore deeper into our wildest places while mitigating exposure to ticks. Here are a few recommended means of doing so: Avoid Direct Contact Since ticks cannot jump or fly, they most likely won’t sneak up on you. Instead, ticks heavily rely on their hosts making direct contact as they trek through tall grass, leaves, and other foliage. As you explore Michigan’s wilderness, make an effort to avoid trekking directly through such flora. Safe practice involves staying near the center of paths and avoiding off-trail adventures. But let’s face it – sometimes adventure calls and we end up off-trail. In such scenarios, wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, pants, high socks, and closed-toed shoes. These items will serve as a protective barrier should a tick find its way onto your body, and allow you a chance to identify and remove the tick before it contacts your skin. Utilize DEET or Permethrin Skin repellents containing at least 20% DEET will help repel ticks. Clothing treated with permethrin with also repel ticks, and often remains effective after numerous wash cycles. The EPA has an excellent insect repellent search tool  to help you find a solution which works for you. Find and Remove Ticks If a tick finds a way on to your skin, do not panic. For starters, the tick may not carry any diseases. Additionally, it can take several hours to days before an infected tick is able to transmit pathogens to their host. So as long as you immediately and diligently check yourself after spending extensive time outdoors, then your chances of removing a tick before any harm is transmitted will greatly increase. Best practice for this "search and destroy mission" involves bathing or showering shortly after outdoor activities. Before or after bathing, use a mirror to check yourself for ticks and ask a partner for assistance if able. Parents should check their children, especially within hidden spots such as the arm pits, ears, behind the knees, near the groin, around the waste, in hair, and in the belly-button. If you find a tick, grasp it with tweezers  and pull straight up without twisting or jerking . Wash the skin site with soap and water. Then dispose of the live tick by submerging in alcohol or sealing in a bag. Resist the urge to crush a tick in your fingers. It is also safe practice to double check your gear and pets. Tumbling gear or clothes in the dryer on high heat for an hour will typically kill any attached ticks. Follow-Up with your Doctor If you develop a rash, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, or other concerning symptoms in the days to weeks following a tick bite, then you should immediately follow-up with your doctor. Make sure your doctor is aware of the timing and setting of your tick exposure. Here at Expedition Detroit , we love nothing more than seeing our community enjoy and respect our region's great outdoors in a safe manner. A key component of that mission is to boost your ability to hike, camp, bike, ski, hunt, and paddle for as long as you so desire. This article - really, all of our lifestyle articles - has been curated for that exact purpose. While our growing tick population is absolutely a cause for concern, informed recreation is your best first step towards enjoying the best outdoor summer of your life. So stay safe and healthy, Detroit - we’ll see you on the trail. HIT THE TRAILS WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT Additional resources specific to Lyme Disease and Ticks in Washtenaw County can be found at the Washtenaw County Health Department , which served as a reliable resource as we prepared this article.   This article serves to educate but should not be used as direct medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional(s) before attempting to diagnose or treat any medical concerns.

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 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. 1. 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 2. 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) t he 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 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 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, vey 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 !

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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 us on our guided outdoor adventures Expedition Detroit proudly offers the largest variety of guided hiking , backpacking , and trail running services throughout southeast Michigan. With trips occurring across 11 state parks, we can't wait to guide you on your next outdoor adventure! BOOK YOUR EXPEDITION The 5 Summits: Conquering the Most Iconic Hilltops near Detroit HIKING AND BACKPACKING Apr 10 Michigan Turkey Hunting Cheatsheet: Guide for Spring 2025 HUNTING Apr 4 Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit throughout April 2025 LIFESTYLE Apr 2 Trail Beers: The Ultimate Drinking Guide to Detroit's Outdoors - March 2025 Edition ADVOCACY Mar 17 #TrailTuesday: Navigating Ortonville's Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loops Trail TRAIL TUESDAY SERIES Mar 11 Top 8 Outdoor Events near Detroit - March 2025 Edition LIFESTYLE Mar 7 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. All-Black Athletic Shorts (Unisex) Price $39.99 Add to Cart Under Armour® Men's Polo Regular Price $79.50 Sale Price $67.58 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 Crop Hoodie Regular Price $52.00 Sale Price $44.20 Add to Cart Columbia Fleece Jacket Regular Price $76.50 Sale Price $65.03 Add to Cart Expedition Wine Tumbler Price $21.99 Add to Cart Champion Rain Jacket Price $77.95 Add to Cart Organic Ribbed Beanie Regular Price $22.00 Sale Price $18.70 Add to Cart Classic Dad Hat Regular Price $40.95 Sale Price $34.81 Add to Cart Women’s Cropped Windbreaker Regular Price $54.00 Sale Price $45.90 Add to Cart Premium Eco Hoodie Regular Price $62.50 Sale Price $53.13 Add to Cart Expedition Fanny Pack Regular Price $32.99 Sale Price $28.04 Add to Cart Kids Fleece Hoodie Regular Price $39.50 Sale Price $33.58 Add to Cart Essential Sports Bra - Expedition Green Regular Price $39.99 Sale Price $33.99 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 content, guided adventures, and recreational gear for exploring the best outdoor opportunities within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. From well-known experiences to hidden gems, top-tier gear to time-tested survivalist tips, volunteer opportunities to recreational advocacy, 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

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 , we invite you to join our rapidly growing community of outdoor enthusiasts that share this vision and are actively discovering the lifetime of outdoor opportunities within an hour’s drive of Downtown Detroit. 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 any interest, skill level, age, or background can uncover, 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 Katie Whitley Featured Contributor A Michigan native, Katie grew up enjoying, and even taking for granted, all of the beauty and adventure that this state has to offer. After some years living abroad, that time away cultivated an appreciation for her home state and a new perspective on all the opportunities it provides for nature and exploration. Katie is thankful to be living back in the mitten, and enjoys any chance that she gets to sip cider, wander through a new forest, or visit a favorite winery with her dog. katiewhitley10@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