Search Results

Welcome back to our weekly #TrailTuesday Series! This edition explores a trail widely recognized as one of the Top 100 Trails in the entire country: Pontiac Lake's Mountain Bike Trail. Join us as we scale the climbs and ride the bends of this classic biking and hiking trail! "Yeah, I've been riding for a while now. Pontiac Lake was what really got me into it." Flashback to April of 2020, and my buddy has formally inducted me into the Detroit region's mountain biking faithful. I'm far from being the most recent convert - cycling in general, and mountain biking in particular, exploded as recreational interests during the peak pandemic era. There are legions of new bikers on Maybury's MTB trail that day, but I'm one of the lucky few to have an experienced guide waiting for me at each check point. I try to pick his brain about the sport at each of those points, mostly in an effort to buy myself an extra minute to catch my breath. "This trail's great, but Pontiac Lake is just another level. Definitely harder than this, but it might be my favorite in the state." Regardless of the pursuit, new minds are immensely impressionable. I can still vividly recall that conversation because of the imprint that it left on my perception of some local park known as "Pontiac Lake" - a place that I had never heard of and, frankly, was intimidated by. A trail that I would surely explore someday, via bike or boot, but certainly not that day. A little over three years later, I find myself finding standing at 1,118 feet - the highest point of Pontiac Lake's MTB Trail Loop. Despite the years of trail experience that I have now logged in the saddle of my bike, I'm actually a hiker during this inaugural pilgrimage to Pontiac Lake (bike is finally out of the shop and ready for the season!). As my eyes catch fleeting glimpses of the glistening waters of Pontiac Lake through the recently-bloomed canopy below, I'm a juxtaposition of emotions. Disappointment for not reaching this exact vista sooner in my life. Gratitude for having the interest and ability to stand here now. And excitement for presenting this miraculous trail to an audience so that they too can explore it - hopefully soon. It is our honor to reintroduce Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area now. MEET PONTIAC LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA 1944 was a pivotal year for conservation in the Detroit region. After 23 years of surveys, fundraising, negotiations, and land acquisitions, the Michigan Department of Conservation acquired roughly 100,000 acres to establish 10 "state recreation areas" throughout southeast Michigan. One of those fortunate recreation areas consisted of 3,745 acres situated along the northern banks of Pontiac Lake, largely former farm parcels and woodlands that blanketed the hills of central Oakland County. As exciting as finally realizing a decades-long dream was, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Pontiac Lake Recreation Area was just the start of the park's modern development. Over the next 80 years, the generations of Michigan Conservation and DNR staff that directed the preservation and progression of the park witnessed the construction of the massive PLRA Beach, the construction of a modern campground, the establishment of an Off-Road Vehicle area, and the construction of hiking, equestrian, and mountain biking trails. In 2023, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area continues to serve as an oasis of wilderness within the heart of Oakland County. The park's kaleidoscope of lake, pond, marsh, mature forest, rugged moraine, and former farmland habitats provides a refuge for a vast variety of wildlife. Pontiac Lake represents sacred ground for the Detroit region's most ardent mountain bikers, hikers, hunters, anglers, bird watchers, equestrians, and casual day trippers just looking to catch some rays on the longest beach in southeast Michigan. The mountain biking trail has garnered special praise since its initial planning in 1976; the trail has been recognized as one of the "Top 100 Trails" in the United States and is considered one of the most technical trails in southeast Michigan. Now - let's get to the trail. HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance: 9.4 miles Elevation Gain: 649 feet Trail Rating: Moderate-Difficult Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Parking available at Pontiac Lake trailhead (Michigan Recreation Passport required) Some parks in the Detroit region, we're convinced, get a sadistic satisfaction out of hiding their trailheads. Maybe the trail builders back in the 1950s just had a bad day because their Elvis record got scratched, who knows. On the other hand, a select few parks idiot-proof their trailheads: there's only one prominent place to park that's within direct eyesight of one core trailhead. Let's take a moment to collectively thank the bygone trail builders of Pontiac Lake's main MTB and hiking trailhead for conveniently idiot-proofing the trailhead. The westernmost parking spots at Pontiac Lake's massive beach parking lot are essentially the starting point of the famous Mountain Biking Trail, marked conspicuously by the metallic sign depicted in this article's cover photo. Seriously, you can't miss it. The first 0.4 miles of the trail are equally easy to follow. Once past the metallic trailhead sign, the trail leads you on a straight line northwest through flat and relatively open fields. Pause at the somewhat busy Gale Rd. crossing to check for traffic, but then you will continue due north until you reach Trail Marker #2 - the "real" starting point of the famous MTB Loop. Quick note on the trail orientation described in this #TrailTuesday article. Similar to our article on Highland's A-B-C-D Loops, we will provide instructions regarding Pontiac Lake's MTB Loop in the orientation that mountain bikers ride it, not hikers or trail runners. Remember that hikers and trail runners should always move in the opposite direction of mountain biking traffic whenever possible, which for Pontiac Lake means that mountain bikers will turn LEFT at Trail Marker #2 and hikers/runners will continue RIGHT. There is a "Bike Trail" directional sign just behind the Trail Marker sign in case you need a blatant reminder of which direction bikes should travel. Assuming that you have elected to ride the trail, then we have good news and bad news for you. The good news is that you're starting the trail with fresh legs. The bad news is that Pontiac Lake will throw its most challenging climbs at you within the first 3.7 miles of the 9.4 mile trail - including its steepest 14% grade incline at mile 1.7. In light of this, use the rolling terrain of mile leading up to this steep climb to warm up your legs. Especially if you're a newer rider, recognize that speed compared with the confidence of fresh legs could spell caloric disaster later down the trail. Pace yourself. Enjoy the rolling, wetland terrain of the rev up. And ready to hit the switchback-esque incline with all pistons firing. Once you've reached the top of what I dubbed the "false summit" - the top of the 14% climb described above - the trail briefly flattens out before dipping into an "inner-peak" lowland. The 0.4 mile stretch to the "true summit," marked by an exposed hilltop with impressive panoramic views in the post-foliage months, provides an excellent opportunity for "active recovery" after the initial climb. The true summit provides ample space to rest if you need a breather, but downhill junkies might be tempted to power through due to the next 0.7 miles of almost entirely flowy, speedy fun. Starting at the 2.9 mile marker - the lowest point of the MTB Trail beyond the shores of Pontiac Lake proper - you will start climbing again towards the "Peak #3" of the trail. This stretch of the trail is relatively straight through the density of Pontiac Lake's hardwood forests. Keep your eyes peeled for the scattered equestrian crossings through this segment, although you should be forewarned of each of these crossings via the ample signage. Once at the unceremonious forested summit of Peak #3, your well-earned sustained decline does unfortunately get short-circuited by a Maceday Rd. crossing. Enjoy the 0.2 miles of speed while you can. Across Maceday Rd., a relatively flat section of the trail becomes one of its most memorable due to the dramatic juxtaposition of moraine ridges and deep marshland kettles left by glacial activity 10,000+ years ago. Other than a brief grassland opening just south of White Lake Rd., this rolling, rocky, and densely forested terrain remains largely uninterrupted over the next two miles. Past the trail variances near Robinson Lake (look for the orange "EASY" vs. "HARD" directions, and don't overestimate your ability...), you have nearly reached the "beginning of the end" of the nearly 10 mile trail. While the final 3 miles of the trail still contain some sharp climbs and adrenaline-pumping descents to keep even advanced riders engaged, the main challenges are behind you at this point. Turning south at the 7.3 mile marker indicates that you are truly in the homestretch, although a final ascent at the 8.7 mile marker known as "Final Climb Peak" waits to welcome you back with one final dropkick to your ego. Once you have completed your conquest of Final Climb Peak, Pontiac Lake truly rewards with you smooth sailing back to the trailhead. There's a technical downhill just past Final Climb, but otherwise you will enjoy a remarkably straight route through the forest, into the grasslands, and back to the lakeshore trailhead parking lot. You'll know that you're close to completing the trail once the hills completely dissipate and the only sounds that you can hear are the airplanes taking off above you. WEEKEND BONUS TIPS Pontiac Lake undoubtedly represents an outdoor adventure destination in its own right, but maritime recreationists may also be unaware that the park's lakes, creeks, and wetlands provide the de facto launching point for literally multiple streams of adventures. In fact, the headwaters for each of the Clinton, Huron, and Shiawassee Rivers originate within the park's boundaries. While intrepid outdoor enthusiasts could surely find a way to navigate each of these river systems from in or around the park's boundary, the park's eastern boundary along Maceday Lake means that PLRA directly connects to the Clinton River Water Trail's western origination point. Similar to its larger cousin on the Huron, the Clinton River Water Trail consists of 72 miles of interstitial paddling between Maceday Lake and Lake St. Clair. at its eastern terminus. Other than a notable interruption in Pontiac, paddlers can traverse the beautiful Clinton River through the idyllic "lakelands" villages of Keego Harbor and Sylvan Lake, the downtowns of Rochester, Utica, and Mount Clemons, before finally completing the journey past Lake St. Clair Metropark and into Anchor Bay. Along the way, paddlers will venture through multiple environments, including marshlands, woodlands, and parks ripe for wildlife viewing opportunities. From Maceday Lake, multi-sport outdoor enthusiasts can easily pair a Saturday on Pontiac Lake Recreation Area's trails with a Sunday on the water. Launching from the southernmost Maceday Lake Access Point, the Clinton River Water Trail provides 20.8 miles of paddling exploration opportunities. This segment of the water trail passes through multiple inland lakes, lakeside parks, and Dodge #4 State Park. In full transparency, we at Expedition Detroit have yet to explore any segments of the Clinton River Water Trail. Yikes. But here's the silver lining: launching out from Maceday Lake represents a top priority for our Summer 2023 "bucket list," and we hope that you'll join us in rediscovering the hidden gems of one of the Detroit region's most prominent water trails during these warm days ahead. As always friends, we can't wait to see you out there. The #TrailTuesday Series idea started as a recommendation from readers looking for a deeper analysis into the individual trails that define Detroit's vast network. One of our main goals for this platform is to produce content that reflects the outdoor interests and desires of our community, so please continue to provide us with your suggestions via our contact form or here in the comments!

Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition explores the lakeside vistas and dramatic forested ravines of the Seven Lakes Loop, the flagship trail of Seven Lakes State Park. Join us as we traverse one of the most beautiful trails of the Detroit region! I've never understood why anyone hates a surprise. I'm referring to "good" surprises, of course. All of your best friends surprising you on your birthday, serendipitously running into your favorite professional athlete on the street, landing your dream job when you had heard nothing but crickets for weeks, or seeing your phone light up for the first time with an unexpected text or call from your crush. Moments that reaffirm a childlike belief that there's some magic still left in this world - and that it may appear in just a moment's notice. Exploring the Detroit region's outdoors - especially as part of our #TrailTuesday Series and new Guided Trips platform - has not only reignited this childlike sensation, but set it ablaze in spectacular fashion. An initial curiosity regarding a destination or trail inspires a visit, and each visit comes along with preexisting expectations of what a "Detroit region trail" should look like. Woods. Bugs. Maybe a lake or pond. Hopefully some incline/decline action. Then you finally get to the trailhead, grab your gear, and start your trek. What comes next - without fail - is a fundamentally life-altering surprise. Trails and woods that you have commuted past hundreds of times unveil a new world that's been hiding in plain sight. Stunning lakeside vistas. Towering oak trees. Dramatic ravines. Vast stretches of untouched forest, inducing the solitary reflection that our modern minds crave yet seldom find. I am extremely lucky. As a necessary component of this new venture, I get to experience moments like this on a fairly regular basis. And yet, during my hike yesterday afternoon along the Seven Lakes Loop trail - my first time ever visiting Seven Lakes State Park - I experienced this exploratory fire ignite yet again. An increasingly familiar sensation that I had just rediscovered an experience so beautiful, unassuming, exhilarating, and accessible that I had to share it with this community. ASAP. It is our honor to reintroduce Seven Lakes State Parks now. MEET SEVEN LAKES STATE PARK Seven Lakes State Park resulted from one of the best failures ever. Traveling back to the 1960s, a certain private interests group purchased the 1,434 acres of farmland, rolling hills, forests, and lakes - lots and lots of lakes - with the goal of creating a new development on the banks of one massive impoundment of water. To accomplish this goal, the group constructed a dam on Swartz Creek to create one massive 170 acre lake from seven smaller lakes. The dam accomplished its goal, but the project as a whole rapidly fizzled out. C'est la vie. Thankfully, the developers sold the acreage surrounding this new "Big Seven Lake" to none other than the Michigan DNR Parks and Recreation Division in 1969. With the name of neighboring "Holly Recreation Area" already snatched up, this new state park would adopt the name of its most beautiful and prominent feature - and living monument to the benefits derived from failure. Six decades later, Seven Lakes State Park has firmly established itself as a final frontier for world-class recreation in the northernmost stretches of the Detroit region. Unsurprisingly, Seven Lakes is a maritime paradise for aquatic activities: swimming, paddling, and no-wake boating are immensely popular at the park, although fishing for bluegill, bass, pike, tiger muskie, or catfish represents Seven Lakes' favorite generational past time. Unique for a state park, Seven Lakes also provides hunting and shared-trail mountain biking opportunities. On this inaugural visit, we opted to stick to our go-to exploration method: hiking. Ideal for exploring Seven Lakes' trail network of over 6.5 miles that criss-cross the park's near-endless variety of topography and ecosystems. Beyond daily use by hikers, cross-country skiers, and mountain bikers, the wetlands surrounding Seven Lakes' trail ecosystem provides a home for songbirds, muskrats, beaver, turtles, squirrels, deer, waterfowl, heron, and many other species of wildlife. And of these magnificent trails, the "grand daddy of them all" is none other than the Seven Lakes Loop. Now let's get to the trail. HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance: 4.1 miles Elevation Gain: 177 feet Trail Rating: Moderate Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Parking available at trailhead off of park service road - enter park from northeast Fish Lake Road entrance and continue 1.2 miles straight until parking lot appears to your left (Michigan Recreation Passport required) Some trails make you work for their best attributes. Think of a pristine alpine lake or exposed summit that's 12+ miles, one way, from the trailhead. Worth the strenuous effort? Undoubtedly. But still, the effort alone will test both the willpower, physical ability, and daylight restrictions of even the most ardent recreationist. The trailhead of the Seven Lakes Loop trail does not bother with playing such games. To the contrary, you will emerge from your vehicle to immediately gaze downhill at a forested, lakeland paradise, unveiled before you like a buffet of adventure. Even more convenient, the first trailhead marker (#4) awaits your arrival directly downhill from the parking lot. Check it out, orientate yourself for a moment or two, and then turn left towards #5 to descend into the heart of this natural wonderland. The first half mile of the trail provides you with an immediate highlight reel of Seven Lakes' trademark features. You will initially traverse an exposed natural bridge separating massive Big Seven Lake to your right and Little Seven Lake to your left. This area is immensely popular with shoreline fishers, so try to contain any enthusiasm for this stunning display of outdoor majesty as you traverse the land bridge towards a small forested inlet. Once in the woods, the next two miles of your adventure will consist of following the roller coaster of a hardwood ridge line. A part from two offshoots towards Big Seven Lake - one at the 0.4 mile marker and a longer one at the 1 mile marker - the trail will guide you along an oscillating path of steep climbs with sweeping vistas to declines into vernal pool depressions. You may notice the bike paths through the dirt under your boots; yes, these are permitted, and yes, this trail also rips on a mountain bike - especially this fun section. At around the 1.5 mile marker (including the tangents towards Big Seven Lake and back), the trail briefly juts out in its forested route towards Dickinson Lake before curving back to continue circumnavigating Big Seven Lake. Let us be abundantly clear here: EXPEDITION DETROIT does not condone unnecessary adventurism. However, if necessity dictates, there is a downed log around this section across a creek that leads directly to one of the steepest inclines that one could hope to find in the Detroit region. Again, if you reasonably find it necessary to traverse said log and climb this uphill, you will shave off roughly 0.2 miles of this hike, but supplemented with an immensely fun "micro-adventure." But, again, only if necessary. Of course. Around the 2.4 mile marker - once you catch a glimpse of the clear-cut utility area - you'll notice that the joyfully unpredictable terrain that you spent the last two miles scaling and descending starts to mellow out a bit. This "mellowing" reaches its zenith at the 2.7 marker, when you will (reluctantly) trade Seven Lakes' natural trails for an exposed paved road running adjacent to the western shoreline of Big Seven Lake. Fortunately, whatever quantity that this 0.4 segment may lose in "wilderness aesthetic," it easily regains in "unfiltered beauty." While simultaneously hiking back into civilization as you traverse past the picnickers and sunbathers of the immensely popular Seven Lakes Beach, your eyes will feast upon the unobstructed views of the immensity of Big Seven Lake - views that were physically impossible to obtain during the heavily-forested portions of the trail. There are also modern amenities like restrooms and water fountains near the beach, which will certainly come as a welcomed sight for many after 3 miles on the trail. The final mile of the loop provides a welcomed return to the wild, although not before passing by the massive Big Seven Lake Dam at the far northern tip of Big Seven Lake. If you're looking for a rushing, powerful dam, then this is not the dam for you - any water flow over the dam results solely from higher than normal lake levels, so it was hardly a trickle when I trekked past it. Warning: this is some sort of large animal skeleton at the base of the dam, which some hikers will find intriguing and others off-putting. Around Big Seven Lake Dam, the trail starts its final extended climb through grassland and wild flowers before descending into lakeside forest. Some stretches of this portion of the trail are situated right only the water, so please exercise caution with your foot placement while hiking here. When you notice a surprisingly steep climb towards an open field at the 4.1 mile marker, you will know that you have reached your final destination - the trailhead parking lot where your journey began waits for you at the top of the hill. WEEKEND BONUS TIPS Did we mention the beach? For the sake of transparency, the only downside of completing the Seven Lakes Loop trail consisted of having to high-tail it out of the beach area in order to complete the trek/assignment. The area simply looked fun - plenty of trees for hammocks, grilling pits, horseshoes and corn hole courts, playground areas for kids, picnic tables for relaxing, and more than enough beach space to lay out and relax. Big Seven Beach also provides boar rental opportunities, so you can easily pair your relaxation agenda with some maritime exploration fun. Especially in light of its relatively remote location from the heart of Downtown Detroit, Seven Lakes also fortunately features a modern campground at Sand Lake. With spaces equipped for both rustic and RV camping, you and your loved ones can easily stretch out your exploration of the park and nearby Holly Recreation Area over a weekend. So go ahead, pack the bike, kayak, fishing pole, and hiking boots - you're going to have plenty of time and unfettered access to utilize all of your favorite gear. Want to explore trails like this for yourself but would prefer hiking or running 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! The #TrailTuesday Series idea started as a recommendation from readers looking for a deeper analysis into the individual trails that define Detroit's vast network. One of our main goals for this platform is to produce content that reflects the outdoor interests and desires of our community, so please continue to provide us with your suggestions via our contact form or here in the comments!

October means that FALL IS BACK IN DETROIT, along with your favorite autumnal traditions, seasonal treats, and the optimal opportunity to experience your favorite parks, trails, and waterways. With the best 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! We’ve said it once, twice, and possibly a million times: nothing beats October in the Detroit area. Crisp mornings, warm days, screensaver-worthy foliage, less crowded trails and campgrounds, open season for hunting, premiere racing…one does not simply top the optimal recreational opportunities that October entails. With an adventure-packed month like October, the sheer scope of the wealth of outdoor experiences available to you may come off as overwhelming at first. Trust us, you're not alone in the sentiment. If we're being honest, every October morning starts with a catharsis of which recreational aspirations we will pursue that day. Start the morning in the tree stand for the morning hunt or with a trail run? Paddle out into the Huron River for reflective fall colors or pump up the tires for a mountain bike ride? Head out for a stroll along Detroit's most scenic urban trails or book a guided hike for a backcountry adventure? Don't worry though - when it comes to October in Metro Detroit, as long as you're outside on bluebird sky and color-filled day, then you're living your best life. Regardless of your recreational pursuit. That being said, if you're searching for a shortlist of the best outdoor events to provide some structure to this month of months, then you've clicked on the right article. Here are Expedition Detroit's "Top Ten Outdoor Events near Detroit" occurring throughout this action-packed month! 1. Attend a Michigan DNR Fall Festival Throughout October | Several State Parks and Recreation Areas Looking for a festive autumnal getaway? Well, there’s a good chance that if you camp at one of Michigan’s 103 state parks and recreation areas during the month of October, you will find yourself conveniently camping in the midst of a DNR-sponsored Fall Harvest Festival. The tradition that started at Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area over 30 years ago has spread throughout the Detroit region, with most festival events only open to weekend campers. The festivities include hay rides, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, costume contests, haunted trails, nature programs, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Oh, and don’t forget to explore some of the most beautiful trails in the State of Michigan while you’re at it. 2. Get in the Woods for Whitetail Deer Bow Season Throughout October | Statewide in Michigan Fall technically started on September 23rd, but the overwhelming consensus among Michigan outdoorsmen is that the season kicks off the moment that you get into your stand for whitetail deer season on October 1st. Months of gear preparation, scouting, land maintenance, target practice, and stand assembly have led to this moment. The temperature may be slightly warmer than preferred, but there’s no better place to sit back, watch the changing leaves wave in the wind, and wait for that buck of a lifetime to wander your way. This season, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has specifically called on lower peninsula hunters to play a critical role in the DNR's conservation strategy. More specifically, in order to alleviate the significant stress that an overpopulation of deer has levied upon the lower peninsula's ecosystem, the DNR issued an open letter pleading for hunters to focus primarily on harvesting a doe during October's opening weeks. While that may seem counterintuitive to the longstanding - i.e., way outdated - approach to "bucks only" hunting, the DNR's action call also notes that taking an early-season doe will most likely entail increased rut activity, decreased young buck harvests, and improvement of overall herd ratios. Most importantly, increased doe harvests will also provide the long-term benefits of reduced cases of disease transmission, vehicle accidents involving deer, and destruction of farmland. 