Kensington Metropark offers many recreational activities throughout the year, from biking and boating in the summer to cross-country skiing and tobogganing in the winter.
Golfers can test their skills on the first Huron–Clinton Metroparks golf course to grace wooded hilly terrain. Walk the trails and admire fine horticulture while chubby squirrels and chatty birds abound. For more information about Kensington-Park, click here.
The Beaches
The four-season Metropark is painted with rolling hills, wooded hiking trails and the Kensington waterpark “Splash’ n Blast.” You can swim in the lakes or on sandy beaches, enjoy a leisurely cruise on Kent Lake aboard the Island Queen, hit the tees for a round of golf, or snowshoe through the woods.
You can even bring your dog (though they must be on a leash). As you stroll along trails canopied by luscious trees, chatty squirrels and chubby chipmunks seem underfoot and are happy for a crunchy treat. Kids will love the Martindale and Maple Beaches on the shores of Kent Lake, where they can splash around or hang out at the Splash Pad with two 240-foot slides. There’s also a playground, picnic area and paddleboats, kayaks, rowboats and canoes for rent. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try ice fishing on Kent Lake during winter.
The Nature Center
A visit to Kensington Metropark is incomplete without a trip to the Nature Center, where you’ll find interactive exhibits, wildlife displays and miles of walking/biking trails. It is a beautiful place to take the kids to learn through experience!
In the winter, bring a handful of sunflower seeds or shelled peanuts to feed the birds. They are accustomed to being hand-fed and often approach you in the park for their next snack. It is a beautiful way to observe the birds and enjoy their antics.
Visit the Farm Center in spring to see baby animals born that season. You can also explore the stone labyrinth and grass maze and stop by the blacksmith shop for a demonstration of historic farming techniques.
The Hills
When the snow flies, Kensington Metropark offers four hills for sledding, from beginner to advanced. The bunny hill is designed for toddlers and includes padded trees, while the beginner and advanced slopes provide steep paths that are long and straight.
As you make your way down a dirt trail canopied by luscious trees, watch for chatty squirrels and chubby chipmunks. They are used to visitors and can’t resist a nut or two.
The Trails
Kensington Metropark’s 4,481 sprawling acres are painted with wooded, hilly terrain surrounding Kent Lake and home to abundant wildlife. Visitors are welcome year-round for recreational activities, from sun-drenched fun to cross-country skiing and ice fishing. For more information about Kensington-Park, click here.
Hike the paved trail system that winds through the park for an afternoon of exploration or a quick workout. Various routes lead around the park, offering hikers views of the lakes and forest. The Wildwing Trail alternatively weaves through thick woodland and marshy landscapes.
A bicycle is another way to take in the scenery at Kensington Park, as it is a popular biking destination for riders from all over metro Detroit. Those not interested in hiking can hop on one of the three bike-only trails that feed into the paved route.
Animal lovers are welcome at the Kensington Nature Center, where they can view live animals (that include pigs, sheep, goats, and more) and attend kids’ classes. Kids can also hop on the Island Queen for a charming lake tour, hit the tees for a round of golf or play a game of disc golf.
Kensington Park is also a great place to shop and dine. The Twelve Oaks Mall is nearby, as well as many other shopping centres in the area. Downtown Novi is a bustling city with unique pubs and restaurants that feature a laid-back atmosphere. The Metropark also hosts exciting events, like concerts and art shows. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous weekend getaway or a relaxing week away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Kensington Park is the perfect choice for your next vacation.
