Take a Hike at Hewens Creek

My family loves being outdoors spending time with nature. We have spent countless hours at one of our local parks too, it's close to home, offers fishing, and has plenty of wildlife, bird species and fabulous hiking trails. I consider it my rural backyard! Where is this park you ask? The main entrance is located in a tiny parking lot less than a quarter mile west of Hitchingham on Bemis Road. The name of the park is Hewens Creek (6515 E Bemis Rd Ypsilanti, MI 48197).

 As a parent, I have taken my Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts there. I have picked up trash with the family, and helped remove invasive species (garlic mustard) with my family and my scouts. I have had my children see turtles laying eggs, we have observed a hummingbird in her nest, and been able to identify many species of birds. We have picnicked there and spent days hiking, fishing and wading in the small creek catching critters. We have ventured into the park since moving in more than 12 years ago.

For me it's perfect. Its convenient and quiet. Mostly though I have enjoyed watching the trails become expanded and improved. It is now my go-to sanctuary and quiet zone.

It is an Ypsilanti Township Park in addition to offering mountain bike trails which allow me to hike several miles in a single day. When you arrive, be sure to garb a trail map, or even download one if you have the QR Code. There is another map of some of the trails available at Map My Ride.