Do you picture stepping onto a leafy trail minutes after your morning coffee, or sneaking in a sunset paddle before dinner? If outdoor time is a must-have, Dexter puts parks, trails, and the Huron River within easy reach. You want the right home and neighborhood that match that lifestyle. In this guide, you’ll learn which green spaces shape daily life, where to look for homes near them, and what to check before you buy. Let’s dive in.
Dexter’s parks and trails at a glance
Hudson Mills Metropark
Hudson Mills Metropark sits just outside Dexter with river frontage, multi-use trails, picnic areas, and year-round recreation. It is a regional draw for cycling, paddling, cross-country skiing, and family gatherings. For official maps, permitted uses, and seasonal details, review the Hudson Mills page from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.
- Explore park information and trail maps through the official Hudson Mills Metropark page: Hudson Mills Metropark
Border-to-Border Trail (B2B)
The Border-to-Border Trail is a county-led, multi-use network connecting communities across Washtenaw County. Dexter benefits from several completed segments, including links toward Ann Arbor. For current segment status and maps, check the county’s project hub.
- See official maps and segment updates: Washtenaw County Parks’ Border-to-Border Trail
Huron River access
The Huron River runs through Dexter, offering public launches near the village and within Hudson Mills. Residents use the corridor for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. For paddling maps and water quality context, start with the regional watershed organization.
- Learn more about access points and paddling resources: Huron River Watershed Council
Everyday life near greenways
- Active commuting. Many residents use B2B segments for training rides and runs, and some leverage continuous links for bicycle commuting toward Ann Arbor where segments are complete and signed.
- Morning or evening paddles. Living near public put-ins lets you get on the water without a long drive. Hudson Mills and local launches make quick outings doable.
- Family recreation. Easy walks on neighborhood greenways, playground stops, and picnic days at larger parks are part of the rhythm of life.
- Dog walking and meetups. Trail edges often double as social hubs where neighbors connect.
- Year-round fitness. Expect trail running and biking in warm months, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on selected groomed areas in winter.
Seasonal notes: spring and fall bring standout foliage and prime paddling. After heavy rain, some trail segments can be muddy. Summer weekends at major parks see peak use, and trailhead parking may be tight.
Where to look for homes
Village of Dexter
- Housing mix: historic cottages, early-20th-century homes, and some infill condos or townhomes near downtown.
- Lifestyle: walkable to shops and restaurants, with quick rides to B2B access points and river launches.
Dexter Township and rural edges
- Housing mix: newer subdivisions, single-family homes on larger lots, rural acreage, and some riverfront parcels.
- Lifestyle: more privacy and space, closer driving access to Hudson Mills and, in some areas, equestrian trails.
Along the B2B corridor toward Ann Arbor
- Housing mix: a blend of older and newer single-family homes and some townhome developments.
- Lifestyle: attractive for buyers who value potential non-motorized access toward Ann Arbor where trail links are continuous.
Riverfront properties
- Housing mix: modest river cottages to larger custom homes; some with private docks or direct bank access where permitted.
- Lifestyle: views and water access are the draw. Expect added due diligence on flood risk and shoreline rules.
What to expect on price and demand
Homes with direct trail access, unobstructed greenbelt frontage, or river views often command a proximity premium. Village homes and riverfront parcels tend to be lower inventory and can move quickly. Subdivisions a short drive from trailheads usually offer broader selection. Buyers drawn to these areas often prioritize outdoor recreation and everyday access to nature.
Key due diligence for park and river proximity
Floodplains and wetlands
The Huron River corridor includes parcels with FEMA floodplain or floodway designations. Before you buy, check the exact parcel in FEMA’s National Flood Hazard Layer to understand insurance requirements and buildable areas. For wetlands and shoreline work, review Michigan EGLE rules.
- Check flood zones by parcel: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer
- Review state wetlands and shoreline regulations: Michigan EGLE
Trail easements and access
If a path looks like a backyard shortcut, confirm whether it is public, an easement, or private. Easements can shape fencing, landscaping, and maintenance obligations. Use county parcel tools to review recorded documents and boundaries.
- Research parcel boundaries and map layers: Washtenaw County MapWashtenaw GIS
Zoning and conservation
Local zoning controls use, setbacks, and accessory structures. Some parcels near parks include conservation easements that limit development permanently. Contact local offices for guidance before planning additions or outbuildings.
- City resources and local parks info: City of Dexter
- Township services and ordinances: Dexter Township
Parking and peak times
High-use trailheads and park lots can be busy on weekends, especially in summer. If you want quieter outings, consider properties near smaller access points or neighborhood greenways rather than major trailheads.
Insurance and maintenance
Riverfront homes may require flood insurance and occasional shoreline maintenance. Homes abutting parks or trails should be checked for shared fences, boundary trees, and any local vegetation rules that could affect upkeep.
Smart search strategies
If living near parks and trails is a priority, structure your search around access rather than only ZIP codes.
- Draw proximity filters. Target homes within a half mile to 2 miles of Hudson Mills or along the B2B corridor.
- Include riverfront filters. If your MLS search supports it, filter for waterfront or Huron River frontage.
How we help: our team can set up tailored IDX/MLS saved searches around trailheads and river segments, flag floodplain overlays early, and coordinate conversations with local administrators on setbacks, docks, or shoreline work. We also create efficient tour plans that pair potential homes with nearby trailheads so you can experience the lifestyle as you evaluate each property.
Quick resources
- Regional park maps and rules: Hudson Mills Metropark
- Official trail maps and updates: Border-to-Border Trail
- River access and paddling guidance: Huron River Watershed Council
- City services and local parks: City of Dexter
- Parcel maps and layers: Washtenaw County MapWashtenaw GIS
- Floodplain viewer: FEMA NFHL
- State environmental rules: Michigan EGLE
Ready to narrow in on the neighborhoods that fit your outdoor routine? Let’s pair your wish list with the right parks, trail segments, and river access so you can make a confident move. Connect with the local experts at Charles by Reinhart to start your tailored search.
FAQs
How close are Dexter’s best trails and parks to downtown?
- Many established Border-to-Border Trail segments and Huron River access points are a short bike or car ride from downtown Dexter, and Hudson Mills is a short drive to the west or northwest depending on your route.
Are there riverfront homes in Dexter, and what do they cost?
- Yes, options range from modest river cottages to larger estates. Riverfront typically carries a premium over interior lots, influenced by lot size, condition, views, and access.
Are homes near trails noisy or crowded?
- It varies by location. Major parks and popular trailheads can see weekend crowds and parking pressure, while many greenway-adjacent streets remain quiet outside peak times.
Do Huron River properties require flood insurance?
- Possibly. Requirements depend on the property’s FEMA flood zone designation and your lender. Check the exact parcel in the FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer.
Can I build a dock or do shoreline work on the Huron River?
- Shoreline and dock work is regulated. Consult township officials and review Michigan EGLE rules to understand permits and setbacks before planning any project.
Will living near the Border-to-Border Trail help me commute to Ann Arbor?
- In areas where B2B segments are completed and continuous, some residents use the trail for bicycle commuting. Confirm the specific segment connections and crossings along your intended route.
