Eliza Howell Park

Eliza Howell Park, located in the Brightmoor neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan, is a vast public park spanning 250 acres, making it the fourth largest park in the city. Originally established in 1936 when the Howell family donated 138 acres to the City of Detroit, the park has grown into an urban oasis that highlights the natural beauty of the Rouge River floodplain. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including wildflower prairies, vernal ponds, and a hardwood forest canopy. Its landscape offers a serene escape from the urban environment surrounding it, attracting nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Eliza Howell Park provides visitors with over two miles of hiking trails that navigate a mix of terrain. These trails vary from accessible crushed limestone paths to rustic woodland trails and include features like a boardwalk over a vernal pond and a concrete bridge crossing the Rouge River. The park’s wild inhabitants include deer, foxes, coyotes, and various bird species, making it a haven for birdwatching and nature photography. Additionally, the park is home to Patrick Dougherty's "Stickwork" sculpture, a remarkable art installation crafted from natural materials.

The park also serves as a hub for community activities, hosting events such as art workshops, music performances, and seasonal festivals like the "Orange, Gold & Green Fall Festival." Partnerships with organizations like Sidewalk Detroit have further enhanced the cultural and recreational offerings at the park, ensuring it remains an engaging and accessible space for the local community.