The best hikes from bus stations around Detroit
4.8
(25)
486
hikers
21
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Detroit traverse a landscape characterized by diverse woodlands, open meadows, and significant riverfront areas. The region features trails along the Detroit River and various lakes, alongside marshlands and areas shaped by glacial topography. Hikers can expect varied terrain, from urban pathways to more natural park settings.
Best bus station hiking trails around Detroit
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Detroit Riverwalk, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail that takes 46 minutes to…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
1
hikers
3.00km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
24
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
3.36km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.75km
01:42
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Detroit
Other adventures around Detroit
Tips from the Community
For decades, the 42-acre Blue Heron Lagoon on the eastern tip of Belle Isle has been separated from the Detroit River by a land bridge, cutting off its wetland and nursery area for river fish and wildlife. Thanks to a grant from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, workers were able to reconnect this habitat with the river, granting access to Great Lakes fish. The project also improved five acres of coastal wetland and nearly an acre of spawning habitat in the Detroit River, complementing an existing spawning bed just offshore of Belle Isle.
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The Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse on Belle Isle was named in honor of William Livingstone of Detroit. Born in 1844, Livingstone was president of the Dime Bank, owner of the "Detroit Evening Journal," and longtime president of the Lake Carriers Association. He was also responsible for several important improvements to navigation on the Great Lakes, including the creation of a deep-water channel in the lower Detroit River, which came to be known as the Livingstone Channel. Following his death in 1925, friends and colleagues from across the city joined together to erect a fitting memorial in Livingstone's memory. Designed by renowned Detroit architect Albert Kahn, the Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse was located at the northern tip of Belle Isle, overlooking Lake St. Clair.
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A 45-acre lake on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. Due to phonetic similarity, it is often misunderstood or misspelled as "Lake Okinawa" (actually an archipelago in Japan).
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Memorial to Major General Alpheus Starkey Williams. It was unveiled in 1921 and depicts the Detroit-born commander on horseback, studying a battlefield map.
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For decades, the 42-acre Blue Heron Lagoon on the eastern tip of Belle Isle has been separated from the Detroit River by a land bridge, cutting off its wetland and nursery area for freshwater fish and wildlife. Thanks to a grant from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, workers were able to reconnect this habitat with the river, granting access to Great Lakes fish. The project also improved five acres of coastal wetland and nearly an acre of spawning habitat in the Detroit River, complementing an existing spawning bank just offshore of Belle Isle.
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A slightly different resting option
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The Renaissance Center, also known as "RenCen" for short, is Detroit's tallest building at 221 m (721 ft). Designed by John C. Portman, Jr., the group consists of five separate towers, with the central one being the most prominent. The four flanking towers are each 159.2 m (521 ft) tall. (Wikipedia)
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The Nashua Canal flows into the lake - very beautiful and informative
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations in Detroit?
This guide features 6 carefully selected hiking routes that are easily reachable via Detroit's public transport system. These trails offer a great way to explore the city's diverse outdoor spaces without needing a car.
What kind of public transport can I use to reach these hiking trails?
The trails highlighted in this guide are accessible using Detroit's public transport, primarily DDOT and SMART bus services. Many popular parks and trailheads are located along established bus routes, making it convenient to start your adventure.
Are there any easy hikes accessible by bus for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Detroit Riverwalk offers a flat, paved path with scenic views. The Dequindre Cut Greenway loop is another excellent easy choice, known for its urban art and gentle terrain. In total, 4 of the routes in this guide are rated as easy.
Which specific bus routes serve popular hiking areas like the Detroit Riverfront?
The Detroit Riverfront, including routes like the Detroit Riverwalk and the Detroit Riverwalk Viewpoint – William G. Milliken State Park loop, is well-served by DDOT and SMART bus routes that run along Jefferson Avenue and other major arteries downtown. It's always best to check the latest DDOT or SMART schedules for the most up-to-date route information to your specific starting point.
Are any of these bus-accessible trails wheelchair friendly?
Yes, several trails in Detroit are known for their accessibility. The Detroit Riverwalk and the Dequindre Cut Greenway are both paved and generally flat, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. These urban pathways offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Are these bus-accessible hiking trails dog-friendly?
Many parks and trails in Detroit are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The Detroit Riverwalk and Dequindre Cut are popular spots for dog walkers. Always check specific park regulations before you go, but generally, leashed dogs are welcome on most public trails in the region.
What can I see along the bus station hiking trails?
You'll find a variety of sights along these trails. The Detroit Riverfront routes offer stunning views of the city skyline, the Detroit River, and Canada, with highlights like the William G. Milliken State Park and the Detroit Riverwalk Viewpoint. The Dequindre Cut is famous for its vibrant murals and urban art installations. You might also encounter historical landmarks like the Gateway to Freedom Monument.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stops?
Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, which is convenient when relying on public transport. Examples include the Detroit Riverwalk Viewpoint – William G. Milliken State Park loop and the Dequindre Cut Greenway loop.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Detroit?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.78 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of these trails via public transport, the unique blend of urban scenery with natural elements, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience. The views along the Detroit Riverwalk are frequently highlighted as a favorite.
Are there places to eat or drink near the bus-accessible trails?
Given the urban nature of many of these trails, especially those along the Detroit Riverfront and the Dequindre Cut, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries within walking distance of bus stops and trailheads. The downtown and riverfront areas offer a wide selection of dining options to refuel after your hike.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails in Detroit?
Spring, summer, and fall are all excellent times to explore Detroit's bus-accessible trails. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, while summer offers vibrant city life and lush greenery. Fall is particularly beautiful with changing foliage. Even in winter, many paved urban trails like the Riverwalk remain accessible for a brisk walk, though conditions can vary.
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