Struggling to get your kid to sit still for storytime? Try one of southeast Michigan’s storybook trails! These outdoor paths feature pages of a children’s book posted along the way — so kids can read as they walk, run or explore.
Multiple libraries in the metro Detroit region have partnered with parks to bring these literacy-building mini-adventures to life. It all began with StoryWalks, created by chronic disease specialist Ann Ferguson back in 2007 to encourage families to get outside and moving.
They’re ideal for young kids through elementary school, but older children might enjoy them too.
Why not make it a challenge? See how many you and your kids can visit.
Tips for enjoying storybook trails
- Go before you go. Most trails lack restrooms, so take a bathroom break first.
- Dress for the adventure. Wear close-toed shoes, bring a jacket and use bug spray if you’re heading into the woods.
- Stick to the path. Avoid getting lost — or stuck in poison ivy — by staying on the trail.
- Bring water. Not all parks have fountains, so pack a full water bottle.
10 can’t-miss storybook trails throughout southeast Michigan
1. Auburn Hills Public Library Storybook Trail
Address: 3400 E. Seyburn Drive, Auburn Hills
This trail is in swing by summer and remains open into October, weather permitting. The story featured on the walk changes monthly, so be sure to check back often.
2. Baker Woods Preserve Storybook Trail
Address: 11914 Trinkle Road, Dexter
Books are updated every four to eight weeks at this nature preserve trail. Paths are unpaved, so it’s best for ages 2+ who can walk (baby carriers for younger/no strollers).
3. Beverly Park Storybook Trail
Address: 300 W. Merrill St., Birmingham
Stroll 0.4 miles around this local park to read a full book in segments. New stories are posted each month from April through December.
4. Friendship Woods Story Trail
Address: 30300 Hales St., Madison Heights
Find a book in any season at this 0.2-mile trail at Red Oaks Nature Center. Books change 3-4 times per year and include favorites like The Mitten by Jan Brett and In the Small Small Pond by Denise Fleming.
5. Heritage Park Story Trail
Address: 1150 S. Canton Center Road, Canton
Walk this trail around a large pond and, when you reach the last page, you’ll have clocked a half mile. The story changes monthly. In 2025 watch for Life on Mars by Jon Agee, The Dragon Who Didn’t Like Fire by Gemma Merino and more.
6. Highland Township Library StoryWalk
Address: 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland
This grassy path winds down to a lake! Watch for books that tie in with the library’s outdoor programs, like a yearly Monarch Butterfly Festival. New books appear in April and are removed for the season by late November.
7. Livonia Public Library StoryWalk
Address: 32777 Five Mile Road, Livonia
The Nature Nook at the library holds this StoryWalk, which includes a Braille overlay. The stories change frequently, so be sure to visit often.
8. Martin Road Park Story Trail
Address: 1615 E. Lewiston Ave., Ferndale
Enjoy a stroll along these paved trails and explore the latest picture books, which rotate regularly and include interactive prompts for kids.
9. Springfield Township Library Storybook Trail
Address: 12000 Davisburg Road, Davisburg
This 2/3-mile trail winds through the Shiawassee Basin Preserve and features 18 stops. It ends near a playground, perfect for littles with more energy to burn. Stories change monthly.
10. Sterling Heights Library StoryWalks
Addresses:
- Beaver Creek Park: 34100 King Richard Drive
- Hadley Park: 11000 Canal Road
These trails through a pair of parks feature a variety of classic and newer books, which change throughout the year.
This content is sponsored by Wayne County Community College District. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Raising Kids Who Love to Read.
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