The beauty of Michigan’s four seasons is found within fall foliage around the state. Although summer may be over, fall is one of the best times to enjoy the weather in Michigan. Throughout October and November, the state is painted with vibrant fall colors, causing Michiganders to “ooo and ahh” daily.
2020 is about taking a step back and enjoying the small things you may have taken for granted before. Take the extra time you have on your hands these days to enjoy the beauty that surrounds you and find a new appreciation for the breathtaking views at your fingertips.
Take advantage of the local parks Metro-Detroit has to offer and experience fall at its peak. Fall foliage is a masterpiece filled with peace, illustrious views, and the opportunity for a fresh new start and season.
Here are the best parks and trails near Detroit that will give you nothing but beautiful colors and views to take in:
PHOTO EVGENI EVGENIEV / UNSPLASH
ADDISON OAKS PARK
Addison Oaks is a 1,140-acre natural oasis close to home where visitors can recreate for the day and explore the park’s rich history. With an assortment of activities offered, including a 20+ mile trail system for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking it could not be a better adventure to embark on and enjoy fresh air and vibrant fall colors throughout the trails. Located at 1480 West Romeo Road, Leonard, MI 48367.
BELLE ISLE PARK
Perfect for a Sunday drive, you can drive, full-circle, around the isle. If the weather is nice, hop on your bike to experience a crisp autumn breeze or pack a picnic to enjoy along the river to enjoy the trees throughout that display an array of autumn colors. Belle Isle Park is located at 99 Pleasure Drive Detroit MI, 48207.
BRIGHTON RECREATION AREA
PHOTO AARON BURDEN / UNSPLASH
19 miles of trails wind throughout 4,946 acres that make up the picturesque Brighton Recreation Area. The park provides a combination of high, irregular ranges of hills, interspersed with a number of attractive lakes. The area has several miles of trails available for equestrian riding, mountain biking, and hiking. So many different ways to enjoy the fall foliage! Located at 6360 Chilson Rd, Howell, MI 48843.
DELHI METRO PARK
Located near Ann Arbor, the park is nestled against the Huron River, serving as a popular fishing and canoeing destination in Michigan, perfect for a warm fall day. The fresh air flowing through the 53 acres of mature oak trees and grassy lawns enables a perfect day-cation spot in the fall. Located at 3902 E. Delhi Ann Arbor, MI 48103.
HIGHLAND RECREATION AREA
5,900 acres of forest, marshes and lakes in the rolling hills in White Lake. There are miles of trails to accommodate equestrian riders, mountain bikers and hikers in the fall and areas to enjoy picnics, play horseshoe or volleyball. Woven throughout Highland Recreation Area, you will find four lakes that make you feel as if you are in Northern Michigan enjoying the vibrant colors. Located at 5200 Highland Road, White Lake, MI 48383.
KENSINGTON METRO PARK
One of the most popular parks in Michigan! You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the best of Michigan’s great outdoors, with Kensington Metropark. With 4,481 sprawling acres of wooded, hilly terrain that surrounds beautiful Kent Lake, Kensington Metro Park evokes the best fall vibes in Michigan. If you’re looking to sneak in a few rounds of golf before the cold weather officially arrives, the area also features an 18-hole golf course. Located at 4570 Huron River Parkway Milford, MI 48380.
PHOTO NICHOLS ARBORETUM
NICHOLS ARBORETUM
Nichols Arboretum is a well known spot on the beloved University of Michigan campus. Known as “The Arb” this spot is filled with trails, trees, gardens, ponds and streams. The perfect spot for any photographer on a journey to capture breathtaking illustrations painted by the trees. Trek through the trails on a hike, wind through on your bike or give yourself a moment of tranquility, stopping to sit and enjoy the fresh air, quiet environment and views. Located at 1610 Washington Hts. Ann Arbor, MI 48104.
PAINT CREEK TRAIL
This 8.9-mile trail alongside the Paint Creek River ranges from Rochester to Lake Orion ad sees thousands of walkers and bikers each year. The incredible views and feeling of being one with nature allows visitors full access to fall color palettes along the entire Paint Creek Trail. Located at 4480 Orion Road,
Rochester, MI 48306.
STONEY CREEK METRO PARK
This is the prime spot to catch the leaves changing color, enjoy peak fall foliage, and take advantage of socially-distant activities this fall. Stoney Creek Metro Park is surrounded by a 550-acre lake and totals 4,461 acres land throughout Oakland and Macomb counties. It’s yet another perfect spot to capture the “up north” feeling without making the trip. Located at 4300 Main Park Road
Shelby Township, MI 48316.
For more fall activities in Metro Detroit click here!
