Visit Ford Estate Ruins Along Historic Haven Hill Trail In Michigan

There’s something intriguing about combining a natural adventure with a dose of history. Michigan’s many trails and parks boast plenty of fascinating stories, but one outdoor area in particular allows access to a genuine slice of Great Lakes State antiquity. Whether you’re a full-blown history buff or simply an explorer looking to elevate your next stroll, this glimpse of a defunct Ford family estate will surely impress.

Historic Haven Hill Trail is located within Highland Recreation Area, which can be accessed via 5200 Highland Rd in the community of White Lake.

This sprawling spot is home to 5,900 breathtaking acres and offers adventurous visitors the chance to explore forested splendor, lovely lakes, and peaceful marshes in every season.

In addition to its natural beauty, the area also houses the remnants of the Haven Hill Estate, a now-defunct homestead for Edsel and Eleanor Ford, Henry Ford’s son and daughter-in-law.

Edsel brought the estate to life during the mid-1920s, purchasing more than 2,400 acres that featured a stunning lodge, a barn, riding stables, a swimming pool, toboggan run, and more.

Following Ford’s death, the estate was sold to Michigan’s state park system. Due to under-use and fires, though, much of Haven Hill has fallen into disrepair and ruin over the decades.

Today, visitors can see what’s left of Haven Hill for themselves by embarking on the Historic Haven Hill Trail. Begin at the Circle Parking Lot and make the quarter-mile trek to an entrance gate.

Upon passing the entrance gate, you’ll need to trek a bit further - but views of the impressive lodge, carriage house, French-imported tennis courts, and more make it worth the walk.

At approximately 1.4 miles round-trip, the journey to Haven Hill’s ruins makes for a brief yet unforgettable outing. There’s no better way to experience a slice of Michigan history.

To learn more about the Historic Haven Hill Trail and for detailed directions, click here. Have you been lucky enough to check out this site for yourself during previous family outings? Share your favorite memories with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend more inventive adventures in the Great Lakes State by filling out our official nomination form here.

If you’re craving another outdoor journey, check out this history-rich state park in Michigan.

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5200 Highland Rd, White Lake, MI 48383, USA

Visit The Fascinating Ford Estate Ruins In Michigan For An Adventure Into The Past

Sophie Boudreau

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