A trail located in Lower Huron Metropark is seen here on a sunny late-summer day. The Huron-Clinton Metroparks have several trails throughout southeast Michigan, including hiking, biking, equestrian and even water trails that are perfect to enjoy during Michigan Trails Week. (Photo by Scott Bolthouse — The Huron Hub)

Posted by The Huron Hub on Monday, Sept. 23, 2019

Michigan Trails Week is here and the local Metroparks have you covered with unique opportunities to get out and explore.

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks have several trails throughout southeast Michigan, including hiking, biking, equestrian and even water trails that are perfect to enjoy this week.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed September 22 through 29 as Michigan Trails Week to celebrate the outdoor gems across the “Trails State.”

Trails cater to many hobbies and interests and the Metroparks offer some of Michigan’s best-connected paths.

“Many different activities draw people to local trails – walking, hiking, jogging, biking, horseback riding, paddling, roller blading and so much more – and your Metroparks have options no matter your favorite interest,” said Amy McMillan, Director at the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority. “We’re proud to be home to some of Michigan’s most sought-after and recognized trails. Trails Week is a chance to explore and enjoy all that Michigan has to offer.”

Hike-bike, fitness, rustic, equestrian and water trails exist across the Metroparks five-county network in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties, including:

-Kensington Metropark in Milford – Visitors can enjoy the 8.5 mile paved hike-bike trail that traverses the picturesque landscapes that circle Kent Lake. Bonus: This is one of southeast Michigan’s finest autumn color tours when the leaves start to change. There are also seven miles of unpaved nature trails near the Nature Center.
-Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township – There are more than 27 miles of trails to explore. From a 6.2 mile, paved hike-bike path around Stony Creek Lake to Trolley Trails that use portions of the old interurban light rail system to the Black Trail which takes you to the highest point in Macomb County, there is something for everyone.
-Lower Huron Metropark in Belleville – Bikers can enjoy the 4.1 mile hike-bike trail that meanders along scenic views of the Huron River. It even continues south and joins a 23.75 mile trail system that connects to Willow Metropark, Oakwoods Metropark and the City of Flat Rock.
-Dexter-Huron and Delhi Metroparks in Dexter – Visitors can find one of the greatest cycling routes in Michigan. The trail travels along the Huron River and is part of Washtenaw County’s Border to Border (B2B) Trail and Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail, allowing you to stop into Dexter for lunch. About 40 miles of B2B trail already connect many parks to communities in the area, but a total of 70 miles are in the plans.
-Huron Meadows Metropark in Brighton – The Huron River has been designated as the 18th trail of the National Water Trail System, joining a national network of exemplary water trails from Puget Sound to the Hudson River. Those that prefer to do their exploring on land will enjoy the 11 miles of trails that lead hikers through fields and woodlands.

The Metroparks prides itself on connectivity throughout the parks. Some parks are linked together by connected trails, but many also connect into other trail systems in Michigan. Metroparks’ trails are great in any season, and yes that means winter too. For a full list of trails your Metroparks have to offer in southeast Michigan, please visit metroparks.com/activities.

A Metroparks vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark and is only $35 annually for regular admission, $24 annually for seniors or $10 daily.