3. Hike and Sip at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery Throughout October | Essex, ON | 10 a.m. If a good hike and great wine in peak fall colors don’t get you excited for fall, then you just might be a lost cause. For the rest of us, our friends across the border at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery host a weekly “Hike 42 Degrees” event where hikers and tasters alike can enjoy the winery’s 40 acres of colorful Carolinian forest. The event’s entry ticket includes a guided hike, wine tasting, and an outdoor camp-style gourmet lunch prepared by the Bistro 42 Culinary Team. 4. Explore the Dequindre Cut during the Detroit Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally October 7-8th | Detroit, MI | 11 a.m. In a month filled to the brim with outdoor adventure, sometimes we all need a day or two to take a nice, leisurely stroll through an open-air festival. Especially when said festival is hosted by the award-winning Detroit Riverfront Conservancy along one of the most famous trails in the city. Featuring live music, 50+ gourmet food trucks, renown street art, and events for the entire family to enjoy. You can experience all of this and more at the Detroit Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally, which will be kicking off this Saturday at the Dequindre Cut Greenway! 5. Hike under Peak Fall Colors with Expedition Detroit! Throughout October | 11 State Parks and Recreation Areas Peak fall colors are JUST AROUND THE CORNER, and there's no better way to experience them than on the trails of the Michigan State Parks! Not sure where to explore? No problem - we've curated dozens of guided trips intended to showcase the best of the best of the Detroit region's outdoors. The Expedition Detroit team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach across ELEVEN of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience. We will be gradually adding new guided trips over the coming weeks, as well as special trips like night hiking safaris, photography-specific treks, and eventually guided snowshoe, mountain biking, and kayaking trips. So, stay tuned friends. We can't wait to host you on one of our trips soon! P.S. Subscribers to our content get discounts on our Guided Services AND online store items..... 6. Run the Detroit Free Press Marathon October 15th | Detroit, MI | 7 a.m. We are certainly not alone in declaring that the Detroit Free Press Marathon is the crown jewel of the Detroit region’s fall outdoor season. This year is especially noteworthy since the 2023 course will guide runners not only along the crowd-favorite Windsor Riverfront, but also through several new neighborhoods and destinations. The updated course includes routes within the District Detroit, Midtown, New Center, Eastern Market, and - FOR THE FIRST TIME - the world-famous Dequindre Cut Greenway! On a personal note, my all-time favorite racing moment is watching the sunrise while running across the Ambassador Bridge. I don’t know how the race planners perfectly time that year after year, but it’s the icing on the cake for an already bucket list-worthy outdoor event. We hope that you'll join us at the starting line this year! 7. Hike with the Departed at Cemetery Tales October 21st | Willow Metropark | 7 p.m. With the month of October halfway gone, why not take “Spooky Season” to another level by hiking in a cemetery? The fearless folks at Willow Metropark have you covered - join their annual “Cemetery Tales: Stories from the Passed” hike through Huron Township Cemetery, which is located within the metropark. Your guided trek will also include history and folklore insights regarding the dear departed that you will be hiking amongst. The web advertisement for this event states, in all caps, “THIS IS NOT A HAUNTED ATTRACTION,” but come on… if that doesn’t make you superstitious, it must make you at least a littlestitious… 8. Wear your Mask, Cape, and Helmet at the Batman Ride October 28th | Pinckney State Recreation Area | 7:00 p.m. Looking to get some extra use out of your Batman halloween costume this year? Of course you are, you festive outdoor enthusiast. Pack it in alongside your nighttime MTB gear for a special themed "Batman Ride" sponsored by the Potawatomi Mountain Biking Association. In full disclosure, the only description for this event is "Ride the Poto, backwards, at night," so get ready for a night full of awesome mid-fall riding and whatever other surprises that the Poto MBA might have waiting in their utility belt... 9. Join a Lantern Hike under the Full Hunter’s Moon October 28th | Oakwoods Metropark | 7:30 p.m. October’s full moon - appropriately named the “Hunter’s Moon” - will reach its peak on October 28th. Be sure to catch a glimpse of this bright orange moon by heading over to Oakwoods Metropark for a guided “Evening Lantern Tour” led by a metropark ranger equipped with special historical and astronomical knowledge. We couldn’t resist doing some of our own research, though; it is believed that this full moon came to be called the “Hunter’s Moon” because it signaled the right time to start hunting in relation to the impending winter. We embrace this omen and proudly endorse this moon. 10. Run a Halloween-Themed Race Throughout October | Various Locations We’re admittedly suckers for hometown 5Ks and 10Ks, and themed races that are enjoyable for runners and spectators alike absolutely top our lists. Running in one of the “Halloween races” occurring across Metro Detroit will undoubtedly get you in the holiday spirit, especially if you forgo your typical race attire for the most sweat-resistant costume in your basement. RF Events’ “RUN, SCREAM, RUN” race kicks off the holiday season on October 7th at Wiard's Orchard in Ypsilanti (voted the number one horror attraction in Michigan). Finish Line Runs’ “Michigan Monster Dash” at Kensington Metropark occurs next on October 28th, which includes 1K, 5K, 10K, and half marathon events. Last, Kona Running’s “Wicked Halloween Run” at Maybury State Park closes out Spooky Season racing on the 29th. Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.comto discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Especially in the run-up to the holidays, "Burnout Epidemics" spread like wildfire throughout major metropolitan areas like Detroit. Fortunately for all of us, mother nature's life-saving antidote is available for immediate consumption just outside the door. We invite you to take a quick break from your desk to explore nature's remedy for clinical burnout. In 1789, Benjamin Franklin famously penned that “in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Fast forward to 2022, Mr. Franklin’s now-famous idiom has stood the test of time, although a third certainty has emerged that we all will face at one point or another in modern life: Burnout. The 21st century’s dreaded killer of motivation, destroyer of optimism, grim reaper of productivity. What Exactly is Clinical Burnout? Theatrics aside, Psychology Today defines “Clinical Burnout” as a “state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress.” Clinical burnout manifests through symptoms like physical and mental exhaustion, headaches, fatigue, heartburn, gastrointestinal issues, an increased potential for alcohol, drug, or food misuse, a sense of dread about work, and frequent feelings of cynicism, anger, or irritability. Common causes of Burnout include situations where a person does not have control over how a task is carried out, their daily tasks directly conflict with their sense of self or long-term goals, or a consistent lack of support in professional or family life. While clinical burnout has long been a workplace harm, the COVID-19 pandemic elevated the condition’s status from “likely nuisance” to “Franklin-level certainty” in modern society. As noted by the American Psychological Association, a byproduct of the pandemic included the normalization of longer work hours while simultaneously juggling increased demands at home. In 2021, 79% of employees had experienced work-related stress, nearly 60% of employees reported negative impacts of work-related stress, 36% reported cognitive weariness, 32% reported emotional exhaustion, and 44% reported physical fatigue—a 38% increase since 2019. Even before the pandemic, this time of year already constituted "Burnout Season" due to the cumulative effect of year-end deadlines, the holidays, and the Winter Solstice. As much as we have been preaching the #EmbraceTheDark mantra, we are not immune to the reality of Seasonal Affective Disorder and that these darker, colder days can induce its corresponding depression, anxiety, and dissociation. To summarize, the bad news is that the mental state of the American workforce is in far less than ideal shape - and the prognosis for a trend reversal in the near future is equally dire. Is There any Good News? Fortunately, yes, and the most effective cure is literally right outside your door. The great outdoors has already provided a cure for this ailment: simply stepping away from the desktop and getting out there. Now I am in complete agreement that such a simple, “duh” statement could be viewed as borderline insulting for a readership that already has a strong affinity for the outdoors. However, for anyone questioning whether to trade the known monotony of a draining workplace for the unpredictable weather and buggy conditions of the outdoors, scientific research has overwhelmingly affirmed the psychological benefits of regular engagement with our natural environment. Here are the key takeaways: The average adult spends less than 5% of their waking hours in nature (Global Environmental Change). “Forest walks” compared to “urban walks” have a significantly more positive effect in the reduction of cortisol levels, diminishing sympathetic nerve activity, and decreasing both blood pressure and heart rate (Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University). A 90-minute forest walk versus an urban walk leads not only to decreased negative thoughts, but also decreased neural activity in the part of the brain associated with anxiety and depression (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences). Nature can boost creativity and capacity to think clearly via a phenomenon called “Attention Restoration Theory” (Association for Psychological Science). Emotional well-being has the most consistent positive connection to physical activity in nature, whereas general health is positively associated with physical activity in both indoor and outdoor settings (International Association of Applied Psychology). Compared with exercising indoors, exercising in natural environments is associated with greater feelings of revitalization, increased energy, positive engagement, and decreases in tension, confusion, anger, and depression (Science Daily). Even just 5 hours of outdoor exercise per month provides tangible benefits for one’s psychological and physical health, although there is a dose-response effect where the more time that you spend in nature, the better off your mental and physical health will be (Brad Stulberg, The Cut). Action Steps So, if you are experiencing the onset or an extreme case of clinical burnout, here are five simple outdoor practices that you can start implementing today: 1. Block Off a Mid-Day Outdoor Break. Commonly referred to as a “Mental Health Walk,” even 30 minutes of outdoor activity during the middle of the work day can induce the psychological benefits listed above. Especially if you have the flexibility to work from home, blocking off at least 30 minutes of time where you are away from your desk and surrounded by nature will result in a boost of positivity and motivation for finishing the work day. 2. Maximize Your Weekends. For most workers, Saturdays and Sundays serve as well-deserved recharge periods for overworked brains. While it may be tempting (and occasionally necessary) to utilize weekends to “get ahead” on next week’s workload, investing that time instead in an outdoor experience will pay dividends through detoxing any lingering negative emotions and enhancing feelings of revitalization for the week ahead. Remember, there is a positive correlation between the quantity of time spent outdoors and the longevity of psychological benefits received. Purposefully dedicating at least 90 minutes of your weekend to the outdoors will continue to provide mental health benefits well into your work week. 3. Aim for Full Immersion. Even though studies support that even just looking at a photo of nature can improve your attention span and complex thinking capacity, the brain most benefits from an outdoor experience when all of its senses are fully-immersed. More specifically, the sense of touch is an often-overlooked component of an outdoor experience that is essential for the brain’s complete immersion in the present and disconnection from the noise of modern life. The more engaging or strenuous the activity (example, mountain biking vs. casual biking), the more that the brain will tap into its “touch senses” and experience a neurological detox from external stressors. 4. Make the Outdoors Non-Negotiable. In my last year of law school, one of my professors went well out of his way to remind his students that “everything is negotiable.” While that may be true in a corporate law setting, but the prioritization of spending time outdoors - especially when experiencing symptoms of clinical burnout - should be a clear exception to the norm. Setting a hard boundary like this will not only insulate the psychological perks described here, but will actually compound those benefits by further improving self-esteem, enhancing focus, and further diminishing symptoms of clinical burnout. We recommend clearly communicating to coworkers what periods you will be offline, setting work-related devices to “airplane mode” (or leaving them behind altogether), and consistently following-through with your outdoor game plan. 5. Share the Experience. While misery may love company, thankfully so do the neurological stimuli that are benefited by the outdoors. There is growing scientific evidence that sharing an experience with another person amplifies the intensity of the psychological impact of that experience. This phenomenon is further enhanced when experienced with a loved one rather than a new acquaintance. Put differently, absolutely use your “anti-clinical burnout” outdoor adventures as an excuse to plan dates, reconnect with family, or build relationships with long-time friends. Ready to get outside but not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered - check out our Destinations page to find a trail near you, today. We can’t wait to see you out there.

