Whether you're going out on a fishing trip, discovering new hiking spots, or heading out for a weekend of camping, the Trailblazer is an ideal companion for your active lifestyle.
Winter has come and gone, and spring is in full swing! If you’re like me, you might have put on a few extra pounds this winter to, ahem, “keep warm.” And if you’re really like me you’re going to want to lose those extra pounds before you hit the pool this summer. If you’re really, really like me, the gym just isn’t your thing. Fear not! There are some great ways to get into shape outdoors right here in metro Detroit!
Proud Lake State Park
Beginning May 2 and running through September 25, Huron Valley Recreation and Community Education will be offering several outdoor classes at Proud Lake State Park as part of the Department of Natural Resources MI Big Green Gym Program. Classes include Karate for Families, Karate for Kids, INSANITY, Fitness Trail Hiking, Sunset Yoga, Kickboxing and Group Mountain Biking. For all dates and times, visit the link above.
Belle Isle Athletic Complex
On Belle Isle in Detroit, there are athletic fields available for rent by the hour or for a full day. This includes softball, football and soccer fields and basketball, tennis and racquetball courts. Rates vary depending on the field/court. For a list of prices, visit the link above.
Since Belle Isle is a State Park, a Recreation Passport is required for entry onto the island. A Recreation Passport can be purchased at the Belle Isle entrance, through the Secretary of State or online when you renew your license.
Detroit RiverFront Fitness
Ever wanted to do yoga or T’ai Chi on the Detroit RiverFront? Thanks to a partnership between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy, you can — for free! Weekly yoga and T’ai Chi classes are held every Friday at 10 a.m. and every Thursday at 6 p.m., June 2 – August 25.
The RiverFront is also home to an outdoor fitness park. Stationary equipment can be found along the Dequindre Cut. Boot camps from instructor Teen Cathy will be offered for free Tuesdays at 6 p.m. beginning in May.
Dequindre Cut Greenway
A two-mile paved path makes up the Dequindre Cut Greenway in downtown Detroit. This path even has separate lanes for cyclists and three entrance ramps located at Lafayette Street, Gratiot Avenue and Woodbridge Street. Dequindre Cut has a long history dating back to the 1920s. In the 80s passenger and freight service was discontinued and it wasn’t until 2009 that the trail was reopened. The graffiti that came up as a result of the trail’s abandonment in the 80s is still there today.
Hines Park Trail
The Hines Park Trail is a 20-mile stretch that runs through several suburbs of Detroit, like Northville, Plymouth, Livonia, Westland, Garden City and Dearborn. Along its path, which is perfect for bike riding, are several play parks, dog parks, baseball fields, picnic areas and more. Plus, if you make it to Plymouth on this trail you will find a connection to the I-275 Metro Trail, a 30-mile trail that runs north-south.
