Innovation Hills in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is a one-of-a-kind park that blends natural beauty, sustainable design, and family-friendly features across 110 acres of preserved wetlands, woodlands, and modern amenities. With its ADA-accessible boardwalks, sensory gardens, vibrant wildlife, and eco-conscious infrastructure, it’s more than just a park—it’s an immersive outdoor experience for all ages. Whether you’re searching for scenic hiking trails, inclusive playgrounds, or educational nature programs, Innovation Hills offers something special year-round just outside Detroit.
Innovation Hills Park is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and serves as one of the premier nature destinations in the region. Nestled within Oakland County, the park is easily accessible via major highways such as I-75 and M-59. It is situated at 2800 W Hamlin Road, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors from nearby metro Detroit areas. Ample parking is available on-site, including designated spaces for people with disabilities.
Innovation Hills Park is open year-round, with regular hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. These hours may vary slightly depending on the season or special events, so it is recommended to check the Rochester Hills city website or park information boards in advance.
The park is equipped with modern and family-friendly amenities. Visitors can enjoy clean restrooms, well-maintained picnic shelters, paved walking paths, and a large playground that is ADA-compliant. The Innovation Hills Pavilion offers covered seating areas often used for events and group gatherings. Drinking fountains and bike racks are also available throughout the park.
Innovation Hills Park distinguishes itself through a combination of natural beauty and innovative design. One of its most remarkable features is the mile-long boardwalk that winds through restored wetlands, providing a serene and immersive nature experience. The park also boasts a sensory garden, which is designed to engage all five senses, making it ideal for children and individuals with sensory sensitivities. At night, portions of the park are beautifully illuminated, creating a safe and visually striking after-dark experience. Unique to Innovation Hills is its emphasis on sustainability, including eco-friendly materials used in construction and natural habitat preservation efforts.
Innovation Hills Park is renowned for its rich natural environment, spanning over 110 acres of preserved woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. The park is the largest in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and was designed with environmental sustainability and native habitat preservation in mind. Its diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of plant and animal species, making it a prime location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the park’s most iconic features is its extensive network of ADA-accessible boardwalk trails. These wooden walkways meander through marshes, ponds, and forested areas, offering visitors an immersive experience in Michigan’s natural beauty. The trails are designed to minimize disruption to the native environment while providing a safe and enjoyable path for walkers, joggers, and families with strollers.
The boardwalk system stretches over one mile and includes scenic overlooks, educational signage, and rest areas. These paths are especially popular during sunrise and sunset hours, when the park’s wetlands come alive with birds, frogs, and other wildlife.
Innovation Hills features a striking man-made waterfall and a series of cascading streams that flow through the park’s central area. These water features not only enhance the park’s visual appeal but also serve to educate visitors about sustainable water management practices. The soothing sound of running water and the carefully landscaped surroundings make this area a favorite spot for relaxation and photography.
A unique attraction at Innovation Hills is its natural play area, thoughtfully designed to blend into the environment while offering children a safe and stimulating space to explore. Constructed from natural materials such as logs, boulders, and sand, the play area encourages imaginative play and physical activity. Adjacent to this is a sensory garden filled with aromatic plants and textured surfaces, providing a soothing and inclusive experience for children of all abilities.
To support local biodiversity, Innovation Hills includes several pollinator gardens that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These gardens are planted with native flowering species and serve both ecological and educational purposes. Visitors can learn about the importance of pollinators in the ecosystem and witness their activity up close during spring and summer months.
Multiple observation decks are strategically placed throughout the park, offering panoramic views of the wetlands and woodlands. These platforms are ideal for birdwatching, with species such as great blue herons, woodpeckers, and migratory songbirds regularly spotted. Wildlife enthusiasts often bring binoculars and cameras to capture sightings of deer, turtles, and other native animals in their natural habitats.
Innovation Hills offers distinct natural experiences throughout the seasons. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the trails, while summer brings lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn transforms the park into a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, attracting photographers and leaf-peepers from across the region. In winter, the snow-covered boardwalks and frozen wetlands create a serene, almost magical landscape ideal for peaceful walks and nature photography.
The park’s design emphasizes sustainability, with permeable pavements, solar lighting, and rain gardens incorporated throughout the landscape. These features not only reduce environmental impact but also educate the public on green infrastructure and conservation practices.
Whether you're looking to explore native Michigan ecosystems, enjoy a peaceful stroll, or introduce children to the wonders of nature, Innovation Hills Park offers a variety of natural attractions that highlight the harmony between recreation and environmental stewardship.
Innovation Hills Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, offering visitors ample time to explore its extensive trails and natural features. Admission to the park is free, making it an accessible destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, Innovation Hills Park is situated just off West Hamlin Road, east of Adams Road. The park’s location makes it easily reachable from downtown Rochester and the greater Detroit metro area. On-site parking is available at no cost. However, during peak times—especially weekends and holidays—the lot can fill quickly, so early arrival is recommended.
The park is designed with inclusivity in mind. Many trails and boardwalks are wheelchair-accessible, including the award-winning ADA-compliant boardwalk that winds through wetlands and forested areas. Restrooms located near the main entrance are also accessible.
Innovation Hills offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience, including:
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, especially in warmer months, as hydration stations are limited to central areas.
The park features over 2 miles of scenic trails, including gravel paths, paved walkways, and elevated boardwalks. Trails are clearly marked and vary in difficulty, making them suitable for casual walkers, joggers, and families with strollers. Bicycles are permitted on certain trails; however, some areas are pedestrian-only to preserve the natural environment.
