On a recent Metro-park trek, I discovered a path  of which I had never been aware. The following photos are a record of one of my several journeys on this incredible route. It starts out on the ridge of a hill.

This particular ridge of hill has the Huron River on one side and a large tributary stream that winds it's way into the Huron on the other side. The stream was quite swollen by melting snow on the day I took these photos. 

Some background is probably appropriate here. I am always amazed at the hidden paths that exist for us to discover. This particular path I discovered when I was exercising. I came across a path left by previous travelers in the snow that lead  

to this charming path. It started with a steep (for Michigan) path that lead to the peak of a ridge. Here you see photos that show the river on one side and the tributary on the other. This particular day was a tad treacherous because of the ice on the path. Nevertheless, your fearless photographer trekked the path to bring these shots to you (mainly because he had done it the day before sans camera and was comfortable with the route).

These shots show the cool pathway through the roots of the old growth trees that survive on the peak of the ridge. Survivors, these trees...

From the ridge, the path wends its way through a series of younger trees and into various valleys (as seen at right).

A good nature path gives you some challenges like this. That way you can brag to all your online friends about the incredible challenges you faced. At the lower part of the right-hand photo, you can see a stream bridge composed of several logs. Very cool.

Above you see a more challenging path through the water of the Huron and its streams. Of course, I didn't actually wander through that! It was actually a side path not taken. But what a photo, eh? On the right are some nice shots of the Huron and  valleys through which the path traipsed. I actually did hike that particular route. It was sort of fun as I ran down the hill to gain momentum to climb the other side. Of course, the snow challenged me a bit, but what's life without a challenge, right?

At left and below are neat bits of path hindered by a fallen trees. I love the one covered in vines.

This is probably my favorite shot. It isn't on the path (obviously), but I love this turn in one of the streams leading to the mighty Huron. Imagine this in the summer (if you're good, I'll shoot it in the summer so you can compare it. If you're not good...Santa won't visit your house. ;) )

Below is the most treacherous crossing on the river. Actually, this is another stream that's been increased by the melting snow. That single exposed log? That's the bridge. Some fun, eh? Below is a nice shot of the grand vista of the path leading along the Huron. The previous travelers left a pathway that was now covered in ice. It's a nice vista, isn't it? I must admit that finding a path in South-Eastern Michigan surprised me. Most of this area is pretty flat and, dare I say it, a wee bit dull. This path which skirted the river proved to be a wonderful distraction from the normal landscape. The icy path notwithstanding. I plan to revisit this path (multiple times, most likely). (Although probably without the camera. It's a pain to keep stopping to take photos...)
Here's another nice shot of the water's edge path. You may be able to see things like this all the time, but I can't get enough of them. What amazed me is that so many other previous travelers had discovered it before I had. I followed in their footsteps (literally) to discover this bit of magic. How did they know about it? 

It isn't labeled like so many of the Metro-park paths are. It definitely isn't paved like a lot of the paths are (a big plus in my book). So how did they know? I guess it doesn't matter, because they led me to the path. So I'm happy.
Here are some wildlife photos. These are from the trail head, not the actual path.
      
Some additional shots after a fresh snow. The left pic is from the path and is similar to one of the above shots. The right hand photo is a nice shot off the side of the path to a stream about 30 foot below.