Leaf Peeping Road Trips Within 2 Hours of Detroit
I’ve always been a huge fan of just taking a drive on the weekend (or weekdays) and exploring. Now that we’re into October (sorry, ROCK-tober) it’s time to set up…
(Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
I’ve always been a huge fan of just taking a drive on the weekend (or weekdays) and exploring. Now that we’re into October (sorry, ROCK-tober) it’s time to set up a leaf peeping road trip. Here’s a couple to consider:
5 Leaf Peeping Road Trips That Are Close To Detroit
Using the two hour rule (if it’s more than 2 hours away, it’s an overnight stay). Here’s five leaf peeping trips to consider this fall:
1. Huron River Drive
- Where: Ann Arbor to Dexter
- Length: 10 miles
- Highlights: This scenic, winding route follows the Huron River, showcasing a tunnel of trees turning bright red, orange, and yellow. Stop at Delhi Metropark or take a detour to Dexter and grab some cider and donuts.
2. Kensington Metropark and Island Lake Recreation Area
- Where: Near Milford
- Length: 15-20 miles
- Highlights: If you’ve never been through Kensington Metropark, take the trip - it’s stunning. Such a wonderful variety of things to do and so beautiful. One of my favorite places in Southeast Michgan. You can also rent a kayak or bike if you want to see the colors up close.
3. Paint Creek Trail Scenic Drive (Rochester to Lake Orion)
- Where: Rochester to Lake Orion
- Length: 10 miles
- Highlights: Okay, this is one I’ve got to try out - had a couple of people recommend it. Follow the route through charming towns, with plenty of spots for cider mills along the way.
4. M-25 Bluewater Highway
- Where: Port Huron to Lexington
- Length: 30 miles
- Highlights: Head up the shoreline of Lake Huron for sweeping views of the lake and bright fall colors. I’ve made this drive with my wife before and it’s just a cool vibe.
5. Waterloo-Pinckney Recreation Area
- Where: Between Chelsea and Pinckney
- Length: 15 miles
- Highlights: This drive cuts through one of Michigan’s largest park systems, featuring dense woodlands and scenic hills. Anyone made this trip? Sounds (and looks like) a very cool place.
Leaf Peeping and Road Trips
It’s so relaxing to get in a car and just cruise this time of year. Love grabbing a cup of coffee and taking Kathi (my lovely wife) on trips to see the leaves turning, stopping in local shops and enjoying the moment.
Like I mentioned at the beginning of this, I grew up with a Dad who loved driving and taking road trips. It’s in my DNA. I still remember being stationed in Groton, Connecticut in the Navy (Naval Submarine School) and getting my first new car - a Chevy Spectrum.
It wasn’t about the car itself, it was the freedom to get off base and explore that area. Saturdays driving to Boston or Providence, up Mt Washington in New Hampshire or all the way to Maine. And the leaves. Wow. I was raised in Southern California, we didn’t have this. Driving my little car through the twisty roads, listening to The Outfield and soaking in all of God’s majesty.
That’s one reason I love to drive around Michigan this time of year. It’s stunning. We’re so fortunate to have a place like this to explore. See you on the roads (and save me some cider).
