You don’t have to leave Macomb County to experience the natural beauty of Michigan. In fact, you’ll find several beautiful hiking trails right in the vicinity of Clinton Township, whether you prefer a short trek or a full-day journey.
Tomlinson Arboretum
Located right in Clinton Township, this site has a multi-use path that wanders through 24 acres of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Guests can enjoy the changing landscape over time as these plants go through their annual lifecycle and attract native wildlife species. You can also purchase a memorial tree for a family member at the Tomlinson Arboretum.
Canal Park
This park in Clinton Township spans more than 16 acres on Clinton River Road. Here, you’ll find the trailhead to the Don Green Nature Trail, which allows you to hike the 2.7-mile route to Budd Park. The forested trail features wood-chip terrain and welcomes leashed dogs. When you arrive at Budd, you’ll find another nature trail along with playground equipment, soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, and picnic pavilions with grills.
Six Rivers Land Conservancy
This expansive land trust protects forested land in Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer, St. Clair, and Oakland Counties, including several nature preserves with miles of trails to explore. Some of our favorite spots in this area are in Anchor Bay Woods Preserve, just a short drive from Clinton Township in New Baltimore and one of the newest tracts protected by Six Rivers. Stroll through more than 171 acres of the largest wetland forest in Michigan, home to dozens of threatened and endangered reptile species and hundreds of native birds.
Hikers should also visit East Pond Creek Preserve, about a 30-minute drive from Clinton Township in Bruce Township. This 20-acre wetland location traverses a conifer swamp filled with northern white cedar.
Belle Isle Conservancy
If you don’t mind a drive to Detroit, Belle Isle gives you the chance to explore an honest-to-goodness island without leaving Michigan. On this 982-acre park site, you’ll find miles of nature trails through this unique landscape. You can also take to the paved bike trails or rent a kayak to paddle around the Detroit River and surrounding canals. Well worth a day trip, the island also features historic sites, museums, an aquarium, fishing, tennis, recreational rowing programs, and so much more.
Macomb Orchard Trail
This 24-mile multi-use path uses old rail lines to connect Shelby Township with Richmond and the towns along the way. Eventually, the Michigan rail-to-trail project will connect the Macomb Orchard Trail with more than 180 miles of trails throughout the southeast part of the state. Paved along its entire length, this section passes through grassy valleys offering glimpses of farms, bridges, animals, and other bucolic sights.
This trail is open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset and allows leashed pets only. You’ll find restrooms, picnic pavilions, parking facilities, and other amenities at several points along the way.
Add our five favorite hiking spots to your list of fun springtime activities. You’ll be able to observe nature reawakening after the long, cold winter months.
Image via Pixabay.com
Connect with us