Crisp weather, crunchy leaves, changing colors - could you imagine a more perfect autumn hike? Well, the promise of sweet apple cider, a warm donut, and maybe even a caramel apple waiting at a cider mill will make any fall aesthetic dream come true! Grab your flannel and hiking boots: let's look at 3 destinations where you can live your perfect fall day. The 'Ber months have arrived in Michigan! Call me basic, but fall has always been my favorite season. That fresh but earthy scent in the air, bonfires and football, spooky season and soup. There's a sentimentality that comes with this change of season - memories of childhood trips to the cider mills, jumping and climbing all over those hay bale piles. Riding a tractor through the orchard to pick apples, gathering colorful leaves while hiking bright wooded trails. There are many states that boast of beautiful scenic foliage, but let's be honest - I've yet to find a place that feels like Michigan and brings all the colors and the idyllic fall activities together! There's truly no place like home, especially when home consists of bluebird fall days spent hiking to a cider mill. So let's look at some local autumnal hotspots for a memorable (and delicious!) fall adventure to Metro Detroit's favorite cider mills. 1. Island Lake Yellow Trail Loop + Blake's Lyon Orchard | South Lyon, MI First on our list is a tried and true classic - Island Lake State Recreation Area's famous Yellow Loop Trail! This trail has been well explored and documented by our fearless trailblazer and founder, Dan Cooke. Check out our #TrailTuesday feature article to get all the details on exploring this Detroit region favorite. After 5+ miles of hiking, you will be certainly ready for some seasonal refreshment! Make your way just 4 miles down the road to Blake's Lyon Township cider mill and orchard. Previously known as "Erwins Orchard," this is a recently opened location of the well known Blake's Orchard in Armada, Michigan. If you're in the mood for a harder cider option, you may recognize their hard cider flavors that are distributed nationwide. You will also find many fun attraction for kids, like a petting zoo, tractor rides, U-Pick orchard, corn maze and straw mountain. VISIT BLAKE'S ORCHARD Sunday - Thursday | 8am - 7pm Friday & Saturday | 8am - 8pm U-PICK Open Daily | 9am-6pm Phone: (248) 437-0150 Address: 61475 Silver Lake Rd, South Lyon, MI 48178 2. Hudson Mills Metropark + Dexter Cider Mill | Dexter, MI Dexter is a charming town to explore, offering many opportunities for hiking, biking or floating on the Huron River! Looking for a day trip? Check out our #TrailTownSpotlight feature on Dexter for a good overview of all the possibilities that this quintessential Trail Town has to offer! The true beauty of Dexter, however, is its immediate access to top tier outdoor destinations, including one of our favorites: Hudson Mills Metropark and its Acorn Nature Trail! This 2 mile trail gently guides hikers on a loop showcasing Hudson Mills' best natural features. From marshes to wildflower fields, dense oak forests to sweeping Huron River vistas, this short hike under the changing leaves will provide an ideal excursion to pair with your cider mill visit! Now we know Michigan boasts countless cider mills spread all over the state, and we are lucky to have this historical gem right in out backyard! I present to you, The longest continuously operating cider mill in the state: the Dexter Cider Mill. Dating all the way back to 1886, this cider mill is one for our Michigan history lovers and can not be missed! The Dexter Cider Mill presses their cider the old fashioned way, using an oak rack press. In my humble opinion, their donuts are the absolute best version of a good cider mill donut: crunchy on the outside with a warm gooey center. The owners are passionate and committed to preserving the history and tradition of this special place, and as such it earns are full endorsement for that coveted post-hike donut and cider! VISIT THE DEXTER CIDER MILL Open: Wednesday - Sunday, Closed Monday and Tuesday Hours: 8am - 5pm Phone: (734) 426-8531 Address: 3685 Central St. Dexter, Michigan 48130 3. Maybury State Park + Parmenter's Northville Cider Mill | Northville, MI We could say we've saved the best for last, but we may be biased here at Expedition Detroit since Maybury State Park undoubtedly holds a special place in our hearts. Why? Well, you can check out our #TrailTuesday feature on Maybury's beloved Hiking Trail for a quick refresher on why we adore this special place. The family-friendly hiking trail guides visitors through the heart of the former sanatorium's grounds. A 3.1 mile adventure under hardwood forests, moraine ridge lines, and a panoramic view of the park's most sought-after gem: Maybury's magnificent pond and its surrounding wildlife. Our Northville cider mill pairing is Parmenter's Northville Cider Mill! Here you will find another charming mill that boasts a rich history - this year they are celebrating 150 years! On certain days of the week you can watch the cider pressing process in action. After grabbing your cider and bag of donuts, stroll down to Mill Race Creek and visit the large community of resident ducks. But wait, there's more! Especially if you planned an afternoon hike, then also be sure to top off your cider and donut with a visit next door to the Northville Winery and Brewery Co. Their menu offers a large selection of hard cider, beer, and wine options. Throw in a dog and family friendly environment, live music, and food trucks - what more could you ask for in topping off your small town hike and cider mill adventure? VISIT PARMENTER'S NORTHVILLE CIDER MILL Open daily 10am-8pm Address: 714 Baseline Rd. Northville, MI 48167 Phone: 248-349-3181 Do you have any favorite places that you visit every fall? Let us know in the comments, and enjoy all the sunshine, colors and fresh air of the season! ​ P.S. Subscribers to our content get discounts on our Guided Services AND online store items..... Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Happy #TrailsWeek, Michiganders! With more than 13,400 miles of trails to choose from, here is our short list of the five best ways to celebrate this year's "Michigan Trails Week" throughout the Detroit region. We'll see you at the trailhead! "An abundance of opportunities ... the beauty of meandering rivers, the majesty of forests teeming with wildlife ... a significant role in strengthening Michigan’s economy ... increasing the quality of life for all Michiganders." Those are just a few snippets from Governor Whitmer's official gubernatorial designation of this week, September 17 - 24, as "Michigan Trails Week." Although the statement from Lansing only consists of 10 short paragraphs, the governor's writing team delivered a masterclass in succinctly describing why Michigan reigns as the "Trails State" on a national scale. Here are a few highlights of the benefits of Michigan's trail system: More than 13,400 miles of diverse and state-designated trails resulting from partnerships among state agencies, trail groups, nonprofits, businesses, and local residents. Increases quality of life through promoting physically and mentally healthy activities like hiking, biking, walking, running, horseback riding, off-road vehicle use, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and paddling. Supports sustainable economic development through facilitating thousands of jobs, providing alternative transportation corridors, and expanding access to year-round tourism and recreational opportunities. The main point here is that Michigan's trails are worth celebrating. These meticulously planned and maintained routes constitute so much more than simple lines on a map. Our trails both literally and figuratively give life to our state, supporting livelihoods and habitats, inspiring creativity and community, and ultimately further connecting us to our environment. So, how does one best celebrate our trails? Yep, you guessed it - by exploring them. To assist in that effort, here is our list of the five best ways to experience the Detroit region's trails during the 2023 Michigan Trails Week. 1. BIKE TO A CIDER MILL When most Michiganders think of fall, they dream of crisp mornings in the woods, vibrant colors, tailgating in East Lansing or Ann Arbor, watching the Lions on Sundays, evenings by the fire, and fresh, mouth-watering donuts - typically with a side of cider. The State of Michigan, and especially Metro Detroit, is beyond blessed with an abundance of cider mills dotting our quintessential Americana countryside. Better yet, several of these cider mills are conveniently located either near - or directly alongside - our region's pristine biking trails. Outdoor and cider enthusiasts living in the Rochester area are especially spoiled with their trail-to-mill access. The aptly named Paint Creek Cider Mill is located right just over Paint Creek from the beloved paved Paint Creek Trail, and the renown Yates Cider Mill regularly serves its recreational patrons right alongside its namesake Yates Trail. On the west side of the Detroit region, a visit to Blake's Farms in South Lyon is just a short cycle south from Island Lake State Recreation Area, while bikers can easily stop over at Parmenter's Northville Cider Mill by heading east from Maybury State Park or north from Hines Park. Nothing quite hits like a mid-ride cider and donut to refuel for the journey home. 2. EXPLORE DETROIT'S BEST URBAN TRAILS Across the country, recreationists tend to fall into one of two camps: wilderness explorers or urban adventurers. This line between these demographics tends to follow geography and lifestyle factors - the proximity of mountains vs. skyscrapers, freeways vs. backcountry roads, starlight vs. street light. For better or worse, most outdoor enthusiasts face the stark choice of electing which camp to fall into. Here in the Detroit region, we are blessed to face no such dilemma. While most major cities are located hours away from their most sought-after trailheads and destinations, our wilderness trails, dense forests, and secluded campgrounds are all within a one-hour radius of downtown. Better yet, the City of Detroit proper features award-winning trails that are immediately accessible for Detroiters - and these trails are becoming increasingly interconnected thanks to the rapid development of the Joe Louis Greenway, Iron Belle Trail, and Gordie Howe International Bridge. This Michigan Trails Week, don't forget to opt for the city and explore Detroit's dynamic urban trail network. Celebrated staples like the Dequindre Cut, Belle Isle Park, and the reigning "Best Riverwalk in America" Detroit Riverfront trail should absolutely be on your list. If you find yourself looking for a more comprehensive adventure, however, be sure to explore the recently-minted Southwest Greenway and Rouge Park's winding trail system. 3. PLAN A BACKPACKING GETAWAY Contrary to popular to popular belief, the 2023 backpacking season in the Detroit region is far from over. Throughout Metro Detroit, the campgrounds at most state parks will remain open for reservation until the end of October. Some rustic campgrounds even remain open year-round, meaning late fall or winter overnight expeditions should absolutely hold a place in your rolodex of off-season adventures. Michigan Trails Week has just kicked off, so now is the perfect time to make your reservations for a quick backpacking getaway for this upcoming weekend! For us at Expedition Detroit, we strongly recommend two trails: the Waterloo-Pinckey Trail and the Chief Pontiac Trail. Backpackers looking for a full weekend of adventure should opt for the WPT: a roughly 40 mile thru-hiking adventure that belongs on every local outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. On the other hand, trekkers looking for an extended day hiking trip should opt for the Chief Pontiac Trail, tackling either the shorter Highland State Recreation Area or longer Proud Lake-Kensington Metropark segment. 4. PADDLE FOR EARLY FALL COLORS Foliage prediction reports state that peak fall colors won't strike the Detroit region for a few more weeks, but a quick walk in the woods will reveal Mother Nature has already started to unveil her autumnal flair. If you're looking to beat the droves of leaf-lovers that will descend upon Michigan's forested trails in early October, than this Michigan Trails Week presents the ideal opportunity to enjoy nature's magic without the crowds - especially when exploring via paddle. While you can't go wrong paddling any of the Detroit's region's official water trails, we at Expedition Detroit typically opt for launching out on the Huron River. Why? Well, the vast amount of protected wetlands and watershed areas along the banks of the Huron means that paddlers find themselves spoiled by the natural beauty and diverse wildlife surrounding them. From the narrow inlets of Proud Lake State Recreation Area to the enormity of Kensington Metropark's Kent Lake, the raging rapids of Delhi Metropark and Argo Cascades to the leisurely flow of Oakwoods Metropark, the Huron River is best suited for every genre of paddler. 5. BOOK A GUIDED HIKE WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! Here at Expedition Detroit, we strongly believe that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone and anyone who has a passion for - or even the slightest curiosity about - Southeast Michigan's immaculate natural environment. We also fully understand that not everyone feels as comfortable about exploring the Detroit region's trails on their own. From lack of experience, knowledge, or other safety concerns, we recognize that enjoying Michigan Trails Week may come off as a daunting endeavor to many an aspiring outdoor enthusiast. That's where we step in. This Michigan Trails Week, we will be leading 9 guided hiking trips across several Michigan State Parks within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit! These hikes will occur across beloved destinations like Highland State Recreation Area, Maybury State Park, Proud Lake State Recreation Area, Belle Isle Park, and Brighton State Recreation Area. Better yet, in honor of Michigan Trails Week, hike participants can use code "TRAILSWEEK" for 20% off of your booking! How are you planning on celebrating Michigan Trails Week? Do you have a favorite fall desitination within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit that you would like to see featured? Let us know in the comments or reach out directly via (734) 821-6416 or info@expeditiondetroit.com!

