Innovation Hills in Rochester, Michigan, is a spacious and welcoming park that offers a wide range of activities designed for people of all ages and abilities. Covering about 110 acres, this park is thoughtfully planned to make nature accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to walk, bike, kayak, or simply relax outdoors, Innovation Hills is a great spot to escape the busy city life.
Location and Hours
Located at 2800 W Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48309, Innovation Hills is easy to find and close to many local amenities, including shopping centers and medical facilities. The city provides ample parking, though the main lot can fill up, so there is additional parking across the street with a safe crosswalk and flashing lights to access the park.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering visitors plenty of time to enjoy its features throughout the day and into the evening with well-designed solar-powered lighting that gently illuminates trails and pathways.
Park Layout and Trails
Innovation Hills is divided by the Clinton River, with 62 acres on the south side and 48 acres of green space on the north side, creating diverse areas to explore. There are paved trails and a boardwalk that remain accessible even in winter, ideal for walking, biking, or using a stroller. The boardwalk meanders through natural wetland areas, where you can see turtles, birds, and other wildlife along the river and ponds.
Nature-Themed Playground
One of the park’s standout features is its 3-acre nature-themed playground, designed to be fully inclusive and safe for children of all physical abilities. The playground is fenced for security and includes various play equipment like twisty slides, a zip line, tunnels for hide-and-seek, musical instruments, and oversized busy boards that encourage creativity.
There’s a giant treehouse at its heart, and a small river with working water pumps that kids love to splash in. The playground also offers seating areas for parents and caregivers to relax while watching their children play.
Additional Amenities
In addition to the playground, Innovation Hills features:
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Solar-powered lights and glowing pavement create a magical ambiance for evening walks.
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A rope bridge near the Turtle Trail, about a 10-minute walk from the main park area, offers unique views over the river and access to a half-mile loop trail filled with varied plant life. This feature adds an adventurous touch and is also lit by solar energy for safe evening visits.
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Rock formations and grassy hills for climbing and sliding.
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Fishing access on the Clinton River follows Michigan state regulations.
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Kayak launch area near the river, equipped with a kayak cart rental by reservation for easy transport to the water.
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Modern restrooms (seasonal), picnic tables, benches along the trails, charging stations near water features for devices, and dog bag stations for pet owners.
Community and Accessibility
Innovation Hills is designed to be a community space as much as a natural retreat. The park was named by residents through a community contest, reflecting local pride and connection. It welcomes leashed dogs and aims to be a safe, inclusive place where people can gather, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors together.
Visitor Experience
Visitors often remark on the peaceful environment, helped by the calming sounds of birdsong and flowing water. The under-two-mile loop trail is perfect for a leisurely walk, jogging, or a stroller outing, making it a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Seasonal Highlights
Across four seasons, Innovation Hills has something special to offer:
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Spring and summer bring blooming shrubs and trees, lively ponds and waterfalls, and children happily playing in the water features.
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Fall showcases colorful foliage amid a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
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Winter lights up with glowing paths and frosted natural beauty, inviting visitors for fresh-air exercise even in colder months.
Awards and Recognition
The park has earned recognition for its innovative and decorative design. It has won awards such as the “Special Innovative – Decorative” award from the Michigan Concrete Association and the “Park Design of the Year” from the Michigan Recreation and Park Association. Features like glow stones embedded in the concrete and a turf-covered slanted wall that doubles as a slide showcase its creative approach to blending play, nature, and modern design.
Whether you want a peaceful spot for reflection, a place for your children to explore and play safely, or an active day of kayaking or hiking, Innovation Hills offers something for everyone. With its location at 2800 W Hamlin Road, daily opening hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and a full range of amenities, it’s an excellent choice for enjoying the outdoors in Rochester Hills.
If you haven’t visited yet, pack your walking shoes, bring the family, or load up your kayak. Innovation Hills is ready to welcome you to a friendly, well-equipped natural space where you can relax, explore, and connect with nature and community.
Sources: rochesterhills.org, yelp.com
Header Image Source: hrcengr.com
