You don't need an excuse to go for a hike in the Brighton area. With dozens of local parks and trails to choose from, there's always an adventure waiting. But in case you needed a little extra incentive, November 17th is National Hiking Day. In honor of the occasion, our REALTORS® are excited to highlight some favorite hiking destinations in the Brighton, MI area. 

1. Huron Meadows Metropark - 8765 Hammel Rd, Brighton, MI 48116
   The picturesque Huron Meadows Metropark spans more than 1,500 acres along the Huron River. Located minutes away from Brighton homes for sale, this park has become a favorite destination for hiking and biking, with well-groomed paths that meander through lush forests and wide-open meadows. You can explore 11 miles of trails at Huron Meadows Metropark, with easily accessible trailheads just south of Hammel Road at Cedar Ridge picnic area.
   
   
2. Kensington Metropark - 4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48380
   With 4,400 acres of wooded, hilly terrain, Kensington Metropark offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of the park is the 8.5 mile paved hike-bike trail encircles Kent Lake, along with an additional 7 miles of trails in the nature study area. Right around the corner from these Milford homes for sale, Kensington Metropark also shares a border with the 700-acre Kensington Nature Center, which is one of the best bird-watching spots in this part of the state. 
   
   
3. Brighton Recreation Area - 6360 Chilson Rd, Howell, MI 48843
   Rugged hills, peaceful lakes and several miles of trails make Brighton Recreation Area a destination for outdoor recreation of all kinds. The park includes several campgrounds, ample fishing and kayaking access to its many lakes, and trails designated for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In winter, cross-country skiing is also popular. With nearly 40 miles of trails and a location minutes from Howell homes for sale, Brighton Recreation Area is a place you'll want to visit again and again. 
   
   
4. Island Lake State Recreation Area - 6301 Kensington Rd, Brighton, MI 48116
   Nestled among a cluster of picturesque lakes, the 4,000-acre Island Lake State Recreation Area offers a landscape similar to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The Recreation Area offers two peaceful walking and biking trails that wind in and out of mature hardwood forests and brushy meadows, along with great canoeing waters and numerous campsites. Be sure to keep one eye toward the sky as you explore the landscape. Island Lake State Recreation Area features the only hot air balloon port in the state park system where you can see colorful balloons taking off.
   
   
5. Highland Recreation Area - 5200 Highland Rd, White Lake, MI 48383
   Highland Recreation Area is one of the largest parks in this part of the state, encompassing 5,900 acres. You're likely to spot hawks, whitetail deer and many other animals. With 12 miles of hiking trails and 17 miles of mountain biking trails, there's plenty of exploring awaiting you. Highland Recreation Area has all of southern Michigan's principal forest types in a concentrated area. This area ranges from swampy tamarack forest to oak-hickory forest and cedar woods.

From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and kayaking, Brighton is an incredible place for anyone with a passion for the outdoors. Contact us to learn about life in the Brighton area, and talk to our team about finding your dream home in Eastern Michigan.