Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre island gem in the Detroit River, offering some of the most scenic and serene biking and running paths in the city. Just minutes from downtown, this state park is a favorite among locals and visitors for outdoor recreation, waterfront views, and cultural attractions.
Why Belle Isle is Perfect for Biking & Running
- Scenic 5.4-Mile Loop: The perimeter road offers a smooth, paved path ideal for cyclists, joggers, and walkers, with stunning views of the Detroit skyline and Windsor, Canada.
- Nature & Wildlife: Enjoy peaceful routes through wooded areas, wetlands, and along the riverfront—perfect for a relaxing run or an energizing ride.
- Trail Connections: Belle Isle is the southern trailhead of the Iron Belle Trail, Michigan’s longest state trail system, making it a great starting point for longer adventures.
Park Highlights
- Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
- Belle Isle Aquarium
- James Scott Memorial Fountain
- Belle Isle Nature Center
- Kayaking, fishing, and picnic areas
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily
- Access: Free for pedestrians and cyclists; vehicles require a Michigan Recreation Passport
- Location: Enter via the MacArthur Bridge at Jefferson Ave & East Grand Blvd
- Official Website: Belle Isle Park – Michigan DNR
Stay Nearby
Looking for a place to stay near Belle Isle? Explore our furnished rentals just minutes away from the park: Detroit Furnished Rentals
Related Outdoor Guides
- Detroit Riverwalk – Waterfront biking and walking trail
- Dequindre Cut Greenway – Urban trail connecting Eastern Market to the riverfront
Belle Isle Park is more than a park—it’s a destination for fitness, nature, and unforgettable views.
