A Walk on the Wildest Side

Cold misty rain was falling, sections of the trails were slippery, and mosquitos were ferociously feasting on any exposed flesh they could find. Before you get discouraged, it was atypical to encounter so many mosquitos; however, at times they even swarmed the lens of my camera, which allowed for some interesting photos. Certainly not my favorite conditions for hiking and exploring nature’s way, but I trudged on ignoring the fact that I had become an involuntary blood donor. I think the mosquitos were equally pleased that I kept hiking.

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Happy Michigan Trails Week, Oakland County!

Celebrate Michigan Trails Week, Sept. 18-25, on an Oakland County trail. The county and its surrounding areas offer miles and miles of trails for your fitness and enjoyment. Fall is the perfect time to get outside to see the changing colors on the trails. Take a stroll, jog through a park, bike with friends, kick up some dirt at Holly Oaks ORV Park, saddle up on a horse, or paddle down a river. Whether you’re looking to get some vitamin D, exercise, or just want to enjoy some quiet time with nature, there’s no shortage of trails to meet your needs in Oakland County.

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Explore the Interactive Light Show at Glenlore Trails

interactive forest lights

A half-mile hiking trail in Oakland County has been transformed into Glenlore Trails, an interactive light show.

Along the wooded trail located within the Multi Lakes Conservation Association in Commerce Township, this sensory experience is designed for people of all ages to enjoy.

The experience is a blend of programmed and interactive light that includes 10 light installations, projections, and display technology.

The magical place was designed by Bluewater Technologies Group, Inc. of Southfield, a woman-owned company that produces live events and AV experiences for strong brands.

Bluewater designed the experience to be outdoors with no-touch interactions. The Glenlore Trails path is 8-10 feet wide and has 6′ increments marked at check-in lines.

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Easy Hiking at Crooked Lake

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

October is not the time to stay indoors and wish you were outside. In the past few weeks I’ve had inquiries from folks that are new to the world of hiking and want to start the hiking experience on trails that are “easy to hike” while enjoying the splendor of October. Easy can be interpreted in different ways by different people. It’s been ten years this month since I hiked up what was billed as the “easy” side approach of Mount Kilimanjaro. I struggled at times in the thin air, but made it to the 19,340 foot high summit. It was not easy. Let’s forget the word easy for now; if you are looking for a trail that’s family-friendly, embraces nature, and perhaps most importantly, won’t get you lost, I have one for you. It’s a real gem with great lakeshore views, and if you hike on the weekend you will never be alone.
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