Leashed dogs are welcome throughout most areas of the park. Pet waste stations are conveniently placed along the main trails. Visitors are reminded to respect the local wildlife, which includes deer, turtles, and a variety of bird species. Feeding wildlife is not permitted.
For the safety of all guests, the following rules are enforced:
Park rangers and local law enforcement routinely patrol the area to ensure compliance and assist guests as needed.
A visitor information kiosk is located near the main entrance, offering maps, brochures, and details about park events. Volunteers and staff are often available during peak hours to answer questions and provide guidance.
For specific questions or to report issues during your visit, guests can contact the City of Rochester Hills Parks & Natural Resources Department at (248) 656-4673. More information and updates are also available on the official city website.
Innovation Hills Park offers an extensive variety of activities and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests. As the largest park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, spanning over 110 acres, the park has been thoughtfully developed to blend nature, innovation, and interactive experiences.
One of the most popular features of Innovation Hills is its network of nature trails. With more than 5 miles of trails winding through woodlands, wetlands, and along the Clinton River, the park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The boardwalk trails are ADA-accessible, making them suitable for visitors with mobility needs. Interpretive signage throughout the trails provides information on local ecology, wildlife, and environmental preservation efforts.
The park’s innovative playground is a standout attraction, designed to encourage creativity and physical activity. Built with natural materials and incorporating interactive elements, the playground includes climbing structures, slides, and balance features inspired by nature. It’s divided into zones tailored for different age groups, ensuring a safe and engaging experience for toddlers to preteens.
The Clinton River, which runs through Innovation Hills, offers opportunities for fishing and nature observation. Designated fishing areas are accessible from the boardwalks and bridges. While watercraft activities like kayaking are not formally supported within the park, visitors often enjoy watching the flowing river and spotting aquatic wildlife such as turtles, frogs, and birds.
Innovation Hills is equipped with scenic picnic areas, some of which can be reserved for groups or events. Open green spaces provide an ideal setting for frisbee, yoga, reading, or simply relaxing in nature. Many visitors bring their own blankets and enjoy impromptu picnics on the grass, especially during the warmer months.
A unique aspect of the park is its focus on interactive education. Innovation Hills incorporates QR-coded signs and digital touchpoints that allow visitors to learn about sustainability, local habitats, and the park’s design elements. These features make the park not only a place for recreation but also for learning and engagement.
Throughout the year, Innovation Hills hosts events such as nature walks, yoga sessions, and family-friendly festivals. Seasonal programs include fall foliage tours, winter snowshoe treks, and springtime wildflower walks. The park’s amphitheater is also used for outdoor performances and educational talks during the summer months.
Innovation Hills is designed with inclusivity in mind. Most trails are wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. The park is also pet-friendly, with designated areas for dogs on leashes and waste disposal stations throughout the grounds. Dog owners often use the park’s trails for daily walks, making it a popular destination for local pet lovers.
One of the park’s most innovative features is its illuminated pathways. Select trail sections are equipped with solar-powered lighting, allowing safe and scenic evening walks. These lights enhance the visitor experience after sunset and make the park accessible for those who prefer to visit during cooler evening hours.
Thanks to its diverse natural habitats, Innovation Hills is a favorite spot for photographers and birdwatchers. The wetland areas attract a variety of bird species including herons, red-winged blackbirds, and woodpeckers. Benches and viewing areas are strategically placed throughout the park to offer prime observation points. Local photography clubs often organize meetups here to capture the park’s seasonal beauty.
Whether you're planning a family outing, a solo nature walk, or a community event, Innovation Hills Park provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities that highlight both environmental sustainability and innovative design.
Planning ahead can make your trip to Innovation Hills Park more enjoyable and stress-free. With its expansive natural landscapes, innovative play areas, and environmentally conscious design, the park offers something for everyone. Here are key considerations to help you prepare for your visit.
Innovation Hills Park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Weekdays typically offer a quieter experience, ideal for those looking to enjoy the park’s tranquil atmosphere. Mornings are also recommended for nature walks and photography, as wildlife is more active and the lighting is optimal.
To make the most of your visit, pack accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the park’s 110-acre trail system. Other essentials include:
Families with young children may also want to bring along extra clothes, as the innovative playground areas include water features and sand zones.
Innovation Hills is designed with inclusivity in mind. The park features ADA-compliant trails, restrooms, and parking areas. Families with strollers or visitors with mobility devices will find the terrain accommodating, especially along the boardwalks and paved paths. Restrooms are located near the main entrance and at key points along the trail system.
Michigan weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to check the forecast before heading out. Summer can bring high humidity and occasional thunderstorms, while winter conditions may limit access to some trails. However, the park remains open and scenic throughout the seasons, even offering snowshoeing opportunities in the colder months.
To preserve the park’s natural beauty and ensure a safe environment for all guests, visitors are encouraged to follow posted guidelines:
While daily park access is free and does not require reservations, certain amenities such as pavilion rentals, event spaces, and guided educational programs may require advance booking. Group visits, especially school field trips or community outings, should be coordinated with the City of Rochester Hills Parks Department to ensure availability and support.
Planning ahead allows visitors to enjoy everything Innovation Hills has to offer—from serene nature trails to engaging family-friendly attractions—all within an eco-conscious and thoughtfully designed setting.
Innovation Hills is more than a beautiful nature park—it’s a dynamic, inclusive destination that combines recreation, education, and sustainability. Whether you're a local looking for your next weekend outing or a visitor exploring Michigan’s scenic spots, Innovation Hills offers a refreshing blend of nature, innovation, and community. Plan your visit today to discover everything this exceptional public space has to offer.
