As spring rolls into Michigan, you may be eager to get outside with your family and enjoy your Metroparks by reconnecting with nature. A guided hike is the perfect opportunity to explore the trails while learning something new about the area. If you haven’t taken advantage of the many hikes throughout the 13 parks, now is the perfect time to start!
Why Take a Hike?
Hiking is an activity that everyone can enjoy—young and old, experienced and novice. You can find trails that don’t require any special equipment and are clear during much of the year, making hiking an excellent outdoor option for accessible year-round exercise. If you’ve been considering hikes through some of the 25,000 acres in all 13 Metroparks, don’t overlook the many benefits hiking offers your mind, body, and soul.
Physical Benefits
The National Park Service notes that hiking has numerous benefits for your physical health; you’ll build stronger muscles and bones, improve your sense of balance and heart health, and decrease your risk of respiratory problems. The fresh air, sunshine, and varied landscapes complement your body’s natural systems and counteract the days we spend inside sitting down.
Emotional and Social Benefits
In addition to a full-body workout, a hike will benefit your mental, emotional, and social health. Parents Magazine touts hiking as a great family activity, noting that your mood is naturally boosted by the sunshine, trees, and fresh air. Hiking with your family only multiplies the benefits, and the adventures you take can create memories for years to come. Kids will love burning energy on uneven paths. The skills they need to explore the trails will translate into their everyday lives: preparation, concentration, imagination, observation, navigation, and respect.
What is a Guided Hike?
While hiking is an excellent way to explore the outdoors with your family, a guided hike adds the element of education to your adventure! A guide familiar with the particular area and topic will lead a small group along the hike, pointing out significant sites along the way. With a guide, you know you’re seeing the most interesting plants, animals, and landscape features and staying safe by following a well-researched path. Guides can take your hike from relaxing and beautiful to transformative. You may find a new hobby or favorite spot in our parks just by listening to an expert guide!
Upcoming Metroparks Guided Hikes
Keep up to date on guided hike offerings by checking the event calendar regularly! Registration is required, so some spaces may be full. Check back later to see if spots open for your favorites! Here are a few fun options the whole family will love.
Full Moon Hike
A fantastic family night out for ages 8 and up, this guided Full Moon Hike on April 16 through Kensington Metropark offers a rare opportunity to see the wilderness by moonlight. Your guide will share some myths and legends about April’s full “pink moon” and hopefully help you spot the nocturnal creatures playing in the dark.
Plant Hikes
During April, several options are available for families that want to explore the plants and flowers that are beginning to make an appearance this time of year! A Wildflower Walk on April 23 through Indian Springs Metropark will be a way for the entire family to see the vibrant colors popping up along the Woodland Trail. It’s a long hike, so make sure you prepare children for the sometimes fast pace. You can sign up for the May Day wildflower walk for a shorter version. The Spring Plant Hikes on April 30 is a great way to learn about the flora that pops up along Lake Erie this time of year and tips for how to use and identify various plants. This event is for participants 8+.
Marsh Hike
For an inside look at the remarkable ecosystem of Lake Erie marshes, register for the Evening Marsh Hike on April 30. Participants will learn about this vital habitat and hope to spot some unique creatures along the way! An excellent option for all ages, make sure your kids are ready to stay up late to catch the nocturnal friends awake and active.
Bird Watching
For bird enthusiasts, sign up for the Early Bird Hike on April 30. You’ll head out to Oakwoods Metropark and try to spot some of the spring migratory birds as they head home for the warmer months. For participants ages 12 and up, try the Birding for Beginners guided hike on the same day in Kensington Metropark. You’ll get a short lesson on birding basics, then spend about half an hour testing your new skills on the trail!
Enjoy exploring your Metroparks this spring with these guided hikes—you’ll have fun, reconnect with nature, and learn something, too!
