Located on the eastern outskirts of Ann Arbor and just 35 miles west of Detroit, the city of Ypsilanti, MI is not only a great base to explore two of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the state but also to go on offroad adventures and check out the fantastic nature reserves that the region has to offer. Whether you are into hiking, fishing, camping, or wildlife watching, here are three nearby spots where you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities.
1. Hiking at Waterloo State Recreation Area
Encompassing a territory of over 21,000 acres, Waterloo State Recreation Area is the third-largest park in the state of Michigan and a top-rated destination for hikers. This public recreation area boasts over 50 miles of multi-use trails that pass by kettle lakes, moraines, and wetlands. Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, this place is open year-round between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm.
Going from downtown Ypsilanti to Waterloo State Recreation Area takes a little over half an hour by car via route I-94. Once you make your way here, some of the routes you should explore include the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail and the Winnewana Lake Loop. Besides hiking, this state recreation area is a fantastic destination for horseback riding and mountain biking.
2. Fishing at Sterling State Park
Located on the southeastern tip of Michigan and right by the shores of Lake Erie, Sterling State Park is a well-known destination among anglers from Ypsilanti, Detroit, and other nearby cities. Covering about 1,300 acres, this state park was established in 1935 and offers visitors a public beach area, shore fishing lagoons, and boat ramps.
Some of the fish species that can be regularly found at Sterling State Park include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, bluegill, and rainbow trout. This public recreation area is located about 35 miles southeast of the Ypsilanti city center and can be reached in less than 40 minutes by car via routes I-94 and I-275.
3. Camping at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
Located in the northwestern part of Detroit and about 50 miles north of downtown Ypsilanti, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area is another fantastic destination to spend a weekend away from the city. Covering a total area of 3,745 acres, this nature reserve features a large campground with over 175 sites and well-maintained facilities including electric outlets, a dump station, and picnic tables.
With its spacious and comfortable cabin, the 2023 Honda HR-V is the perfect vehicle to go on a road trip and explore these and other wonderful destinations in Michigan and beyond. Visit us at Fischer Honda today, check out this and other models we have available, and ask about our convenient financing options available here at your local car dealership.
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