HAPPY TRAILS, Y’ALL
High praise from publication for Stony Creek’s leafy pathways, cozy corners
One publication has deemed Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township the top hiking trail in southeast Michigan.
A recent article on onlyinyourstate.com listed nine locations as premier places to get active in southeast Michigan. Macomb County-based sites claimed three spots on the list, with features on Stony Creek, the Macomb Orchard Trail and River Bends Mountain Bike Trail.
The author rated Stony Creek as the best hiking spot with the following description:
“This isn’t so much an individual trail as it is a collection of trails within one gorgeous park. Stony Creek boasts a whopping 27 miles of trails throughout its system, each offering its own unique scenery and terrain. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, searching for beautiful birds, or immersing yourself in forested wonder, a visit to Stony Creek Metropark will make you feel like you’ve entered a new world.”
“We’re fortunate in southeast Michigan, and in particular here in MacombC ounty, because the natural resources we have for recreation and quality of life far surpass any other state,” Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said. “Recreation is abundant, from Lake St. Clair to our trails and our parks, we have incredible resources.”
River Bends Park Mountain Bike Trail in Shelby Township checked in at No. 3 on the list.
This is what the author had to say about River Bends:
“This four-mile loop trail is abundant with greenery during the warmer months and equally as magnificent when you stopby in the fall or winter. With everything from wooden stairways to lovely treetop coverage, there’s a sense of natural wonder here that will keep you returning time and time again - whether you’re on amountain bike or on foot.”
The Macomb Orchard Trail was No. 6 on the list with this description: “This 23-mile trail is nothing short of amazing, offering plenty of wide-open space for those who need to stretch their legs or spend time
appreciating the great outdoors. Whether you’re jogging, walking, or rollerblading with pals, this incredible trail near the Motor City will capture your heart. Its paved pathway and variety of habitats make it a wonderful option for those who wish to explore Metro Detroit on foot.”
The nearby Paint Creek Trail in Oakland County was ranked seventh. Other locations on the list included: No. 2 Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor; No. 4 Blue Heron Lagoon Trail in Detroit; No. 5 Crosswinds Marsh in New Boston; No. 8 the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in Detroit; and No. 9, the Dequindre Cut in Detroit.
Individuals interested in hiking in Macomb County can visit macombgov.org/ trails for details and information on the local trail network.