Fall means primetime in Detroit's outdoors - especially for the Michigan hunting community ready for crisp mornings and cool evenings in the woods! Here is Expedition Detroit's breakdown of the species, dates, equipment, and special regulations for this year's hunting season. Each year, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (the “DNR”) releases its annual fishing guide and hunting digests to educate anglers and hunters on the state’s fishing and hunting regulations. These digests are invaluable resources for prospective hunters regarding recent changes to DNR regulations, restrictions, and procedures, such as the new mandatory deer harvest reporting requirements. Regardless if you’re a veteran woodsman or as green as hunters come, reading through the 2022 Michigan Hunting Digest would be a worthwhile investment of your time prior to heading out to your stand. My only critique of the digests are that they tend to be over-broad, especially for hunters who will spend the vast majority of the season hunting one or two species in a specific geographic area (the inundation of ads aren’t particularly reader-friendly either, although we understand their role). Enter this cheatsheet, which we curated as a five-minute informational download specifically for hunters that will hunt primarily in the Detroit region. Here's our a breakdown of Michigan hunting specifications for each season: Whitetail Deer When: October 1st - November 14th and December 1st - January 1st for archery, November 15th - 30th for regular firearm, and December 2nd - 11th for muzzleloader. There is a late antler-less firearm season open on private lands only from December 12, 2022 - January 1, 2023. An extended archery season exists until January 31st for Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. Hunting Equipment: Compound or crossbow all season; limited firearms and muzzleloaders during various phases of season. “Limited firearms” include a shotgun, a handgun that is .35-caliber or larger with straight-walled cartridges, a .35-caliber or larger rifle with straight-walled cartridges with a minimum case length of 1.16 inches and a maximum case length of 1.80 inches, and a .35-caliber or larger air rifle or pistol charged only from an external, high compression power source. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: 1 per kill tag. Licenses Required: Base License and either Deer License or Deer Combo License. Waterfowl (Ducks, Coots, Mergansers, and Geese) When: September 1st - 30th, October 15th - December 11th, December 31st - January 8th, and February 4th - 13th (geese); October 15th - December 11th and December 31st - January 1st (ducks, coots, and mergansers). Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: Ducks: Daily limit is 6, season-long possession is 18. Coots: Daily limit is 15, season-long possession is 45. Mergansers: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 15. Dark Geese (Canada, brant and white-fronted): Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 15. Light Geese (snow, blue and Ross’s): Daily limit is 20, season-long possession is 60. Licenses Required: Base License and Waterfowl Hunting License. More information: 2022 Waterfowl Digest Turkey When: September 15th - November 14th. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun, crossbow, or compound bow. Where: Private or public lands within Washtenaw and Livingston Counties; only on private land within Oakland, Macomb, and St. Clair Counties. Bag Limit: One per kill tag. Licenses Required: Base License and Fall Turkey License. More information: 2022 Fall Turkey Digest Pheasant (male only) When: October 20th - November 14th and December 1st - January 1st. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 2, season-long possession is 4. Licenses Required: Base License and Pheasant License (required only for hunters 18 years of age and older hunting on public lands). Quail When: October 20th - November 14th. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties on private or public land. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10. Licenses Required: Base License. Ruffed Grouse When: September 15th - November 14th and December 1st - January 1st. Hunting Equipment: Shotgun. Where: Private or public lands within Southeastern Michigan. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 3, season-long possession is 6. Licenses Required: Base License. Fox and Gray Squirrel When: September 15th - March 31st. Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), limited firearm, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10. Licenses Required: Base License. Predator (Coyote, Russian Boar, Raccoon, Skunk, Weasel, Fox) When: October 1st - March 31st (raccoon); October 15th - March 31st (fox); year-round (coyote, Russian boar, skunk, and weasel). Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), limited firearm, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on public and private lands. Bag Limits: No limit. Licenses Required: Base License. Coyote, raccoon, and skunk may be taken by a property owner or designee without a license if doing or about to do damage on private property. More Information: 2022 Fur Harvester Digest Small Game (Rabbit, Red and Ground Squirrel, Woodchuck, Opossum, Porcupine) When: September 15th - March 31st (rabbit); year-round (red and ground squirrel, woodchuck, opossum, and porcupine). Hunting Equipment: Rifle (.22-caliber), limited firearm, compound bow, crossbow, or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: Daily limit is 5, season-long possession is 10 for rabbit; no limit for red and ground squirrel, woodchuck, opossum, and porcupine. Licenses Required: Base License. Woodchuck may be taken by a property owner or designee without a license if doing or about to do damage on private property. Small Birds (Feral Pigeons, Starling, and House Sparrows) When: Year-round Hunting Equipment: Shotgun or air gun. Where: Statewide on private or public land. Bag Limits: No limit. Licenses Required: Base License. Starlings and House Sparrows may be taken by a property owner or designee without a license if doing or about to do damage on private property. Please note that this cheatsheet is only a high-level and supplemental reference to the Michigan Hunting Digest. The digests linked to above include a broad range of very helpful and instructive information, such as legal shooting hours, species-specific limitations (e.g., ducks and other waterfowl), information on lawful stands and baiting practices, and penalties for violations. Any further inquiries regarding applicable rules and regulations should be directed to the Michigan Hunting Digest or DNR at 517-284-WILD. You can CLICK HERE to purchase any of the requisite licenses listed above. Best of luck this season!

September may be nearing its mid-point, but several amazing opportunities remain for closing out the summer and kicking off fall in Detroit's outdoors! Here are September's "Top Five Outdoor Events near Detroit" that are still coming down the pipeline this month. HOLY HIATUS! After nearly 3 weeks of time away from our laptops, largely spent exploring Scandinavian fjords and Teton ridge lines, our team is BACK IN THE SADDLE and ready to dive into Detroit's primetime fall outdoor season that's just around the corner. We'd like to first offer a special thank you for this community's patience while we went dark. We greatly appreciate you and fully intend to reward you for the effort. Stay tuned. As Sir Isaac Newton so eloquently confirmed, every action in nature has an equal and opposite reaction. For us at Expedition Detroit, that means that our extensive absence from the field resulted in missing nearly 2 weeks of outdoor events in September. Shoot. That being said, here's the silver lining: "shoulder season" months like September often provide the best value for unique outdoor recreation opportunities. Especially during the summer-to-fall period, the Detroit region's parks, campgrounds, waterways, and trails remain fine-tuned for exploration and relaxation. Squeezed right in between peak-summer crowds and the legions of peak-fall foliage fanatics, September also provides the ideal window to fully enjoy warm weather recreation without fighting for reservations, parking spots, or trail space. Without further delay, here are the Top 5 Outdoor Events near Detroit going down over the next few weeks in September. We can't wait to see you out there! 1. Fly Over to the Festival of Hawks September 16th - 17th | Holiday Beach Conservation Area | 10:00 a.m. Did you know that the Detroit region is home to one of the greatest migrations in North America? That's right - and our friends over in Amherstburg, Ontario plan the perfect annual event to celebrate and catch a glimpse of this rare feat. This year, Holiday Beach Conversation Area will host the 2023 Festival of Hawks - aka HawkFest - during which bird watchers and nature aficionados will observe the migration of tens of thousands of hawks and raptors flying overhead on their annual journey to nesting grounds in the south. The festival will also feature a range of free educational activities and nature-themed programming, all included with the price of admission ($20 CAD per vehicle). 2. Embrace Spooky Season by Dancing with the Devil (in the Dirt) September 23rd | Hell, Michigan | 6:15 p.m. Fall officially kicks off on September 23rd, along with everyone's favorite autumnal microseason: Spooky Season. For Detroit's outdoor faithful, there's no better way to kick off a month+ of ghosts and ghouls than racing through the trails of Hell on a 50K, 50 mile, or 55 mile team relay trail run. That's right - our friends at RF Events are hosting their annual "Dances with Dirt" race in Hell, Michigan this month. Don't let those distances completely scare you off, however; this event includes a post-race "bash" with food and drinks, finisher medals, age group awards, and eternal badass bragging rights. 3. Welcome Autumn at a State Harvest Festival September 29th - October 1st | Proud Lake State Recreation Area and Seven Lakes State Park | 12:00 p.m. Is there a better way to kick off fall in Michigan with a weekend camping trip? We can only think of one way: adding in a Harvest Festival to the trip! Just in time for the Harvest Moon, campers at either Proud Lake State Recreation Area or Seven Lakes State Park will enjoy a Michigan DNR-hosted "Harvest Festival." Each festival will include haunted hayrides, friendly hayrides, bonfires, crafts, scavenger hunts, archery, bounce houses, site decorating contest, costume parade, trick-or-treating, dancing, a popcorn bar, and other activities. Both of these events are only open to registered campers, so be sure to visit MIDNRReservations.com ASAP to reserve your spot! 4. Celebrate National Public Lands Day with a Free Hike September 30th | Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge | 10:30 a.m. Did you know that over 28% of Michigan comprises of publicly-owned land? That's right - well over a quarter of our beautiful state belongs to all of us, which is a fact worth remembering, protecting, and celebrating this month on National Public Lands Day! Right at the tail-end of September, head over to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge for a free guided hike along the Refuge's entire trail system. This 2 hour hike will cover a 5K trail along the Humbug Marsh, the last undeveloped mile of the Detroit River on the U.S. side of the river. This pristine marshland habitat will make for an unforgettable hiking experience! 5. Send It at the Shelden Mountain Bike Fest September 30th | Stony Creek Metropark | 3:00 p.m. Peak summer riding may have past, but fall still represents prime time for riding on the Detroit region's best mountain biking trails! Riders of all skill levels can get into the action during this month's Shelden Mountain Bike Fest, hosted jointly by the Huron-Clinton MetroParks and the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association. Riders will experience the thrill of the newly redeveloped Shelden Trails with fellow mountain bike enthusiasts, visit vendor and bike-related booths, enjoy some great food vendors, grab a beer to enjoy by the bonfire, and relax after hitting the trails with free s’mores from REI! BONUS: COME EXPLORE WITH US!! Throughout September (and beyond!) | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Fall colors are JUST AROUND THE CORNER, and there's no better way to experience them than at our regional Michigan State Parks! Not sure where to explore? No problem - we've curated dozens of guided trips intended to showcase the best of the best of the Detroit region's outdoors. The Expedition Detroit team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach across ELEVEN of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience. We will be gradually adding new guided trips over the coming weeks, as well as special trips like night hikes, photography-specific treks, and eventually guided snowshoe, mountain biking, and kayaking trips. So, stay tuned friends. We can't wait to host you on one of our trips soon! P.S. Subscribers to our content get discounts on our Guided Services AND online store items..... Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

