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Detroit's Parks and Trails Offer Hiking, Kayaking, Island Escapes

Detroit offers access to island parks, state parks, metro trails and riverfront paths for hiking, kayaking and other recreation.

By Detroit Things-to-do Desk · Published July 18, 2026

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This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Detroit is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

Detroit's Parks and Trails Offer Hiking, Kayaking, Island Escapes — Photo by jikatu / flickr (by-sa)

Belle Isle Park provides a starting point for outdoor activities in Detroit. The 982-acre island park supports hiking, kayaking, biking, swimming and a zoo.

Belle Isle Park

Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island park in Detroit. It offers hiking, kayaking, biking, swimming and a zoo. The park is described as the largest city-owned island park in the U.S.

Seven Lakes State Park

Seven Lakes State Park lies in northwestern Oakland County. It covers 1,400 acres of rolling hills, woods and connected lakes suited for outdoor recreation.

Metro Parks Trails

Stoney Creek Metro Park and Kensington Metro Park supply trails for hiking, biking and running. Stoney Creek Metro Park includes a 6.25-mile loop trail.

Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy maintains scenic walking trails along the waterfront. These paths feature wetland preserves and views of the city skyline.

Water Activities on Local Rivers

Kayaking and canoeing take place on the Huron River and Detroit River. Additional options exist on rivers such as the Rifle and Au Sable, located 2-3 hours north of Detroit. These waterways support paddling trips of varying lengths.

The listed parks and trails supply concrete locations for residents seeking time outdoors. Access points at Belle Isle Park, Seven Lakes State Park, Stoney Creek Metro Park, Kensington Metro Park and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy allow direct entry to the described activities. Kayak and canoe launches on the Huron River and Detroit River extend options for water-based outings without requiring long travel.

Information on these sites comes from local recreation listings and park descriptions. Visitors can check current conditions through official park channels before heading out. Maps and trail details for the 6.25-mile loop at Stoney Creek Metro Park and the connected lakes at Seven Lakes State Park are available through the managing agencies.

References Sourced but Not Limited to:

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