Explore the best rated trails in Detroit, MI. Whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Clinton River Park Trail and Island Lake Trail Connector . With more than 48 trails covering 401 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
My 13 year old son and I came here today and we loved it. The trail was very well kept and had some good incline on some parts. We did a total of almost 11 miles (to a certain point and turning around) and just loved it. Some parts of the trail are pretty wide which makes it easier for passers. The trail wasn’t too busy either. Beware though. This trail is VERY dusty. My son got dust in his eyes several times and his allergies were kicking his butt. The up side to all the dust on the trail was the satisfaction of rinsing our bikes with the hose afterwards ¿ Great scenic trail! Highly recommend. I will be coming back. J
This pathway is longer than stated. It needs a little work, but it's perfect. You will see many bicyclists along the way. All on different levels. Most are respectful using proper edicate . You will come across wildlife and enjoy this very much.
A very nice trail with enough greenery to feel secluded from urban sprawl. The majority of the trail through Rochester Hills is not “bike friendly”, recycled asphalt does not make for the best riding experience. The trail is manageable for a cyclist with experience riding in many different trail conditions, I would not recommend this trail for a novice cyclist.
This is a very nice wide path that goes I think a little over 2 miles in one direction It has just been resurfaced and is very level. At the starting point near the parking lot is a bathroom and drinking fountains. They also have picnic tables and benches along the path. The only drawback is there’s a spot where at the freeway is very close to the trail and it’s kind of loud.
I started at the Opdyke Trail Head. Headed east and enjoyed the first mile of two through Auburn Hills which was newly paved. Outside of Auburn Hills the trail became crushed asphalt. I rode to Rochester Hills and turned around. I do not like riding on this crap. Also there were several very busy roads to cross.
Headed west from Opdyke. You are riding on sidewalk along busy roads. After about a mile the sidewalk deteriorates and becomes narrow. I turned around.
I never did see the Clinton River.
I will NOT ride this trail again.
Recommended for fat tire bikes and people not interested in a nice trail.
This is one of the original rail trails in Michigan and provides a valuable link in the growing network of trails across metro Detroit. Very scenic, frequently riding past or across many lakes and wildlife viewing is easy along the trail. The trail seamlessly connects to a larger network of trails on either end, allowing for days worth of riding if desired. The trail is always popular and well used.
The biggest complaint is the crushed gravel surface, which while perfectly easy to ride in dry weather can become a muddy mess in the spring and after heavy rain. Unfortunately, too many people attempt to ride the trail while the surface is soft, leaving behind permanent ruts that must be navigated throughout the year. Like all gravel trails, expect your drivetrain to need a good cleaning once your ride is done.
The Air Line trail has quickly become one of my favorite regular rides. The surface is nearly new and very smooth. The entire length of trail is surprisingly scenic considering it navigates a suburban area. The road crossings are well marked with safety lights available. This is a welcome and valuable addition to the growing network of trails in the Detroit metro area.
Even though the Air Line itself is fairly short, it seamlessly connects to a much larger network at both ends, providing access to days of riding if desired.
I ride this trail often and find it is very well used throughout its length. Diverse scenery through wetlands, farms and small towns. The surface varies from smooth asphalt to bumpy asphalt to hard pack gravel, but is no problem with a hybrid bike. Common to share the trail with horseback riders -- please follow the well posted instructions on how to safely approach a horse.
The eastern trailhead easily connects to the trail along US-23 and further on to the Island Lake trail and the trails through the Detroit suburbs. Just be careful navigating the freeway exits at US-23 and M-36. I've ridden as far as Stockbridge and looking forward to the planned extensions farther west.
Very scenic ride and part of the larger Great Lake to Lake trail across Michigan. Many hills that provide a solid workout. Go slow and be cautious of pedestrians and kids near the beaches and picnic areas.
The paved surface has many bumps and could be improved, but not an issue navigating on my hybrid bike tires. I've ridden much worse.
About two-thirds through the park, the dedicated bike trail ends, but easily connects to the park road. There is not much traffic at this end of the park, but use caution when navigating around the hills and curves.
Hard packed gravel trail that is easy to ride and connects Brighton to Island Lake State Park. Easy to miss the east entrance in Island Lake -- be sure to turn before crossing the railroad tracks!
Highly functional trail connecting Island Lake State Park to the Lakelands Trail. Parallels US-23 throughout, so expect noise and not much in the way of scenery. There is a one mile gap at the south end to reach the Lakelands Trail. Fieldcrest Road has minimal traffic and works as a connector, but use extreme caution in this stretch, especially navigating around the highway ramps.
Good hills along this stretch to provide a solid workout.
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