Metro Detroit Outdoors & Hiking (Sierra Club S.E. Michigan)

#OptOutside on Black Friday and burn off those Thanksgiving calories with a refreshing 4.5-mile hike at Proud Lake Recreation Area on November 29th! Nestled along the banks of the Huron River, this park features woodlands, wetlands, and riverbanks, offering diverse natural beauty and a serene environment. The trail presents a mix of gentle hills and flat terrain, making it an enjoyable challenge for both novice and experienced hikers.

The Huron River is the park’s central feature, flowing for over 130 miles from its headwaters in the Huron Swamp to its endpoint in Lake Erie. As you hike, you’ll follow sections of the river, which provide not only a peaceful ambiance but also a rich habitat for local wildlife. Proud Lake’s connection to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal-era program from the 1930s, is evident throughout the park. The CCC was instrumental in developing trails, campsites, cabins, pine plantations, and picnic areas that remain integral parts of the recreation area today.
Dress warmly in layers, as late November temperatures can be chilly, and consider packing a snack and water for a break along the way. Outhouses are located along the hiking trail.

The hike’s leader is Ken Jacobsen. Please message the group with any questions. We will meet at 9:00 AM at the trailhead parking area off the main entrance on Wixom Road, beyond the park headquarters. Look for Sierra Club signs. All participants can register online at link below, or a signup sheet and waivers will be available at the event. Registering online or in person and completing a waiver is required to participate in the outing.