The Huron-Clinton Metroparks trails have been a part of my life for the past almost thirty years. I started out rollerblading with my chocolate Lab Levi on the paved trail at Hudson Mills. We spent countless hours there together; these are some of my favorite memories with Levi. In 2012 when I bought my house in Brighton, Huron Meadows became my “home” Metropark because it is basically next door to my house. The hiking trails there are incredible and in my opinion the best natural trails in the Metropark system. I have hiked there regularly in all seasons, first with Levi and later with my current English Pointer named Mellow and my rescue pigeon Birdie. No matter the day, a hiker can find solitude and spend time away from the pavement at Huron Meadows. I have completed the Metropark Trail Challenge for the past several years, and I plan to continue this program as long as it is offered. It is an excellent way to explore all the Metroparks in the system. This Metropark Trail Challenge has given me a great appreciation of everything that the Metroparks have to offer. Since Huron Meadows, Kensington, and Hudson Mills are close to my home and offer amazing outdoor opportunities, I may never have ventured out to the other parks without the added incentive of the Metropark Trail Challenge. Now I look forward to my annual visit to each of the parks that are further from home. The Metroparks are truly a jewel of southeastern Michigan.