Highland, Michigan, sits atop a plateau just north of Detroit metro and southeast of Flint. Scattered throughout the countryside sits a multitude of small farms and public lands, many housing horses, and other smaller domesticated livestock. Highland State Recreation Area rests within this landscape. The park offers many outdoor adventures, ranging from hiking and snowshoeing to cross-country skiing and horseback riding.
Swimming and boating are available at the many ponds and lakes within the park, and a horseback riding staging area has been erected with a stable (under current renovation) and platforms for public use. Rustic camping sites and fire pits are located in the park, as well, but reservations are necessary.
Perched in one of the park's highest points sits the refuge of Haven Hill. This was previously a private retreat founded and maintained by Edsell Ford that now sits with the stone wall footprint of the lodge and the restored carriage house, as well. This historical landmark has been preserved by the Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Highland Recreation Area. It is marked with several informational signs to read about the refuge's use and prominence during an era of American ingenuity and progress. It also provided an escape to nature for the Ford family and several prominent leaders in the country of that time. The area also hosts several outdoor activities throughout the year, starting with the Redbud reveal in May and the Haven Hill Festival in the summer.
The park rests near Pontiac, Detroit, and Flint, Michigan, so it is accessed and frequented by a multitude of humans. Please take care to leave no trace and pick up after yourself to help preserve a natural refuge and landmark of the region's history. Parts of the park are open to hunting so please take note and exercise caution where necessary.
Comments
Sign In and share them.