Ferndale MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ferndale, Michigan.
1. Bicentennial Park Pathway
URBAN GREENWAY WALK
Bicentennial Park Pathway offers a scenic and accessible hike just south of Ferndale in Southfield. The trail winds through lush parkland, providing an easy walking route ideal for families and casual hikers. Its well-maintained paths and proximity to local playgrounds make it a popular urban retreat.
2. Black Creek Nature Trail
WOODLAND ESCAPE NEARBY
Black Creek Nature Trail invites hikers into a peaceful natural area highlighting the creek, woodland, and wildlife. With boardwalks and dirt paths that meander through native habitats, this trail provides opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. Its relatively short length makes it ideal for those seeking a short, restorative hike close to Ferndale.
3. Chevy Commons Trail
URBAN REVITALIZED TRAIL
Chevy Commons Trail transforms former industrial land into a vibrant green space for recreation. The trail features paved walkways, interpretive signs, and open vistas along the Flint River. It's a symbol of community renewal and offers an easy, accessible hike for visitors of all ages.
4. Clinton River Park Trail - Macomb Orchard Trail
RIVERFRONT NATURE HIKE
Clinton River Park Trail, with its Macomb Orchard Trail connection, follows the scenic Clinton River through wooded areas and suburban parks. The trail accommodates both hikers and bikers, offering a flat and paved surface that's ideal for extended outings. Its river views and shaded stretches appeal to nature lovers seeking a tranquil experience.
5. Huroc Park Loop
RIVERSIDE PARK TRAIL
Huroc Park Loop is a shady, riverside trail that circles a scenic island park on the Huron River. The pathway is well-shaded by mature trees and is popular for walking, jogging, and wildlife spotting. It serves as a gateway to longer hikes connecting to regional trail systems.
6. Detroit International Wildlife Refuge Trail
WILDLIFE VIEWING HAVEN
Detroit International Wildlife Refuge Trail offers a unique chance to explore wetlands, woodlands, and shoreline habitats near Detroit. This carefully managed refuge is home to migratory birds and diverse wildlife, making it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The flat, accessible paths make it suitable for all hiking abilities.
7. I-275 Metro Trail
LONG-DISTANCE GREENWAY
I-275 Metro Trail spans miles of multi-use pathway connecting multiple communities and parks in the Detroit metro area. This trail is popular for long-distance cyclists and hikers, offering a mix of urban and semi-rural scenery. Shaded sections and frequent access points provide flexibility for users of varying skill levels.
8. Willow Metropark Trail
SCENIC POND & WOODLAND
Willow Metropark Trail provides hikers with a peaceful setting among mature woodlands and along the Huron River. The trail navigates varied terrain, passing the picturesque Washago Pond and several picnic areas. Its extensive acreage and maintained paths offer a great escape just a short drive from Ferndale.
9. Bluffs Nature Trail
NATURAL BLUFF VIEWS
Bluffs Nature Trail showcases Ann Arbor's scenic bluffs and mature forests, with winding paths overlooking the Huron River valley. The terrain includes moderate elevation changes, making it a good choice for hikers seeking a bit of challenge. Wildflowers, wildlife, and panoramic views define this popular local trail.
10. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
ALL-SEASON WOODLAND TRAIL
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail, located within the Proud Lake Recreation Area, invites visitors year-round with options for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The trail weaves through rolling hills, forest, and wetlands, providing solitude and rich biodiversity. Well-marked loops allow hikers to customize the length and difficulty of their outing.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
ICONIC STATEWIDE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses a collection of top-rated trails favored by outdoor enthusiasts across the entire state. From rugged paths in the Upper Peninsula to scenic riverside routes and forested adventures in state parks, Michigan's hiking offerings cover every landscape. Hikers will find options for every skill level, with breathtaking scenery and year-round opportunities.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL & BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights some of the finest beach and bluff trails along the Great Lakes, including national lakeshores and state parks. Walkers and hikers are treated to expansive sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil lake vistas as they explore the state's extensive coastline. These trails are ideal for those seeking gentle terrain combined with spectacular waterfront scenery.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems refers to less-trafficked trails in both peninsulas where hikers can enjoy solitude and observe native wildlife. These hidden spots range from quiet forest paths and remote wetlands to rolling meadows far from crowds. They are perfect for explorers who value nature immersion and peaceful settings.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ADVENTURES
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the vivid transformation of forested trails across the state into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. Hikers flock to both peninsulas to enjoy crisp air and breathtaking fall colors in well-known parks and off-the-beaten-path routes. The season offers some of the most memorable hiking experiences in Michigan.
15. Ottawa National Forest
PRISTINE NORTHERN FOREST
Ottawa National Forest spans nearly a million acres in the western Upper Peninsula, offering extensive hiking through majestic forests, waterfalls, and wilderness lakes. Visitors encounter a network of both established and backcountry trails providing options for short nature walks or multi-day adventures. The forest is renowned for its tranquility, wildlife, and unspoiled natural beauty.