Our Favorite Hikes
These are a few of our favorite hikes around Metro-Detroit—places we return to again and again when we want fresh air, great scenery, and a little adventure close to home.
Tilted North's Favorite Hikes
in Metro-Detroit
Metro-Detroit offers more hiking opportunities than many people realize. From wooded trails and river views to scenic urban routes, these are some of our favorite hikes in the region. Whether you’re looking for a quick nature break, a longer weekend adventure, or a scenic walk with friends, these trails offer some of the best hiking experiences in southeast Michigan.
Northern Oakland County
Paint Creek Trail (Rochester & Lake Orion)
A classic “any day is a good day to get outside” trail. Paint Creek is perfect when you want a mellow, scenic outing—easy pacing, a relaxed vibe, and plenty of spots to hop on/off depending on how long you want to go. This is my favorite morning bike ride route or an afternoon dog walk with several great swimming holes for the dogs. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: easy walk, casual jog, biking, family-friendly miles
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area (Choose Your Loop)
The north unit of Bald Mountain is my favorite local trail. It provides a combination of loops, so you can adjust the mileage between 3 and 6.9 miles. It's a great trail system with beautiful woods, streams and lakes and options that vary based on on your mood. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: trail running, mountain biking, woods with a lot of elevation change
Bloomer Park Loop
Don’t let the mileage fool you—Bloomer Park packs a punch. Great “sneaky good” workout with quick elevation changes, wooded stretches, views of the Clinton River and a little history (CCR building and part of old canal system) and that satisfying feeling of doing a real hike even if you’re short on time. Add sections of the Clinton River Trail for an extended adventure. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: short hike with hills, quick nature break
Bloomer Park Loop
Don’t let the mileage fool you—Bloomer Park packs a punch. This trail offers a “sneaky good” workout with quick elevation changes, wooded stretches, and scenic views of the Clinton River. Along the way, you’ll also find a bit of local history. During the Great Depression, the park benefited from public works initiatives under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, including projects completed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Along the trail, hikers may also notice remnants of the historic Clinton Canal system. It’s the kind of trail that gives you the satisfying feeling of a real hike—even if you’re short on time. And if you're looking to extend the adventure, you can easily connect to sections of the Clinton River Trail for additional miles. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: short hike with hills, quick nature break
Detroit Hikes
Belle Isle Loop (Detroit)
If you want “Detroit skyline + river breeze + easy miles,” this is it. Belle Isle is perfect for a low-stress loop that still feels special—especially around golden hour when everything looks like a postcard. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: easy walking/running, views, visitors from out of town
Dequindre Cut Greenway (Detroit)
art trail, part outdoor art gallery. The Dequindre Cut is an easy, iconic Detroit route—perfect for a quick walk, run, or casual roll through the city with serious “only in Detroit” vibes. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: urban walk/run, quick workout, people-watching
Other Hikes
(some a little further of a drive but well worth it)
Crooked Lake Trail (Pinckney Recreation Area)
Want something that feels a little more “up north” without driving forever? Crooked Lake delivers: rolling terrain, wooded sections, and rewarding lake views—plus just enough challenge to feel like a true hike. Also a fun hike in camping area if you are looking for a weekend get-away. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: moderate hike, scenic loop, weekend adventure
Hickory Ridge Trail (Island Lake Recreation Area)
This one hits in every season—woods, meadows, and that satisfying “I got away for a bit” feeling. A great choice when you want a true hiking trail (not just a sidewalk-style path. ​AllTrails link​
Best for: nature reset, steady hike, trail runners
Proud Lake Loop (Marsh + River + Red + Blue Trails)
Proud Lake is the “I want nature and variety” pick. You’ll get boardwalk moments, river views, and forest stretches—lots of little scenes that make you stop and say, “okay… this is pretty great.” ​AllTrails link​
Best for: easy-to-moderate loop, variety, great photos