This summer, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks launched their inaugural Metroparks Trail Challenge: completing 13 "challenge trails" across all 13 Metroparks. We took the bait and completed the challenge with a twist - all 13 trails with 13 days. Happy Trails! The Expedition Detroit team is a sucker for a good challenge. Think Marty McFly's "Don't call me chicken" mentality. And especially when said challenge occurs in the outdoors. Back in early May, we published an article focused entirely on the best "Adventure Challenges" for Summer 2023. In full transparency, that article was inspired by one singular, monumental adventure challenge: the recently-launched Metroparks Trail Challenge. Equal parts scavenger hunt and endurance feat, this challenge seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore the Detroit region's pristine Metroparks with mission. A fun-filled, award-earning extra reason to get outdoors. As our crazy summer stretched on, however, we found that completing the Metroparks Trail Challenge proved a more daunting task than anticipated. Launching our guided trips platform through the Detroit area's beautiful Michigan State Parks system meant less time for exploring the Metroparks. Throw in a few trips, meetings, and the general time drain of modern life, and the prognosis for a timely completion of the Metroparks Trail Challenge looked daunting at best. So, we gave up. Haaa. Of course we didn't - in fact, we doubled-down by adding an extra variable: completing the Metroparks Trail Challenge, encompassing 13 trail challenges across all 13 Metroparks, within 13 days. An epic expedition that would require dedication, most likely multi-park days, and whirlwind tour of some of the most immaculate and diverse outdoor destinations within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. With the plan set, it was time to kick off our challenge. Here's how went: DAY ONE: AUGUST 5, 2023 THE CHALLENGE BEGINS! This journey began exploring the Metroparks closet to Ann Arbor and Dexter - a relatively continuous journey up the Huron River and largely along the scenic Border-to-Border Trail. Come for rapids and river-views. Stay for the meadows, bridges, wildlife, and perfectly-placed beach picnic locations. DELHI METROPARK | Ann Arbor, MI Metropark Highlights: Nestled in a quiet bend of the Huron River, Delhi Metropark offers natural beauty to enjoy. You’ll find mature stands of oak trees, open lawns and well-maintained ecosystems along the water that herons, turtles, and deer call home. Relax in the fresh air with family and friends under the park's picnic shelter or give kids the space to explore on Delhi's playground. Fan favorite activities include a bike ride along the B2B Trail or exploring the Huron River by canoe or kayak. Recreational Activity: Hiking with the trail pup Challenge Trail: B2B Trail Mileage: 1.6 miles DEXTER-HURON METROPARK | Dexter, MI Metropark Highlights: Peace and rejuvenation wait your arrival at Dexter-Huron Metropark. The park invites you to get out into nature and experience the rich ecosystems along the Huron River. Dexter-Huron's dense woodlands, open fields, and gently flowing waters are home to a variety of unique plants and animals. Spend the day picnicking, biking, fishing, or paddling the Huron River. Recreational Activity: Hiking with the trail pup Challenge Trail: B2B Trail Mileage: 2.5 miles (point-to-point) HUDSON MILLS METROPARK | Dexter, MI Metropark Highlights: Discover the best of the Huron River at Hudson Mills Metropark. This park features some of the most picturesque spots on the Huron and is popular with anglers, hikers, and paddlers alike. Hikers and bikers especially have access to well-maintained trails that connect to Downtown Dexter and sports enthusiasts will find plenty of space to play ball. In winter, the park's cross-country ski trails provide an excellent way to maintain your fitness. Recreational Activity: Hiking with the trail pup Challenge Trail: Hike-Bike Trail Loop Mileage: 3.1 miles DAY SEVEN: AUGUST 11, 2023 Yikes... A whole week burned in the blink of an eye. Amazing how knocking out three parks along the Metroparks Trail Challenge can instill a false sense of confidence, even for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Any world-class outdoor challenge requires endurance and resilience, and the Metroparks Trail Challenge is no different. Even with the weather forecast predicting heavy afternoon storms, I knew that I couldn't risk burning another day. With no time to lose, I packed up the trail pup and sprinted out to Brighton for Trail #4. HURON MEADOWS METROPARK | Brighton, MI Metropark Highlights: Huron Meadows Metropark features a vignette of nature’s finest scenery, providing visitors with an opportunity to let the pressures of modern life fade away under the park's dense forests and wildlife-rich wetlands. The park offers year-round access to some of Southeast Michigan’s best recreation, including casting a line off the pier at Maltby Lake, inviting family or friends for a picnic under a shelter, or spending the day wandering the trails and observing wildlife. In winter, glide through the landscape on well-groomed cross-country ski paths. Recreational Activity: Hiking with the trail pup Challenge Trail: Maltby Rustic Trail Mileage: 1.7 miles DAY TEN: AUGUST 14, 2023 Double-digit days mean time to conquer some trails at double-speed! Although nothing beats hiking with the trail pup, I opted to switch up my hiking boots for my trail runners and stretch out my typical #MondayMiles over the four southernmost - and new to the Expedition Detroit team - Metroparks near Lake Erie. LAKE ERIE METROPARK | Brownstown Charter Township, MI Metropark Highlights: Located just a short drive from the Gibraltar and Rockwood, three miles of captivating shoreline await you at Lake Erie Metropark. Enjoy 1,607 acres of exceptional views that you’ll only find along a Great Lake, along with plenty of opportunities for recreation. With trails for hiking, paved trails for biking, a “Great Wave” pool, cross-country skiing, and some of the best birding in Southeast Michigan, you’ll find great ways to move, learn and enjoy nature all year long. Recreational Activity: Trail running Challenge Trail: Cherry Island Nature Trail Mileage: 1.6 miles OAKWOODS METROPARK | New Boston, MI Metropark Highlights: Scenic woodlands and picturesque views of the Huron River anticipate your arrival at Oakwoods Metropark. The park's 1,756-acre park features well-tended trails that meander through mature woodlands, a Nature Center filled with easy ways to discover the great outdoors, fishing spots, and a designated monarch butterfly waystation. Spend the day paddling the Huron River or hiking the trails or enjoying a program at the Nature Center. Recreational Activity: Trail running Challenge Trail: Big Tree Nature Trail Mileage: 0.8 miles WILLOW METROPARK | New Boston, MI Metropark Highlights: Escape the daily grind and explore the immaculate scenery of Willow Metropark. You’ll find 1,532 acres of mature woodlands and scenic views of the Huron River. Stop by for a walk, a hike or a bike ride along the Huron River on our hike-bike trail or schedule a tee time to play our 18-hole golf course or 24-hole disc golf course. Anglers will find plenty of great fishing spots here along the river. In winter, Willow Metropark transforms into a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, with cross-country skiing and great sledding hills. Recreational Activity: Paved trail running Challenge Trail: Hike-Bike Trail - North Loop Mileage: 3.7 miles LOWER HURON METROPARK | Belleville, MI Metropark Highlights: With easy access from I-275 and I-94, you’re never far from the natural beauty of Lower Huron Metropark. At Lower Huron, you’ll find 1,256 acres of mature woodlands, grassy meadows, and easy access to one of the most beautiful stretches of the Huron River. Run or inline skate along the park's paved hike-bike trail, or opt to shoreline fish or canoe along the Huron and observe waterfowl and other wildlife on the water. Recreational Activity: Trail running Challenge Trail: Woods Creek Rustic Trail Mileage: 3.1 miles DAY ELEVEN: AUGUST 15, 2023 Golden hour remains undefeated for an ethereal hiking experience - especially immediately after storms. I couldn't help but capitalize on venturing out to one of the more isolated of the Metroparks under these conditions. As the sun slowly set over the short Lupine Loop Trail, I took my time being present in the moment. Enjoying and appreciating the late-summer wildflowers and dive-bombing geese. Taking in the scenic views from the Outwash Overlook. Trying to catch a glimpse of an extremely-rare eastern massasauga rattlesnake, the only venomous snake native to the Detroit region. And, in general, simply expressing gratitude for the ability to explore so many beautiful destinations located so close to home. INDIAN SPRINGS METROPARK | White Lake, MI Metropark Highlights: Towering trees and native ecosystems offer visitors a window into the past right at Indian Springs Metropark. Come learn the natural history of the Detroit region at the Environmental Discovery Center or enjoy mile after mile of trails through prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. The quiet natural setting of this land also features a paved hike-bike trail, winter cross-country skiing, sledding, and much more. Recreational Activity: Hiking solo Challenge Trail: Lupine Loop Nature Trail Mileage: 0.7 miles DAY TWELVE: AUGUST 16, 2023 Day 12 was for the birds. Literally and figuratively. "Bluebird Sky" conditions. Freely swimming swans. Inquisitive doves, ducks, and red-winged blackbirds. And, to top it all off, a family of sandhill cranes that made it their lives' mission to get as close to me as possible. I wasn't expecting for a two-ish mile hike to turn into an action-packed bird safari, but - as countless visitors to Kensington can attest - you never know what outdoor adventures you'll inadvertently stumble into when visiting the largest Metropark. KENSINGTON METROPARK | Milford, MI Metropark Highlights: Kensington Metropark offers 4,481 acres of wooded, hilly terrain surrounding beautiful Kent Lake. The park provides a home to an abundance of wildlife and waterfowl, as well as a multitude of recreation opportunities available throughout the year. From biking and boating to cross-country skiing and ice fishing, taking a swim at one of Kensington's beaches, or just spending the day fishing, hiking, or picnicking along the water. Kensington has a unique adventure in store for each visitor to its expansive shores, dense forests, and rolling hills. Recreational Activity: Hiking solo Challenge Trail: Wildwing Nature Trail Mileage: 1.9 miles DAY THIRTEEN: AUGUST 17, 2023 Then there were three... For the fateful Day 13, only the Metropark's three most eastern AND northern destinations remained. As someone primarily located on the southwestern edge of the Detroit region, getting out to these final parks alone had always represented a daunting challenge looming in the back of my mind. Throw in the storms on the forecast for August 17th, and I genuinely had doubts whether completing the Metroparks Trail Challenge in 13 days would actually be doable. Naturally, I threw caution to both the literal and proverbial wind, packed in my rain gear, and ventured out to the glistening shores of Lake St. Clair. LAKE ST. CLAIR METROPARK | Harrison Township, MI Metropark Highlights: At Lake St. Clair Metropark, you’ll find abundant recreational activities for every interest. Whether you're an aficionado of bird watching, windsurfing, kiteboarding, boating, bicycling or swimming, you can get your recreational fix in there along the shores of Lake St. Clair. Visitors can readily bike, hike, jog, or in-line skate along the park's paved trail or hop out on the water from its marina. The fun continues into winter, with ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating with friends and family. Recreational Activity: Hiking solo Challenge Trail: Marsh Forest and Meadow Nature Trails Mileage: 1.4 miles WOLCOTT MILL METROPARK | Ray, MI Metropark Highlights: Spending a day at Wolcott Mill Metropark means having access to four unique areas connected by nature and history. You’ll find a working farm, one of America’s last remaining grist mills – built nearly 200 years ago – a park complete with trails, picnic shelters, and a trail system all ready for exploration and enjoyment. The park also features sheep, goats, chickens, geese, horses and dairy cows reflecting Michigan’s agricultural heritage. Equestrians can also bring their own horse for riding Wolcott Mill's equestrian trails. Recreational Activity: Hiking solo Challenge Trail: Mother Earth Nature Trail Mileage: 0.75 miles (map shows combined Nature Trails) STONY CREEK METROPARK | Shelby Township, MI Metropark Highlights: Last but CERTAINLY not least, Stony Creek Metropark offers 4,435 scenic acres teeming with opportunities for outdoor recreation all year long. At the heart of the park sits the gorgeous 500-acre Stony Creek Lake, where boaters, anglers, and swimmers can spend time enjoying a day on the water. Surrounding this serene lake, you’ll find lush woodlands, gorgeous wetlands, tallgrass prairies, and expansive fields in every direction. Stony Creek also maintains fantastic paved and natural trails for hikers, cyclists, in-line skaters, and general wanderers. In winter, watch the park transform into a world of snowshoeing, fat tire mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and more. Recreational Activity: Paved Trail Biking Challenge Trail: Hike-Bike Trail Loop Mileage: 6.5 miles We'd like to close out this article by NOT recommending that you follow suit with tackling all 13 parks in 13 days. Is it doable? Yes, clearly - and there was an undeniable beauty in experiencing each of these diverse landscapes and destinations in such a brief window of time. However, our largest takeaway from completing the Metroparks Trail Challenge remains that each and every one of these parks constitutes a world-class destination in their own right. Parks, trails, and waterways that you could spend a lifetime exploring while constantly uncovering new, "off the beaten path" discoveries. Pristine landscapes uniquely designed for welcoming recreationists of all interests, backgrounds, and abilities. For Expedition Detroit, the 2023 Metroparks Trail Challenge is over. But our lifetime adventure of fully experiencing our Metroparks has just begun with this speed-dating introduction to all 13 parks. And, as always, we invite you to join us on the journey.

