The best walks and hikes in Macomb County

Yes, there are over 25 curated hiking routes to explore in Macomb County. The trails range from easy, paved paths suitable for all skill levels to more moderate unpaved routes through woodlands and along riverbanks.

The trails here are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths and the variety of scenery, from the lakeside views at Stony Creek Metropark to the peaceful riverside habitats along the Clinton River.

Many parks in Macomb County welcome leashed dogs on their trails. A good option is the 26 Mile Road Nature Preserve, which is known for being a pleasant place to walk with dogs. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.

The Macomb Orchard Trail is the region's premier paved path, stretching 23.5 miles across the county. For a shorter, paved loop, the Gazebo at Winter Cove – Boat Dock at Stony Creek Lake loop from Waverly Woods offers excellent views around the lake.

For a family-friendly outing, consider the Rocky Lakeshore – Villas Along the Canal loop from Seminole Hills. It's an easy and relatively short walk. Wolcott Mill Metropark is also a great choice, as you can combine a rustic trail walk with a visit to the historic mill and working farm.

The Macomb Orchard Trail is the main long-distance path, offering 23.5 miles of continuous trail. It also connects to the Clinton River Trail and Paint Creek Trail, allowing you to create an even longer journey through the region.

Stony Creek Metropark is a fantastic destination for birdwatchers, with its diverse habitats of wetlands, forests, and prairies attracting a wide variety of species, including a re-emerging osprey population. The trails around Stony Creek Lake provide many opportunities for spotting waterfowl.

Yes, winter hiking is a popular activity. The paved trails, like the Macomb Orchard Trail, are often cleared, making them accessible. The unpaved trails in parks like Stony Creek and River Bends offer a more rugged winter experience, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear for snow or ice.

While most trails are easy to moderate, you can find more challenging terrain in River Bends Park, particularly in the Shadbush Tract, which features more rugged paths and varied elevation. For a longer moderate hike, consider the Stony Creek loop from Washington Charter Township, which covers over 5 miles with some rolling hills.

Stony Creek Metropark is much larger and centers around a 500-acre lake, offering a 'north woods' feel with rolling glacial hills and extensive paved and unpaved trail systems. Wolcott Mill Metropark offers a more rustic and historical experience, with trails that follow the Clinton River through forests and fields, leading to a historic grist mill and a working farm.

Shelby Township is home to two major parks for hiking. River Bends Park offers rugged, unpaved trails along the Clinton River. For a different experience, Stony Creek Metropark provides a vast network of trails, including the popular River Bends Park – Clinton River Trail loop from Shelby Woods Lake & Estates which connects areas of both parks.

For a more secluded hike, try the trails at Nicholson Nature Center in Clinton Township. It's a smaller nature area that locals describe as a 'hidden piece of nature in the city,' perfect for a quiet walk among wildflowers in the spring.