Top 7 Things to Do For Active Travelers in The Brighton Howell Area

May 19, 2025

The Brighton Howell Area in southeast Michigan is an active traveler’s dream. It houses 50,000+ acres of parks, 123 scenic trails, 19 public golf courses, plenty of public lakes, and much more. If you want to reconnect with nature or explore scenic views, the Brighton Howell Area is the perfect place. Start planning your trip and include these top seven things to do for active travelers in the Brighton Howell Area.

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1. Hike Scenic Trails

The Brighton Howell Area offers 123 scenic trails that stretch across multiple state parks, recreation areas, and township parks. Throughout each park, you’ll experience a vast range of trails, each with scenic views and diverse terrain.

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2. Tee Off on Champion Courses

Those who love to hit the links will rejoice in the variety of golf courses in the area. The Brighton Howell Area offers 19 different courses perfect for all skill levels. Some championship courses include Mystic Creek Golf Course, Huntmore Golf Club, and The Links at Hunters Ridge.

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3. Saddle Up For Horseback Riding

Experience the great outdoors from a different height with a horseback ride at the Brighton Recreation Riding Stables or High Vibe Trail Rides. These guided rides take you through scenic trails suitable for beginners and seasoned riders. It’s a unique way to explore the beautiful landscapes while enjoying a leisurely, guided adventure.

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4. Conquer the Biking Trails

Mountain biking enthusiasts will rejoice in the Brighton Howell Area’s many trails. One of the most favored trails is the Torn Shirt Trail in the Brighton Recreation Area, a 6-mile loop with steep climbs and thrilling descents. The area’s trails are perfect for bikers of all experience levels and promise an exhilarating adventure.

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5. Paddle Lakes & Rivers

If you’d rather be on the water, the area has a plethora of options for paddling enthusiasts or those who just want to cool off. You can drop your watercraft on the Huron River Water Trail or at various other launch points. If you don’t have your own, check out these places to rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.

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6. Try a Game of Disc Golf

Bring your discs on your next Brighton Howell Area adventure to explore the many Disc Golf courses! From the lush, tree-lined fairways of Kensington Metropark to the challenging terrain at Whitmore Lake Community Disc Golf Course, disc golf enthusiasts will find a variety of courses to test their skills and enjoy the great outdoors.

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7. Cast a Line & Go Fishing

There’s nothing more relaxing than time on the water, casting your line, and reeling in a catch. The Brighton Howell Area offers an abundance of opportunities to do just that. Rent or drop your boat at Kensington Metropark’s Kent Lake or try shore fishing on Island Lake Recreation Area’s Spring Mill Pond. Many great spots offer clear waters and plenty of fish!

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Whether you are looking for the next great outdoor adventure or just an activity to release some excess energy, the Brighton Howell Area is the perfect place for you! Before you visit, be sure to request a visitor’s guide and sign up for our newsletter.

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Attractions Outside Activities