Canton, Michigan offers an abundance of outdoor experiences for the explorer in us all. From the Morton-Taylor Trailhead to the Fellows Creek Wetland to the ITC Corridor Trail, there are various outdoor activities including biking, hiking, and bird watching with diverse sights to explore. Whether strolling on wooded landscapes or cycling through trails, visitors will find plenty of places to reach out into nature and relax.
Morton-Taylor Trailhead
Visitors to Canton can explore the beautiful nature trails and preserves in Southeast Michigan, offering activities such as hiking, cycling, and more. One of the most popular is the Morton-Taylor Trailhead, located at Michigan Avenue and Morton Taylor Rd in Canton. It provides over 3 miles of crushed gravel paths and 5 miles of single-track paths for hiking and biking, arranged in loops with interconnecting paths, plus optional challenges for those looking for a workout. Wooden bridges link paths on opposite sides of the Lower Rouge loop, which runs near the river of the same name. This scenic, slightly hilly trail is easy to hike but full of natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature Trail
Explore the Natural World at the Fellows Creek Wetland’s Nature Trail
– 1,620-foot-long unpaved loop
– Incredible views of shore birds and muskrats
– Enjoyable hike or bike ride
– Conveniently located at 42712 Lilley Pointe Dr in Canton
The Fellows Creek Wetland is a wonderfully vibrant ecosystem that was built to restore the water-filtering properties and habitat for wild plants and animals that were previously disrupted by construction and agriculture. Now, it is teeming with fascinating wildlife and is successfully improving the water quality downstream. In addition, visitors can take advantage of the nature trail at the wetland to explore the natural world or simply enjoy an enjoyable hike or bike ride. The single unpaved loop is 1,620 feet long and offers incredible views of shore birds and muskrats. For those wishing to visit, parking is conveniently located at 42712 Lilley Pointe Dr in Canton.
Other Trails to Explore Near Canton
ITC Corridor Trail
The ITC Corridor Trail is an impressive 4.66-mile-long route running the entire north-to-south length of Novi. Not only is it a great recreational and exercise opportunity, but it also encourages safe and efficient commuting without motorized vehicles. Maps and markers make it easy for people to plan and execute 1-mile walks, 5k runs, or 10k bike rides along the trail. In addition, parking is conveniently available at either end of the trail–near Ascension Providence Hospital campus or ITC Community Sports Park. Plans are in development to expand the trail and build additional routes connecting various municipal campuses and parks.
Volunteers Keep Holliday Nature Preserve Pristine
The Holliday Nature Preserve is something to be proud of, as it is the only one on this list to be entirely maintained by community volunteers. The Holliday Nature Preserve Association (HNPA) is a dedicated all-volunteer organization that has worked hard to resist efforts to replace the preserve with golf courses and other developments, ensuring that its 10 miles of pedestrian hiking trails remain a pristine area of natural beauty for all to enjoy. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the trails and attend monthly community events hosted by the HNPA. The association also welcomes additional volunteer help to keep the trails, fields, forests, and streams clean and healthy.
For those wanting to visit the preserve, the best place to park is at 6935 N. Hix Rd in Westland.
Unspoiled Beauty of Miller Woods
Miller Woods is an awe-inspiring 10-acre plot of land, gifted to us by the legacy of Norman and Cornelia Miller. This untouched piece of Southeast Michigan’s natural history is home to many large stands of hardwood trees, such as American beech and sugar maples, along with numerous shade-tolerant species of plants – some of which are now endangered. The 1/3-mile-long unpaved trail loop offers visitors a chance to admire this unspoiled piece of living history, while also providing a safe haven for local wildlife. With its striking beauty in all seasons, Miller Woods is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.
To make the experience even easier, ample parking for visitors to Miller Woods can be found along Powell Rd, east of Ridge Rd, in Plymouth.
Lower Rouge River Recreation Trail
The Lower Rouge River Recreation Trail is a stunning 4-mile path that follows the Rouge River through Canton. Lined with crushed stone paths and boasting beautiful views, this trail is a nature lover’s paradise. There are eight pedestrian bridges that cross the river at various points for added convenience. Wildlife enthusiasts can appreciate the abundant birds, insects, and butterflies which inhabit the area. At the eastern end of the trail lies the 33-mile-long I-275 trail, connecting the two trails seamlessly. Mill Trail, a 1/2-mile paved trail with mulched side paths in Wayne, provides an enjoyable experience for those looking for a shorter walk, jog, run, or bike. The wooded area is inviting and serene, making it a popular spot among locals.
Parking can easily be found near the park entrance, which is on 2nd Street near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and US-12. With its many attractions, Lower Rouge River Recreation Trail is an ideal destination for families looking for a quick and easy outdoor activity.
Canton isn’t short of amazing trails to explore, and visitors will be continually impressed by the wide variety of outdoor activities available. From hiking along the Morton-Taylor Trailhead to biking or running along ITC Corridor Trail, Southeast Michigan holds a vast selection of natural activities for tourists who want to experience it all. Nature preserves like Fellows Creek Wetland feature picture-perfect views and diverse wildlife to admire. Whether you are looking for an easy stroll, an outdoor challenge, or just a connection with nature, Canton has fully embraced its awe-inspiring outdoor attractions.
