By Austin Black II
One of the things buyers love most about Detroit is how easy it is to build an active life here, and we point it out on nearly every tour. Between the RiverWalk, the Dequindre Cut, and Belle Isle, the city gives you miles of trails and water right in the middle of everything. Whether you bike, run, or paddle, staying active in Detroit rarely means driving far to do it. Here are the best ways to get moving in the city.
Key Takeaways
- The Dequindre Cut connects Eastern Market to the riverfront on a paved greenway.
- The Detroit RiverWalk offers miles of car-free trail along the water.
- Belle Isle adds bike lanes, riverside trails, and kayak access.
- MoGo bike share and local rentals make it easy to start anytime.
Biking and the Greenways
Detroit's greenways are the easiest way to get moving, and they connect some of the city's best spots.
The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a nearly two-mile paved path that runs below street level, linking Eastern Market to the Detroit Riverfront. Its 20-foot-wide path has separate lanes for walkers and cyclists, plus urban artwork along the way.
Along the route you will find the Freight Yard, a gathering space built from nine repurposed shipping containers with food, drinks, and events through the summer.
The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a nearly two-mile paved path that runs below street level, linking Eastern Market to the Detroit Riverfront. Its 20-foot-wide path has separate lanes for walkers and cyclists, plus urban artwork along the way.
Along the route you will find the Freight Yard, a gathering space built from nine repurposed shipping containers with food, drinks, and events through the summer.
Why the Greenways Work for Everyone
We share these because the trails suit every activity level.
- A flat, paved path that welcomes riders and walkers alike.
- Separate lanes that keep cyclists and pedestrians comfortable.
- A direct link between Eastern Market and the riverfront.
- The Freight Yard as a natural stop along the ride.
The Detroit RiverWalk
The RiverWalk is the heart of active life Downtown, and it is one of the first places we show buyers.
The Detroit International Riverfront stretches from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle, giving you miles of car-free path for walking, running, and cycling. USA Today readers have named it the best Riverwalk in America several years running.
Because it runs right along the water, it turns a routine workout into one of the best views in the city.
The Detroit International Riverfront stretches from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle, giving you miles of car-free path for walking, running, and cycling. USA Today readers have named it the best Riverwalk in America several years running.
Because it runs right along the water, it turns a routine workout into one of the best views in the city.
What the RiverWalk Offers
We highlight these so you can picture your routine here.
- Miles of continuous, car-free path along the Detroit River.
- Repeated national recognition as the best Riverwalk in America.
- Easy access from Downtown and nearby neighborhoods.
- Connections to the Dequindre Cut and Belle Isle.
Belle Isle and Getting on the Water
For a change of pace, Belle Isle gives you room to roam and easy access to the river itself.
The island's perimeter road has bike lanes, and the Driker Trail runs along the Detroit River with wide water views, passing spots like the Kayak Sandbar. It is a favorite for a longer ride or run away from traffic.
If you want to get on the water, Riverside Kayaks on Belle Isle rents boats, and the river, canals, and lagoons offer plenty of paddling.
The island's perimeter road has bike lanes, and the Driker Trail runs along the Detroit River with wide water views, passing spots like the Kayak Sandbar. It is a favorite for a longer ride or run away from traffic.
If you want to get on the water, Riverside Kayaks on Belle Isle rents boats, and the river, canals, and lagoons offer plenty of paddling.
Ways to Stay Active on Belle Isle
We list these so you know the options on the island.
- Bike lanes along the main perimeter road.
- The Driker Trail with Detroit River views.
- Kayak rentals from Riverside Kayaks.
- Paddling on the river, canals, and lagoons.
Getting Started Without Your Own Gear
You do not need to own a bike or kayak to start, because Detroit makes it easy to jump in.
MoGo bike share stations sit throughout Downtown, with their bright red bikes stationed along the RiverWalk and near the Dequindre Cut for spontaneous rides. Wheelhouse Detroit offers traditional rentals and guided tours with cruisers, tandems, and family-friendly setups.
That easy access is part of why so many residents fold outdoor activity into their weekly routine.
MoGo bike share stations sit throughout Downtown, with their bright red bikes stationed along the RiverWalk and near the Dequindre Cut for spontaneous rides. Wheelhouse Detroit offers traditional rentals and guided tours with cruisers, tandems, and family-friendly setups.
That easy access is part of why so many residents fold outdoor activity into their weekly routine.
Easy Ways to Begin
We share these so anyone can start today.
- MoGo bike share for quick, one-way rides Downtown.
- Wheelhouse Detroit for rentals and guided tours.
- Riverside Kayaks for time on the water.
- Trail connections that let you combine routes in one outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best trail for biking in Detroit?
The Dequindre Cut and the Detroit RiverWalk are two of the best, and they connect to each other. Together they link Eastern Market to the riverfront on flat, paved, car-free paths.
Can you kayak in Detroit?
Yes, the Detroit River, canals, and lagoons offer plenty of paddling. Riverside Kayaks on Belle Isle rents boats if you do not have your own.
How can I bike in Detroit without owning a bike?
MoGo bike share has stations across Downtown, including along the RiverWalk and near the Dequindre Cut. Wheelhouse Detroit also offers rentals and guided tours.
Live an Active Life in Detroit With City Living Detroit
We love showing buyers how easy it is to stay active in Detroit, from the RiverWalk to Belle Isle to the greenways that tie the city together. Our team knows which neighborhoods put these trails and waterways right at your doorstep.
If an active life in the city appeals to you, reach out to us, learn more about our work across Detroit and let's start a conversation.
If an active life in the city appeals to you, reach out to us, learn more about our work across Detroit and let's start a conversation.
