Explore the best rated trails in Southgate, MI. Whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the University/Parks Trail and Clinton River Park Trail. With more than 55 trails covering 456 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
This is one of the original rail trails in Michigan and provides a valuable link in the growing network of trails across metro Detroit. Very scenic, frequently riding past or across many lakes and wildlife viewing is easy along the trail. The trail seamlessly connects to a larger network of trails on either end, allowing for days worth of riding if desired. The trail is always popular and well used.
The biggest complaint is the crushed gravel surface, which while perfectly easy to ride in dry weather can become a muddy mess in the spring and after heavy rain. Unfortunately, too many people attempt to ride the trail while the surface is soft, leaving behind permanent ruts that must be navigated throughout the year. Like all gravel trails, expect your drivetrain to need a good cleaning once your ride is done.
The Air Line trail has quickly become one of my favorite regular rides. The surface is nearly new and very smooth. The entire length of trail is surprisingly scenic considering it navigates a suburban area. The road crossings are well marked with safety lights available. This is a welcome and valuable addition to the growing network of trails in the Detroit metro area.
Even though the Air Line itself is fairly short, it seamlessly connects to a much larger network at both ends, providing access to days of riding if desired.
Very scenic ride and part of the larger Great Lake to Lake trail across Michigan. Many hills that provide a solid workout. Go slow and be cautious of pedestrians and kids near the beaches and picnic areas.
The paved surface has many bumps and could be improved, but not an issue navigating on my hybrid bike tires. I've ridden much worse.
About two-thirds through the park, the dedicated bike trail ends, but easily connects to the park road. There is not much traffic at this end of the park, but use caution when navigating around the hills and curves.
Hard packed gravel trail that is easy to ride and connects Brighton to Island Lake State Park. Easy to miss the east entrance in Island Lake -- be sure to turn before crossing the railroad tracks!
Highly functional trail connecting Island Lake State Park to the Lakelands Trail. Parallels US-23 throughout, so expect noise and not much in the way of scenery. There is a one mile gap at the south end to reach the Lakelands Trail. Fieldcrest Road has minimal traffic and works as a connector, but use extreme caution in this stretch, especially navigating around the highway ramps.
Good hills along this stretch to provide a solid workout.
This trail is a vital connector between Island Lake State Park & Kensington to South Lyon and the Airline Trail in Wixom and beyond. It is part of the growing Lake to Lake Trail across Michigan.
Despite its utilitarian function, it has some nice features in its own right. The trail was resurfaced in 2022 and is a pleasure to ride. The portions between Pontiac Trail and Wixom, and I-96 to South Lyon are scenic and fun to ride. Wildlife is common in these stretches.
Some of the road crossings are busy and dangerous and caution must be taken. These sections would not be advisable for kids. A portion of the trail climbs the former New Hudson landfill, which makes for a great workout and builds those climbing muscles!
I ride this loop trail nearly every week during the warm months. Always plenty to see no matter the season. Wildlife spotting is common throughout, including deer, turkey, cranes, waterfowl and the nesting osprey. Perfect combination of hills and distance to make a good training workout.
Easy connections at both ends to Milford or to Island Lake State Park (part of the Lake to Lake Trail)
Well paved, plenty of space on and plenty of branch off spots on this trail.
I have been riding this trail for years especially the section of it where it enters Sterling State Park. The trail has been deteriorating for years and it has only gotten worse. Very bumpy, cracks, holes, it's not maintained. The area itself is beautiful as it winds thru the marsh. Take your chance with this trail..Be safe.
This trail is a pleasure to walk. Calming scenery. The walk underneath Route 23 is rather neat.Can't wait to walk it in spring.
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