As the Michigan Department of Natural Resources finalizes its "Parks and Recreation Division Strategic Plan" for 2023-2027, the Michigan DNR has turned to us - the #TrailsState nation - for feedback. Here's our take on, and suggestions for, the current draft of the Strategic Plan. Every five years, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (the "Michigan DNR") rolls up their sleeves, wades into a half-decade of data, and taps into their collective brainstorming power. The Michigan DNR takes these actions with one singular goal: progress. Progress in terms of improving the protection and preservation of Michigan's natural and cultural resources. Provision of access to outdoor recreation and education resources. Expansion and operation of an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic natural ecosystem. Ensuring the sustainability and viability of our natural resources, so that they will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. Since Expedition Detroit's founding, we have sought to partner with the Michigan DNR in each of these ambitions. Yes, the sustainability of the Detroit region's outdoor recreation industry is a business interest that we are heavily invested in. Beyond that superficial alignment, however, we also recognize that without the Michigan DNR's tireless and often thankless service to Michigan's outdoors - dispersed across 103 state parks, more than 300,000 acres of public land, 140 state forest campgrounds, 13,750 state park campsites, and over 14,430 miles of state-designated trails - the vast majority of our state's wilderness areas and wild experiences would simply not exist. We are collectively indebted beyond measure to the Michigan DNR. Thankfully, we have an opportunity right now to give back to both support the Michigan DNR while influencing the future of our outdoors. Between now and January 20th, the Michigan DNR has requested for the public to review and comment on its working draft of its Parks and Recreation Division Strategic Plan for 2023-2027, which identifies goals and objectives for the Michigan DNR to prioritize over the upcoming five-year period. This "public review" period constitutes one of the final and most important phases of the Strategic Plan's drafting process before funds get allocated, recreational rights get prioritized, and work boots hit the trails. Don't worry - we have already read through the draft Strategic Plan and will provide a "sparknotes" summary here. We also took the initiative to propose three corresponding suggestions for the Michigan DNR to consider for their final draft. Here's our take on the working draft of the Michigan DNR's 5 Year Strategic Plan: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Actions Aimed at Tackling Pandemic and Climate Change Challenges Friends, we have some good news and bad news for you. Always starting with the bad, if you clicked on this article hoping for a fiery evisceration or hostile takedown of the Michigan DNR's planned operations, then this is not the article for you. Sorry (but not really). That leaves us with the good news: we couldn't be more excited to endorse the operations and key objectives that the DNR has proposed for the upcoming 5 years. Especially given the 30% increase in visitor traffic that our state lands have experienced since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Michigan DNR has recognized the momentous responsibility on its shoulders resulting from unprecedented recreational interest throughout our state. While this historic uptick in outdoor recreation has generated $26.6 billion for our state's tourism industry, the tidal wave of visitors has exacerbated management and staffing issues, strained environmental sustainability safeguards, and brought underlying fundamental issues like infrastructure maintenance and stakeholder inclusion to the foreground. In light of the changes and challenges experienced during the pandemic-era, here are the six primary issues (presented without priority) that the DNR has identified for addressing during the next 5 years: 1. Continued Recreation and Resource Conservation. The DNR's facilities continue to experience higher visitation, resulting in greater resource impacts and demands to expand traditional recreation endeavors, as well as developing innovative recreation opportunities. Combating forest health issues, such as emerald ash borer, oak wilt and hemlock wooly adelgid, in addition to other invasive species, will also remain a top priority for the longevity of Michigan's state parks. 2. Environmental Sustainability. The effects of climate change remain a potent threat to Michigan's ecosystem, and the Michigan DNR has made a commitment to utilizing public lands towards mitigate those effects. The Michigan DNR will install renewable energy systems to reduce its carbon footprint, add electric vehicle charging stations at state parks and marinas, increase the use of electric equipment at its facilities, and expand and promote waste reduction and recycling programs. 3. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice. In line with the greater outdoor recreation industry, the Michigan DNR will remain committed to fostering and promoting an environment focused on equity and inclusion to expand and broaden the diversity of its visitors and workforce. Continued review of the Michigan DNR's operations and facilities will identify where improvements are required to ensure the provision of acceptable service to all visitors, regardless of ability, ethnic background, and location. 4. Funding. While the $250 million in funding from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act will benefit a significant portion of the state parks’ infrastructure needs, the Michigan DNR anticipates that sustained inflation, raw material shortages, and implementing many large projects - in less than five years - will trigger additional fiscal challenges. 5. Management and Administration. The Michigan DNR administrative challenges have included updating policies and procedures to meet changing needs, keeping pace with essential technology advances, and responding to political and public pressures. The Michigan DNR will aim to improve its operational efficiencies through forming strategic partnerships, enhanced data management capacity, improved technology, and refining its general business practices. 6. Staffing. Occupational pressure on Michigan DNR employees has grown significantly over the past 5 years due to staffing shortages and increased use of Michigan DNR facilities brought on by unprecedented recreational usage, both of which were spurred on by the COVID-19 pandemic. To summarize, the DNR is aiming to utilize the next five years towards rectifying, improving, and preventing the challenges faced during the last five years - and especially during the peak pandemic era. As we're all painfully aware, the changes that occurred across the country during 2020 brought several endemic political, societal, and economic issues to light. Conversely, the pandemic also shone a spotlight on the value of outdoor recreation, both in terms of its economic and social benefits. These six goals reflect the DNR's acceptance that its management, staffing, resource allocation, environmental sustainability, and social equity initiatives require significant further development and investment in order to surpass recent challenges. We applaud the Michigan DNR for the prioritization of these goals...but we also think that even more specificity should be included. Especially for the benefit of the Detroit region. EXPEDITION DETROIT SUGGESTIONS: FURTHER SPECIFY PLANNED OBJECTIVES Out of the DNR's six stated objectives, the only one that we thought could and should be further refined is #1: to preserve, protect, maintain and restore Michigan’s natural and cultural resources on DNR-administered lands. Don't get us wrong, this goal by itself is fantastic. However, after reading - and re-reading - the draft Strategic Plan, we found the lack of specificity on clear objectives to be underwhelming. In light of this sole critique (and to avoid any accusations of hypocrisy), here are three specific suggestions that we propose for inclusion in the final Strategic Plan: 1. Acquisition and Preservation of Reclaimed Green Space. As we have all witnessed over the last few decades, the cityscape of the City of Detroit has changed dramatically. Rising skyscrapers downtown and reclaimed lots from previously blighted structures represent the most visible manifestations of a living, evolving, and resurgent city. A great American city. Our city. The Expedition Detroit team encourages the Michigan DNR to further invest in the future of Detroit through active participation in the reclamation and development of the city's vacant lands. In line with the DNR's goal of preserving Michigan's natural resources, the conservation of such vacant lands via the establishment of new parks and natural areas would permanently protect critical portions of Detroit's growing "open space network," as well as ensure that nature, food systems, and recreational health opportunities are preserved throughout the city. On a practical level, the successful development of the Detroit Riverfront, William G. Milliken State Park, the Michigan DNR's Outdoor Adventure Center, and the upcoming developments at Ralph Wilson Park, represent recent examples of a long history of vacant land acquisitions turned into beneficial green spaces for outdoor recreation. Looking ahead towards the next five years, we absolutely endorse - and expect - the Michigan DNR to continue this productive, inclusive, and sustainable trend. 2. Expansion of Backpacking Opportunities. As we have published nearly ad nauseum, our mission involves the creation and acceleration of value for Detroit’s emerging outdoor industry. This mission specifically includes providing guidance for discovering this region’s best outdoor experiences, and as such we have concentrated our research efforts towards a deep dive into every facet of Detroit's outdoor recreation industry. While our research has uncovered a lifetime's worth of beautiful, awe-inspiring recreational opportunities, there is one specific field where we're sorely lacking: backpacking opportunities. Yes, we have the spectacular Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, Chief Pontiac Trail, and a few other longer trails that we could generously stretch to be considered a bona fide "backpacking trail." But look, let's be honest - backpacking is Detroit's pain point, so let's change the narrative by actively investing in our backpacking resources. Here's the good news: the Michigan DNR is already deep into the process of developing trail infrastructure that will support the future of Southeast Michigan backpacking. The DNR's forthcoming Iron Belle Trail represents the greatest opportunity to efficiently address this problem, especially since it intersects and corresponds directly with other trail networks like the B2B Trail, Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, North Country National Scenic Trail, and - eventually - the Trans Canada Trail. Put differently, the Michigan DNR has absolutely nailed it when planning the Iron Belle's route across both peninsulas. There's only one key component that's still missing, and one that I directly posed to a Michigan DNR representative at the Southeast Michigan Regional Trails Summit last month. For the Iron Belle to represent a true "backpacking route," let's say of a North Country or Appalachian Trail caliber, the Michigan DNR must invest further in building or facilitating campground construction for thru hikers. In the current iteration of the Iron Belle's interactive map, accessible campgrounds for backpackers aren't available until Waterloo State Recreation Area. Ultralight be damned, one does not simply walk from Belle Isle to Waterloo in a day... For Michigan to firmly establish itself as the "Trails State," we need more campgrounds for backpackers. Period. 3. Eradication of Oriental Bittersweet. If you have spent any time hiking in the Detroit region - especially along its outer, western rim - then I'm willing to bet that you've encountered the dangerously invasive Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) vine. If you're not sure what I'm referring to, take a hike through Highland State Recreation Area, Maybury State Park, or really any other state park or recreation area. Honestly, we'd be impressed if you didn't notice acres upon acres of long, interwoven vines, some of which are as thick as tree trunks. These vines are literally and figuratively strangling our region's natural vegetation with boa constrictor efficiency. Oriental Bittersweet poses several significant risks to our great outdoors and the recreationists that enjoy them. Beyond climbing and overtaking native trees and shrubs, the vines add immense weight to tree canopies, leading to breakage of otherwise secure trees and branches. I kid you not, my buddy's dad nearly lost his life on Opening Day of bow season last fall when an Oriental Bittersweet-strangled tree fell during our mid-day break and crushed his pop-up blind. Yes, we acknowledge and applaud that the Strategic Plan already addresses the removal of invasive species as a key component of its 5 year agenda. Call us particular, but we simply would like to see Oriental Bittersweet specifically listed as a top public enemy on the DNR's "kill list" for 2023-2027. This shouldn't come as a surprise, either; the Michigan DNR has already published public notices regarding the identification and eradication of the vine, including best practices for its removal. In other words, Oriental Bittersweet is a dangerously prolific invasive species that the Michigan DNR already knows how to effectively kill. We are simply asking for the department to flex some conservation muscle and release the kraken on this pest. We strongly encourage each of you to also read the entirety of the draft Strategic Plan, as well as provide your own comments to the Michigan DNR via DNR-PRD-Planning@Michigan.gov. What do you think of our suggestions? Any important ideas or considerations that you would like to add? Let us know in the comments below!

