Orion Oaks Outer Loop

There are three trailheads with parking available at Orion Oaks County Park. These provide convenient access to the trail system, including the Outer Loop.

Yes, a Oakland County Parks and Recreation annual vehicle permit is required for entry to Orion Oaks County Park. You can purchase these at the park office or online.

Yes, the park is very dog-friendly! Orion Oaks is well-known for its 24-acre dog park, which includes its own trails and access to Lake Sixteen for dog swimming. Dogs are generally welcome on the main hiking trails as well, but always ensure they are on a leash and you clean up after them.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Autumn is particularly scenic due to the vibrant fall colors of the diverse tree species. Late autumn, after the leaves have fallen but before heavy snow, can also offer great scenic overlooks. The trails are accessible in winter for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.

The terrain is primarily composed of grass or hard-packed dirt, with some sections featuring rock, roots, and sand. Most of the route has very gentle slopes, but there are slight to moderate elevation changes, especially on parts that might overlap with the Fossil Hill Loop. Boardwalks are present through wetland areas.

Yes, the Orion Oaks Outer Loop is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families. The gentle slopes and well-marked trails provide an accessible and enjoyable experience for a wide range of hikers.

You'll experience a diverse landscape, including a mix of meadows and woods with tall pines. A significant feature is Lake Sixteen, a 90-acre undeveloped lake, which you can view from various points. Expect to see marshland, open fields, and areas with diverse tree species that are beautiful in autumn.

Yes, the route is part of an interconnected trail system within Orion Oaks County Park. It includes sections of the Dragon Loop and the Massasauga Loop, among others, which contribute to its perimeter path.

Beyond the scenic views of Lake Sixteen, the park features areas with mushrooms and chipmunks. There are also scenic overlooks, particularly enjoyable in late autumn. A unique and touching feature is a bench donated in honor of a dog, where hikers often leave notes, fostering a sense of community.

In addition to hiking, the park is popular for mountain biking. During winter, it's used for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. It's also one of the locations in Oakland County where archery hunting for white-tailed deer is permitted during hunting season, so hikers are advised to stay on marked trails during dawn or dusk in those periods.

Yes, the three trailheads at Orion Oaks County Park are equipped with map boxes and vault toilets, providing convenient facilities for visitors before and after their hike.

Hikers often spot chipmunks along the trail. Given the park's diverse habitats, including marshland and wooded areas, you might also encounter various bird species and other small woodland creatures. White-tailed deer are also present in the park.