Village of Grosse Pointe Shores MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan.
1. Ford House Grounds Trail
HISTORIC ESTATE WALK
The Ford House Grounds Trail in Grosse Pointe Shores offers walkers and hikers a chance to explore the historic lakeside estate once home to Edsel and Eleanor Ford. Paved and natural paths weave through beautifully landscaped gardens, woodlands, and shoreline, providing scenic views of Lake St. Clair and glimpses of elegant architecture. This peaceful trail is ideal for those seeking a gentle outdoor stroll and a bit of history close to home.
2. Lake St. Clair Metropark Trails
WATERFRONT PARK HIKING
Lake St. Clair Metropark Trails in Harrison Township offer several miles of multi-use paths along the lake, marshlands, and through forested areas. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, lake breezes, and interpretive signs about the local environment. The park's accessible trails make it a favorite for families and nature lovers just a short drive from Grosse Pointe Shores.
3. Woods Nature Trail
SUBURBAN WOODLAND PATH
Woods Nature Trail in Grosse Pointe Woods provides a quiet, accessible escape within the suburbs, winding through mature forest and open green spaces. This small trail is well-suited for casual hikers or a reflective walk among native trees and local wildlife. Benches and signage along the route offer resting points for visitors to appreciate this natural urban oasis.
4. Stony Creek Metropark Trails
NATURE AND WILDLIFE WALKS
Stony Creek Metropark Trails in Shelby Township feature over 27 miles of trails that meander through rolling hills, woodlands, and along a beautiful reservoir. Hikers can spot deer, birds, and wildflowers while choosing from easy paved loops to more rugged, unpaved routes. The expansive trail system is perfect for both long hikes and short nature strolls year-round.
5. Detroit RiverWalk
URBAN WATERFRONT PATH
The Detroit RiverWalk in Detroit offers a vibrant, paved path stretching several miles along the Detroit River and connecting parks, public art, and popular city attractions. This well-maintained trail is a favorite for walking, jogging, and cycling, with excellent views of Canada and downtown Detroit. The RiverWalk's eastern end is easily accessible from the Grosse Pointe area, making it a convenient urban adventure.
6. Dequindre Cut Greenway
ARTSY URBAN TRAIL
The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a unique urban trail in Detroit featuring colorful graffiti art, landscaping, and a wide, multi-use paved path built on a former railway. The two-mile trail connects Eastern Market and the RiverWalk, providing a lively route through the heart of the city. Walkers and bikers enjoy a blend of city views, creative murals, and an energetic local vibe.
7. Hines Park Trail
RIVERSIDE GREEN CORRIDOR
The Hines Park Trail in Westland follows the Middle Rouge River through a continuous greenbelt that stretches for miles across western Wayne County. Shaded paths, bridges, and picnic areas make this a favorite for long walks, wildlife viewing, and biking close to metropolitan Detroit. The trail's scenic woodlands and riverside views are especially popular for day trips from Grosse Pointe Shores.
8. Paint Creek Trail
RAIL-TRAIL SCENIC ROUTE
Paint Creek Trail, stretching between Rochester and Lake Orion, is Michigan's first rail-to-trail and features 8.9 miles of tree-lined pathways along the scenic Paint Creek. The trail is popular for hiking, running, and cycling, with spots for fishing and birdwatching along the way. Its gentle grade and natural beauty attract visitors of all ages seeking an accessible day hike.
9. Metro Beach Nature Trail
MARSHLAND WILDLIFE LOOP
Metro Beach Nature Trail in Harrison Township leads hikers through restored wetlands and along the edge of Lake St. Clair, offering prime opportunities for birdwatching and spotting turtles. The boardwalks and soft-surface paths make this trail accessible while highlighting native flora and fauna. With interpretive signs and tranquil views, it's a favorite for nature enthusiasts near Grosse Pointe Shores.
10. Belle Isle Nature Trail
ISLAND PARK EXPLORATION
The Belle Isle Nature Trail guides visitors through the 982-acre island park in Detroit, meandering around wooded forests, the lagoon, and wetland habitats. Hikers can observe birds, deer, and wildflowers while enjoying panoramic views of the Detroit skyline. The trail provides a peaceful retreat easily accessed from the Grosse Pointe area.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE TOP TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking covers the premier hiking trails across the state, famed for their diverse landscapes, from sandy dunes and pristine beaches to old-growth forests and dramatic cliffs. Hikers can explore a range of environments, whether seeking challenging summit climbs, tranquil lakeside walks, or shaded woods rich with wildlife. Michigan's top trails promise unforgettable adventures and breathtaking scenery for hikers of every skill level.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
GREAT LAKES COASTAL VIEWS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights some of the best beach and lakeshore hiking along the state's extensive Great Lakes coast. Trails wind through towering sand dunes, along freshwater bluffs, and past hidden coves with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Beach hikes offer a rare blend of sandy footpaths, crashing waves, and opportunities to spot native shorebirds and wildflowers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAILS WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems invite adventure seekers to explore lesser-known and often secluded hiking trails, perfect for those craving solitude and wildlife encounters. These off-the-beaten-path routes lead through quiet forests, remote wetlands, and tranquil preserves teeming with birds and native flora. Ideal for those hoping to escape the crowds and get closer to nature, these hikes reveal the wilder side of Michigan.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WONDERLANDS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best trails for experiencing the spectacular fall colors that blanket the state each year. Hikers can enjoy vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold as they wander through hardwood forests, rolling hills, and lakeside routes. These hikes are especially popular in September and October, providing a quintessential Michigan autumn experience.
15. Ottawa National Forest
NORTHWOODS WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers some of the most rugged and scenic hiking in the Midwest, with over 500,000 acres of dense forests, waterfalls, and rivers. The forest's network of trails ranges from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes, many leading to tranquil lakes or dramatic overlooks. Ottawa National Forest is a must-visit for anyone seeking remote wilderness and natural beauty on a grand scale.