Have You Been to Kensington Metropark Lately?

We have, and each time we go I am always surprised at what an amenity this park is to those of us fortunate enough to live nearby. I have yet to explore all of its resources and activities, despite numerous visits, and I am still learning of more things it has to offer that I wasn’t aware of.

The park encompasses over 4,400 acres. Its terrain is diverse- with marshy bogs and wetlands, open fields, wooded valleys, and big hills. There is an 18-hole regulation golf course, a disc golf course, a nature center, a farm learning center, picnic areas, beaches, boat rentals and a paved hike-bike trail. In the winter months, there is no place better to cross-country ski, sled and toboggan, ice skate or ice fish.

A can't miss at the park is the paved 8 ½ mile long trail that circles Kent Lake. On any give day you will find families, bikers, hikers, inline skaters, and dog walkers enjoying the path. Keep in mind a helmet is required for anyone on a wheeled device in this park. Also you can easily access the Island Lake State Park trail (an additional 4 miles) from the Kensington Trail as well as the Lyon Township Bike Trail.

One of my favorite park pleasures are the Interpretive Events offered at the Nature Center and Farm Center. On weekends these low-cost programs offer a great chance for you and your family to get to know the park a little better. Coming in September are sessions on such topics as “Life Down Below” (a look at what lives on the forest floor), “Off the Beaten Path” (visit some of the less traveled areas of the Nature area); and “Astronomy at the Beach” (view planets and stars through powerful telescopes). Check out the Kensington Metro Park web page, your local paper, or call 1-800-477-3178 for a full schedule.

Newly added this year is the “Splash ‘n’ Blast” area. Located on the north end of the Martindale Beach area on Kent Lake, it features two spiral 250- foot waterslides along side a water spray area. It is the perfect escape from a hot day.

Kensington Metro Park 2240 W. Buno Road, Milford, MI 48380-4410
The main park entrances are located off of I-96, at exit 151-Kensington Road, or exit 153-Kent Lake Road near Milford. Vehicle Entry Permit- Annual $20, Seniors $12, Daily $4.