Best Places to Run in Northville

One of the best parts of running in Michigan is the variety. You get everything from serene peaceful winter runs on trails with freshly packed snow to great summer road runs along lakes and rivers where the breeze and views help the miles tick by effortlessly.

Northville has some of the best places to run for any and every type of runner, whether you are just getting into running or are training for your 100th marathon. From pub runs and group runs, to places to run solo trail miles, Northville is a great place to run for any type of runner. 

Here are a few of our favorite running routes in Northville. Also, check out the best places to run in West Bloomfield for more great running routes.

Hines Drive

Hines Drive is a winding, fairly hilly road that goes from Northville all the way to Dearborn, with the option to run an out-and-back route of any distance. Just be aware that there's a net uphill northbound, which would be on the way back if you started in Northville!

Easiest place to pick up the trail is to park in the Cass Benton parking lot on the East side of Hines Drive between 7 Mile Rd and 6 Mile Rd. From there, take the sidewalk south along Hines Drive. It's approximately 1.5 miles out from the parking lot to 5 Mile Rd, but you're able to take Hines Drive a lot further. Some of the parks you will run by on the way have public restrooms, but these may be seasonal.

In the summertime and some weekends, they actually shut down part of the road to vehicle traffic to let runners, walkers and cyclists get full use out of the road. While most popular with road runners, there are some dirt trails that allow you to go off-road as well. 

• Starting point: Edward N Hines Dr, Northville, MI 48168
• Surface: Road, dirt trails
• Parking: Yes
• Distance: 2-18 miles

Maybury State Park

Maybury State Park is great for any and all runners. For those who love to pound the pavement, there is a four mile paved bicycle trail that is perfect for running, while trail runners can enjoy six miles of interconnecting hiking trails. In the winter, when conditions allow, a portion of these trails are converted into some fantastic cross-country ski routes that are perfect for cross-training.

This park is full of other outdoor recreation that you can enjoy after your run. There are playgrounds, fishing, horseback trails, mountain biking trails and plenty of places for a picnic.

• Starting point: 49601 Eight Mile Road, Northville, MI 48167
• Surface: Paved, Trails
• Parking: Yes
• Distance: 4-6 miles

Kensington Park

Kensington Park is a little bit of a drive from Northville, but the route is a favorite for long runs and is well worth the trek. There is a 8.5 mile paved trail for runners, walkers and cyclists to enjoy around Kent Lake. There is also an additional 3.4 mile loop as well as numerous hiking trails that you can run as well.

There is a parking fee if you want to park in the lots, but there are a variety of other things to do both in the winter and summer at Kensington Park to make a day of it. From ice fishing and cross-country skiing in the winter to a golf course and swimming in the summer, this is a great park for the family as well as runners.

• Starting point: 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford, MI 48380
• Surface: Paved, Trails
• Parking: Yes, fee
• Distance: 8.5 mile loop, additional paved and unpaved trails

Island Lake Recreation

A short drive from Northville, Island Lake Recreation is a great place for any runner. The park itself has four lakes and the Huron River runs through it, making it a beautiful place to run. There is a paved trail that connects to the Huron Valley Trail and Kensington Metropark Bike Trail that is perfect for long runs, while an extensive trail system gives you options for those that prefer the off-road. 

Plus, these lakes can also be used for open water swimming when it is warm, making it an ideal place for triathletes to train. Be sure to pack a picnic for after your run, there are plenty of scenic picnic spots at this gorgeous park.

• Starting point: 6301 Kensington Road, Brighton MI, 48116
• Surface: Paved, Trails
• Parking: Yes, fee
• Distance: 4+ miles out and back paved trail, over 15 miles of dirt trails