The best walks and hikes around Hamtramck

The Detroit Riverwalk offers a unique urban hiking experience, consistently voted one of the best riverwalks in the country. As you follow the paved path, you'll enjoy dynamic views of the Detroit River, the striking city skyline, and the international backdrop of Windsor, Ontario. The route weaves through various parks like William G. Milliken State Park and past iconic structures such as the Renaissance Center, creating a vibrant and engaging journey.

This accessible trail is a moderate 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route with a minimal 145 feet (44 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for nearly everyone. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 21 minutes exploring its length. While specific parking details vary, the Riverwalk is well-integrated into Detroit's urban fabric, with public transport options and nearby parking available; it's particularly popular during warmer months.

Beyond its scenic appeal, the Detroit Riverwalk is a hub of activity and connectivity. It's a multi-use path that links to other significant trails like the Dequindre Cut Greenway and features family-friendly attractions such as playscapes and a carousel. This trail is a testament to Detroit's revitalization, offering a lively atmosphere for birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying festivals right on the waterfront.

The Mt. Elliot Park Loop offers a delightful, universally accessible escape right in Detroit, providing picturesque views of the Detroit River and Belle Isle. This paved pathway winds through beautifully landscaped parkland, offering a serene urban natural experience. It's an easy 0.3-mile (0.5 km) hike with only 17 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect 8-minute outing for families, strollers, and wheelchairs.

To make the most of your visit, aim for late spring through early fall, from May to October, when the park's flowers are vibrant and the Gilbert Family Schooner Splash Pad is operational. There are no permits or fees required to enjoy the park, and you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and a cafe on site. The loop is also part of the larger Detroit Riverwalk, offering options to extend your stroll.

What truly sets this loop apart is its integration into the vibrant Detroit Riverfront, offering a quick, scenic break with extensive facilities. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, connecting you with the city's waterfront and providing a family-friendly environment. The park's design emphasizes accessibility, ensuring everyone can enjoy the river views and the lively atmosphere around the splash pad.

The Dequindre Cut Greenway offers a truly unique urban hiking experience, transforming a former railroad trench into a vibrant public art space. As you stroll along the paved path, you're immersed in a dynamic outdoor gallery, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning the walls and overpasses. This easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) route, with just 46 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, provides a quiet escape from city noise, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or a quick 1 hour and 24 minute outing.

Accessing the Dequindre Cut is simple, with multiple entry points connecting various Detroit neighborhoods. The trail is fully paved and ADA accessible, featuring separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists, ensuring a comfortable journey for all. With 24/7 surveillance and lighting, it's a safe option for a walk at any time, though a daytime visit allows you to fully appreciate the artwork.

More than just a trail, the Dequindre Cut is a community hub, often hosting events, food trucks, and even a unique shipping container gathering space called The Freight Yard during summer months. It also serves as a crucial link between the Detroit Riverfront and the bustling Eastern Market, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's industrial past while celebrating its artistic present.

Strolling the Detroit Riverwalk offers a refreshing escape with broad, open views of the Detroit River, the city's impressive skyline, and even Windsor, Ontario, just across the water. The paved path is consistently flat, making it an easy 1.9-mile (3.0 km) hike with only 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll pass through beautifully maintained green spaces and parks, like Milliken State Park, providing a pleasant urban oasis.

Planning your visit to the Riverwalk is straightforward, as it's designed for accessibility and convenience. The route is multi-use, welcoming walkers, runners, and cyclists, and is also dog-friendly, provided your furry friend stays on a leash. With an estimated time of just 46 minutes, it's an ideal option for a quick, scenic break, and you'll find various amenities like cafes and restrooms along the way.

Recognized multiple times as the best Riverwalk in the country by USA Today, this trail is a true gem for Detroit. It connects several parks and offers onward connections to other trails, such as the Dequindre Cut Greenway, which leads to the bustling Eastern Market. The Riverwalk is continuously expanding, aiming to provide even more continuous access along the riverfront, making it a dynamic and evolving landmark.

Experience the vibrant pulse of Detroit on this accessible urban loop, offering panoramic views of the Detroit River and the city skyline. This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route, with a mere 65 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, guiding you past the iconic 63-foot lighthouse within William G. Milliken State Park. The paved surfaces make for a smooth journey, perfect for soaking in the blend of urban and natural scenery.

To begin your adventure, head to the Millender Center, which serves as a convenient starting point for this popular Riverwalk segment. The trail is highly accessible, suitable for all ages and abilities, and you'll find amenities like restrooms and seating along the way. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views across the river to Canada and the bustling city life.

This trail is a testament to Detroit's revitalization, transforming a former industrial area into a cherished public space. William G. Milliken State Park, Michigan's first urban state park, integrates green spaces and restored wetlands into the route, showcasing both ecological restoration and urban connectivity. It's a fantastic way to explore the city's waterfront and enjoy a peaceful escape without leaving downtown.