2021 brings new goals, resolutions, and motivations. Some of the most popular goals each year are to reengage in a fitness journey, get back into shape, lose weight. People are asking a plan on how to stay fit this winter. While these goals are all achievable, the reality of 2021 and COVID-19 makes them harder to achieve. During the global pandemic, it can be challenging for some to stay active outdoors, especially during the winter months, but it can be done (as long as you’re bundled up).
For those that want to get outside, Detroit is home of greenways, paths and outdoor activities that can be capitalized on this winter. You don’t need a gym membership to get back on track with fitness goals. Embracing the cold, heading out to the Dequindre Cut, River Walk or Belle Isle to get in extra steps and achieve your goals is an ideal way to stay fit this winter in Detroit.
If you’re looking to experience Detroit’s best paths and activities on your own, add these to your to-do list. Bundle up, enjoy the fresh, crisp air and get outside to explore the beauty of Detroit.
BELLE ISLE
Belle Isle gives Detroiters the ability to explore outdoors, offering 982 acres with plenty of room to hike, bike, run, walk, and more. At Belle Isle, you can soak in the rich history and natural beauty of the park while taking steps to achieve your goals and stay fit this winter. Belle Isle is open daily from 5 a.m. – 10 p.m. and is located at 99 Pleasure Drive, Detroit, MI 48207.
DEQUINDRE CUT
Wondering how to stay fit while staying close to home? Hop on the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a two-mile recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, Eastern Market and several residential neighborhoods in between. Discover the urban artwork and graffiti and alongside the greenway that features a 20-foot-wide paved pathway, which includes separate lanes for pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
The path offers a unique perspective of the city of Detroit and is sure to add a compelling outlook to your view of the city and it is exceptional for a daily walking routine, even in the winter. The trail can be accessed from its northern end on the south side of Gratiot west of St. Aubin Street or from the north side of Lafayette. Click here for more info
MOGO
MoGo is a nonprofit bike share system with 620 bikes at 75 stations across 10 neighborhoods in the greater downtown area of Detroit as well as Northwest Detroit, Ferndale, Oak Park, Huntington Woods, Berkley, and Royal Oak. See Detroit in a whole new way and embark on an active adventure this winter. On nice, clear days without any snow to slow you down or slip around, fitness enthusiasts can cycle throughout the city. Learn more on the MoGo website.
RIVER ROUGE PARK
River Rouge Park has 7 miles of paved pathways throughout the park making it the perfect place to reach your fitness goals! The park holds many trails including: Scout Hollow Nature Trail, MCMBA Mountain Bike Trail, Sorensen Trail, Prairie Pathway, and the Joe Prance Nature Trail. River Rouge Park is located at 10248 West Jefferson Avenue River Rouge, MI 48218.
DETROIT RIVERWALK
The Detroit International RiverWalk spans more than three miles, from Rose Parks Blvd. to the Belle Isle Bridge and is great for those wondering how to stay fit this winter. Aside from taking a walk or bike ride on the Detroit Riverwalk, take in the site of new Detroit developments, splash around in several fountains and splash parks for kids, ride the carousel, enjoy nature areas and take in the views of both Detroit and Canada from the Detroit River. The River Walk can be accessed at the GM Plaza and Promenade on the riverfront at the Renaissance Center.
