Distance: 7.6 miles

Walking time: 2 hours, 47 minutes

Driving time: 19 minutes

If you love history, then drive approximately 40 miles south of metro Detroit (or just over the Ohio border if you’re coming from the south) to “Michigan’s Cornerstone,” the city of Monroe. Known in the early days as Frenchtown, this settlement was the location of several conflicts between British and U.S. forces during the War of 1812 because of its favorable position on the River Raisin; it was the shortest area at which to cross.

Monroe has several famous individuals who called it home. The big one is General George A. Custer, the cavalry commander from the Civil War whose infamous “last stand” at Little Big Horn resonates into popular use to this day. Another famous person is Elizabeth Upham McWebb, who wrote the Little Brown Bear series.

To reach all of the sights, you can follow the River Raisin Heritage Trail, a non-motorized, 7.5-mile route that connects Sterling State Park and Munson Park and follows the winding path of the River Raisin. The heritage trail connects more than just the two parks, it connects visitors with the history and heart of the city. You can pick up the trail anywhere along the way that you choose if you decide to walk, or you can drive to the various locations.

Stop #1: Sterling State Park, State Park Road

Many folks would recommend you make this your last stop, but we decided to start things off with something unique: the only state park (out of 103) to be located on Lake Erie. There is one mile of sandy shoreline, a boating access site, and access to trails. There are several lagoons and marshes within the state park. Visit Hunt Club Marsh’s observation deck. A recreation passport is required to enter the park.

Stop #2: River Raisin National Battlefield Park, N. Dixie Highway

“Remember the Raisin!” became a rallying cry that Americans used throughout the War of 1812 in order to inspire more resistance and grow their troops, following their defeat on the north bank of the River Raisin in January of 1813. Well-trained British troops, aligned with Native American warriors, took back the town that had been captured by American General Hames Winchester only a few days before. The battle was not without sacrifice. Healthy troops on both sides and dozens of wounded American prisoners lost their lives. It was the greatest defeat for the Americans during this larger conflict.

At this battlefield park, you can start by visiting the Visitor and Education Center, which has maps, an art theater, and interactive exhibits. This will give you context for the other sights you can visit, including General Winchester’s headquarters, Kentucky Memorial Place (unidentified Kentucky victims from the battle), and a stone cairn monument in honor of the soldiers from this battle.

Stop #: Monroe County Historical Museum, Monroe Street

Every city has a story to tell, and Monroe’s is encapsulated in the county’s historical museum, located at 126 S Monroe Street. According to past visitors, “The first floor has local history and the top floor has local photography, the history of Custer, and war history… arranged in interesting displays….. We didn’t expect much from the county museum. We were surprised how good and how many Custer things were there. This museum is small, but it packs a lot of punch. There are also exhibits about the various wars that Monroe residents fought in including the Civil War. There are Native American and early French settler exhibits, as well as Depression era WPA/PWA art. Additionally, there are rotating exhibits on various topics of interest.” Visit on Sunday from 12:00 to 5:00 PM and Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Stop 4: Munson Park, Custer Road

This park is on the west end of the city and adjacent to the airport. It’s the largest park in Monroe and is used for diverse purposes. There’s a playground and a sports complex, which is used by local teams. But there are also walking trails, pavilions, and spots to go fishing on the River Raisin. It’s a perfect place to relax at the end of an educational day.

 

In addition…

If you love to canoe or kayak, then you can do so on the River Raisin. There are a couple canoe liveries west from Monroe, one near the town of Dundee and another in Tecumseh. Visit the River Raisin Watershed Council for a water trail map as well as rental information. The trail map on this website also notes access points if you already have your own watercraft.

 

Nearby MARVAC Members

Camp Lord Willing, Monroe

Harbortown RV Resort, Monroe