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 backpacking crew jeers me for carrying 45 pounds on my back over the peaks of the renown Four Pass Loop Trail in Colorado - which, to my credit, I handled with ease. But on this particular trek, my pack wasn't the gear item that I felt weighing me down. It was my boots. My hiking boots. The same hiking boots that had humbly carried me and my apparently sadistically-heavy pack across one of Colorado's most rigorous thru-hikes. Boots that now felt more and more like anvils with every step towards Proud Lake. Despite my growing delirium from the mileage, time of night, and growing discomfort in my feet, I started to hypothesize about the pros and cons of utilizing trail running shoes vs. hiking boots for thru-hikes. My gut told me that trail running shoes might have been a better choice for the Chief Pontiac Trail, especially since I had recently touched on this exact topic when first connecting with the team at Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear, one of our Expedition Partners. Turns out that the larger outdoor community has also wrestled with this inquiry - it's even commonly referenced as "The Great Trail Debate." And, as with all great debates, the consensus remains mixed at best. We at Expedition Detroit aren't the biggest fans of "It depends" types of answers - even if that's the most prudent response. Here, we're putting hiking boots and trail running shoes head-to-head to determine which footwear is best for which conditions. More importantly, we're diving into which recreational footwear we recommend for conquering the Detroit region's trails. Let's test my hypothesis and meet the contenders: HIKING BOOTS: Old Faithful Greatest Strengths: Stability, durability, foot and ankle protection, excellent traction, and additional warmth. Largest Drawbacks: Necessary break-in period, heavy, bulky frame, single-use, lack of breathability, and typically more expensive. Best Conditions: Hiking or backpacking through snow or mud, steep ascents or descents, or rock, rubble, overgrowth, or root-filled conditions. Expedition Detroit's Recommended Hiking Boots Danner Mountain 600 Full-Grain Leather Hiking Boot Designed to withstand the climate and terrain of the Pacific Northwest, the Danner "Mountain 600r Hiking Boot" forges a new path in hiking footwear. Combining decades of classic styling with lightweight innovation, this boot is the perfect hiking companion. Its full-grain leather upper is backed by a waterproof Danner Dry liner to block moisture from the outside and wick moisture from the inside for greater comfort. The new Vibram SPE midsole enhances rebound and support to keep us comfortable to the hike's end. A Vibram Fuga outsole features self-adapting lugs and Megagrip compound for superior grip on wet and dry surfaces. Built on the DPDX last, this boot has a low profile for everyday wear, whether we're on the trail or exploring new towns. Price: $209.95 Salomon Outpulse Mid GTX Hiking Boot Thanks to its GORE-TEX membrane, Salomon's "Outpulse Mid GTX Hiking Boot" will keep your feet dry and comfortable even when the sky opens up. The rockered midsole geometry and high-energy materials are manufactured to maintain your speed in any conditions. Additional, the Salomon boot features durable synthetic uppers crafted from both recycled and waste products, OrthoLite footbed cushions steps for all-day comfort, and an "All Terrain Contagrip" sole that offers traction on wet, dry, and loose surfaces. Price: $159.95 Merrell Moab 3 Prime Mid WP Hiking Boot The Detroit region's sandy trails and muddy marshes are no match for Merrell's "Moab 3 Prime WP Hiking Boot." The boot optimizes for plenty of breathability when trekking through variable biomes while still giving waterproof protection thanks to Merrell's "M Select Dry" membrane. The hiking boot's Vibram TC5+ outsole also provides for loads of grip no matter the type of terrain you plan on exploring. Additional features include an "Air Cushion" heel and EVA midsole for enhanced stability and comfort, a vibram rubber outsole that doesn't easily slip on wet, loose ground, and a rubber toe cap helps prevent stubbing your toe too hard. Price: $164.95 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES: New Kids on the Trail Greatest Strengths: Breathability, little or no break-in period, lightweight, versatile, moderate to excellent traction, and typically less expensive. Largest Drawbacks: Less stability and durability, less ankle protection, little to no warmth value, and will require more frequent replacement. Best Conditions: Mostly dry trails with moderate incline and fairly predictable conditions. Expedition Detroit's Recommended Trail Running Shoes Hoka Speedgoat 5 Our personal favorite trail running shoes (I'm about to purchase my 5th pair), Hoka's "Speedgoat 5" easily handles root and rock-riddled singletrack trails. Now a half ounce lighter than Hoka's earlier Speedgoat renditions, this racer has picked up the pace while still padding strikes and energizing toe offs. The sandwich mesh upper will keep your feet breathing easy, while the aggressive lugs solidify footing up steep inclines, around switchbacks, and back down to the moraine floor. Hoka's double layer mesh also delivers durable breathability for its trail running shoes. Price: $154.95 Altra Lone Peak 7 Now equipped with a stitch-free upper, the Altra "Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe" provides that coveted plush feel inside and out. The energetic foam softens rocky sections while still powering trekkers and trail runners into fast transitions, and the trail running shoes' multi-directional lugs provide stabilizing traction to reduce power leaks on toe off. Additional features of Altra's latest trail running shoes include a flexible air mesh upper for breathable, quick-dry performance, a foot-shaped design including a roomy toe box for natural toe splay, and a 0mm drop that encourages a natural gait and mid-foot strike. Price: $149.95 La Sportiva Bushido II Designed for serious runners and hikers taking on technical terrain, the La Sportiva "Bushido II Trail Running Shoe" has earned its well-regarded reputation. Runners and hikers should expect the same low-volume performance fit, same drop, same low weight, same snug fit, and same outsole rubber and lug pattern as the Bushido I trail running shoes. With this iteration, La Sportiva has added their proprietary LaSpEVA in an effort to create a more responsive and springier ride to keep runners and hikers more comfortable through longer distances. These trail running shoes also feature a more breathable mesh fabric that still retains the same durability for tackling more rugged terrain. Price: $155.00 OUR EDGE FOR DETROIT REGION HIKING The moment of truth has arrived: which trail footwear do we recommend for Detroit region backpacking and hiking? We give the official Expedition Detroit edge to trail running shoes...but with a few caveats. First, if you have a medical history of weak ankles, flat feet, or a history of falling injuries, then you should strongly consider opting for hiking boots - even if leisurely hiking along easier trails. Second, if you are planning on thru-hiking any of Detroit's three "Black Diamond Trails" - the steepest, rockiest, ruttiest, and all-around most challenging trails in our region - then sporting hiking boots represents your best bet for an injury free-journey. Last, if you're venturing out into less hospitable conditions, such as trails heavily laden with mud, snow, or overgrowth like certain segments of the Chief Pontiac Trail, then opt for the boots. Those caveats aside, the Detroit region's hiking trails provide ideal territory for trail running shoes usage. Yes, our parks and trails have surprisingly notable ascents and descents, but the traction of each of the trail running shoes highlighted above can readily handle those variables. Add in the versatility of usage that trail running shoes provide beyond just running, and you may just fall in love with your new favorite pair of recreational footwear. Looking to put your new trail running shoes or hiking boots to the test? Come explore the most beautiful, beloved, enjoyable, or challenging trails within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit with us! We lead guided trips across 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas. Book your next adventure with Expedition Detroit today!

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 got the gift card winnings to back up the extensiveness of this very specific genre of knowledge. So we'll see if you're still laughing when the final jeopardy category comes up as African geography... Anyways, as I grew up, this random childhood peculiarity gradually evolved into a decades-long interest in scouting backcountry routes, planning international trips, and utilizing satellite imaging via Google Maps to identify "hole in the wall" or hidden gem outdoor destinations. I loaned this skillset to Expedition Detroit when first building out our "Destinations Map," a near-exhaustive collection of every park, trailhead, launching point, ski resort, and other noteworthy outdoor space within an hour's drive of Downtown Detroit. What was my complex, algorithmic methodology for identifying such spaces? I opened Google Maps and looked for the color green. Seriously. And the darker the green, the more expansive the outdoor space. Here's a screenshot for reference: Yes, this non-satellite layer omits a multitude of incredible outdoor spaces within the core of Metro Detroit. However, glance over at the western edge of this map - the extensive, darkest shade of green that runs largely consecutively from Grass Lake to north or Auburn Hills. An area whose scope includes several of our region's most beloved "Trail Towns," including Brighton, Chelsea, Holly, Lake Orion, Milford, and Pinckney. If you dig a little deeper, you'll soon realize that this area also constitutes one of the largest and most unique, rugged, adventurous, historic, and collectively protected swaths of land found within the entire Great Lakes region. The home of 12 Michigan state parks and recreation areas, 5 Michigan state game and wildlife areas, 4 Huron-Clinton Metroparks, 2 county parks, and several independent natural preservation areas. This coveted area is the focal point of this article: the massive area geologically identified as the Jackson Interlobate Range (the "JIR"), but we'd like to informally dub it here as the "Detroit Mountains." 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. As such, while the diminishing lobes ubiquitously 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. 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. The first human inhabitants of southeast Michigan arrived roughly 10,000 years ago, shortly after the glaciers finally completed their full retreat from the Great Lakes region. Rather than a landscape in geological turmoil, these first nations made their homes among the JIR's hilly and forested landscape and navigated its rivers and lakes for commerce and travel. European and American settlers would follow suit in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, including the establishment of the region's first permanent settlements and farms. From a conservation perspective, most of the stunning Michigan state parks and recreation areas located within the JIR date back to 1943 - when the Michigan Department of Conservation founded Waterloo State Recreation Area, the largest state recreation area. 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, not only have recreationists crossing several generations been afforded the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of the JIR, but the region has continued to serve as the natural home for rare species and habitats. NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE JIR The highlands of the JIR cover an area of roughly 2,580 miles and reach elevations oscillating between 750 to 1,330 feet in elevation. The largest of the kettle lakes and ponds scattered throughout the JIR form the headwaters of several major rivers throughout the Detroit region, including the Huron, Grand, Kalamazoo, and St. Joseph Rivers. The highest points of the JIR include several of Detroit's "Big Four" ski resorts, include Pine Knob (1,286 ft.), Mt. Holly (1,240 ft.), and Mt. Brighton (1,330 ft.). The general height of the JIR's hills also tends to increase along the range's northeastern trajectory, with average peaks in parks like Holly Recreation Area reaching greater elevations than those in Waterloo or Pinckney Recreation Area. The JIR also provides an ecological home to several rare species of plants and animals. The range features a rare habitat called an "oak savanna" - a lightly-forested grassland environment featuring oaks as the dominant tree. Once prevalent throughout North America, oak savannas have now largely disappeared from the continent due to agricultural production and fire suppression. Detroit's Mountains also harbor one of the most elusive wildlife gems of the entire Great Lakes region: the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, Michigan's only venomous snake and only one of two rattlesnake species that exist throughout our corner of North America. RECOMMENDED TRIPS FOR EXPLORING THE JIR Ladies and gentlemen, congratulations: you've made it to the really fun part of the article. Now that we've spent the better part of the last year exploring the JIR's heights and depths, here are Expedition Detroit's top-recommended trips for exploring the JIR. BACKPACK THE WATERLOO-PINCKNEY TRAIL Trip Length: 38.5 miles Duration: 3 or 4 days (depending on campground reservations) Recommended Exploration Method: Backpacking, Hiking, or Trail Running (only if you're an expert) The pinnacle of world-class outdoor experiences in the Detroit region, we strongly recommend that local recreationists escape to their local wilderness for a long weekend to hike the nearly 40 miles and 4,000 elevation gain of the famous Waterloo-Pinckney Trail! I completed a solo thru-hike of the WPT back in April, during which I represented the sole thru-backpacker along the entirety of the trail. I completed the trail over 3 days/2 nights, camping at the Pines and Green Lake Campgrounds. Experienced backpackers could easily follow suit, although new or growing backpackers should add in a third night at Blind Lake Campground to rest their legs for the final push. Interested in learning more about backpacking the WPT? Be sure to check out our 3-part series on the trail! THRU-PADDLE THE UPPER HURON FROM PROUD LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA TO HURON MEADOWS METROPARK Location: Proud Lake State Recreation Area, Kensington Metropark, Island Lake State Recreation Area, and Huron Meadows Metropark Trip Length: 22.9 miles Duration: 2 or 3 days (depending on campground reservations) Recommended Exploration Method: Kayaking and Canoe Camping While the high ridges of the JIR provide the main draw to exploring this geographic anomaly of the Detroit region, the constant presence of the Huron River throughout the area provides the low-lying marshland ying to the yang of the hilltop peaks. Especially the northwestern stretches of the Upper Huron River, which paddlers typically follow from one of Proud Lake Recreation Area's several launching points to their dock of choice downstream. The trip highlighted above can either be paddled in day-trip segments or as one continuous canoe camping thru-paddle utilizing the Huron River National Water Trail's two canoe campgrounds at Kensington Metropark and Island Lake State Recreation Area. CONQUER HIGHLAND'S A-B-C-D LOOPS Location: Highland State Recreation Area Trip Length: 13.7 miles Duration: 1 - 6 hours (depending on recreational activity) Recommended Exploration Method: Mountain Biking, Trail Running, or Hiking If you have the masochistic desire to conquer the most grueling terrain of the JIR - scratch that, the entire Detroit region - then do we have the trail system for you. Meet Highland Recreation Area's A-B-C-D trail loops, unanimously hailed as the most rigorous of the only three "Black Diamond"-rated trail systems within the Detroit region. Although built for and maintained by mountain bikers, the "Alphabet Loops" are also utilized by hikers and the most extreme of our trail runners. Please note that the vast majority of first-time bikers, runners, and hikers do NOT complete all four loops in a single outing. These trails are very technical, so we strongly advise that you ride, run, or hike with at least one other person every time that you attempt Highland's loops - or at the very least give your friends and family a heads up. Kudos to you if/when you complete all of the loops in a single day, regardless of your exploration method of choice! My fellow geography nerds, history buffs, and adventure seekers - brothers and sisters after my own heart - we wrote this guide to exploring the Detroit Mountains' history, biodiversity, trails, and special outdoor challenges especially for you. We hope this article enriches all of your appreciation for this geological marvel located right here in our backyards. Happy trails! Want to explore the Detroit region's best trails for yourself but would prefer hiking or running 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!