Petoskey to Go to Trial for Miracle Mile Easement

photo of the washout at the time of the event (photo from City of Petoskey)

from Bridge Michigan

The fate of the Little Traverse Wheelway that has been washed out since 2020, known as the "Miracle Mile" is still not settled.

Property owners, Gustav and Courtney Lo, sued the city for lack of maintenance on the easement and requested the easement be revoked and the property rights returned to them.

But Petoskey will fight to keep public access to the section of trail that runs from Harbor Springs to Petoskey. The council decided Tuesday at a special meeting to reject a settlement agreement for a lawsuit that could have put trail access at risk.

They will take the issue to trial. If the city loses in court, they might need to repair the section-- with a potential $20 million cost-- on a timeline determined by the court. But the city believes their risk of losing the lawsuit is minimal.

If the city wins, they will retain the easement and will be able to do the repairs on their own timeline, probably determined by fundraising due to the high cost of stabilization of the right of way.

Several portions of the 26-mile Little Traverse Wheelway — of which the Miracle Mile is a part — run through private property that the public is allowed to access through easement agreements. An eroded section collapsed in 2020 and has remained closed since.

See Petoskey Moves to Preserve Little Traverse Wheelway
See Interlochen Public Radio article


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73K Acres, Mt Arvon Protected in UP

Michigamee Highlands view (photo from Michigan DNR)

from Michigan DNR

This is obviously not in west Michigan, but it is huge news for state recreation, protecting an important landmark.

The Michigan DNR has secured a $20 million conservation easement to permanently protect 73,000 acres in the Michigamme Highlands, guaranteeing public access to the Upper Peninsula wilderness and the summit of Mt. Arvon. Mt. Arvon is the traditional high point of the state, although recent surveys suggest that Mt. Curwood is inches higher.

The summit of Mt. Arvon will never be logged, preserving it to become old growth forest. The remainder of the acres will be managed for sustainable forestry. Michigamme Highlands includes more than 37 miles of rivers, 220 miles of perennial and intermittent streams, 96 ponds and lakes and over 13,600 acres of wetlands.

Lyme Timber, owner, says this conservation easement protects the land from being divided – it can not be parceled off and sold away in small tracts.

The conservation easement will ensure permanent public recreational access to these lands for hunting, fishing, kayaking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, designated ORV use, camping and hiking. The property shares 70 miles of border with state and federal lands.

See info and map


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Watch for Spring Lake Trail Excavation

utility excavation on Spring Lake Trail (photo from Spring Lake Township)

a news release of Spring Lake Township

Work is cruising along on the new multi-use trail on Hickory Street, from Fruitport Road to 148th Ave.

As part of this project, utility pipes will be laid beneath the trail, requiring considerable excavating as the path is cut.

What's to come: An 8' wide nonmotorized pathway on the south side of the road, with pedestrian crossings at Fruitport Road and 148th Avenue. Project includes ditch filling, storm sewer installation, tree removal, and driveway crossings. Construction is anticipated to take approximately 4 weeks. Work will generally be conducted between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday.

See Spring Lake Township Non-Motorized trail plan


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DNR Announces Federal Grants for Tree Planting

young trees (photo from Michigan DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Program is a federally funded program providing technical, educational and grant assistance to communities, nonprofits, educational institutions and tribes to build capacity for managing trees and forests in communities throughout the state.

“Trees are essential community infrastructure, and this grant program helps extend their many benefits to more Michigan communities,” said Kerry Gray, DNR Urban and Community Forestry Program grant specialist.

Trees play an essential role in improving the quality of life for Michigan residents. They boost air quality, cool our communities, lower energy costs and help manage stormwater. Trees also support the mental and physical well‑being of people who enjoy their shade and beauty, contributing to healthier, more resilient communities across the state.

The grants were awarded to 15 communities and organizations benefiting more than 1.5 million Michigan residents. The grantees will collectively plant and care for more than 1,200 trees, create inventories of city trees and develop plans to sustainably manage over 2,000 public trees.

The following projects in west and central Michigan received money:
• City of Albion: $75,000 for street tree planting, care and maintenance.
• City of Benton Harbor: $75,000 for street tree planting, care and maintenance.
• Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy: $75,000 for public tree planting and care.
• Village of Shelby: $20,345 to complete a public tree inventory and management plan to guide tree planting and maintenance activities in the village.
• City of Three Rivers: $75,000 for public tree planting and care to replace trees lost to the spring 2026 tornado.

See full news release


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Sparta Land Swap Will Create Trailhead

Sparta land being swapped (photo from Sparta Informed)

from Sparta Informed

The Village of Sparta, Michigan, has secured public access to more than 100 acres of parkland along the Rogue River through a property swap with a local business owner that will cost taxpayers nothing.

The Rogue River Park has long sought a way to create a trailhead with better services including a rest room and public river access. When the private owner of the property expressed an interest in buying the former ambulance building on Garner Street, the village suggested a swap.

The 101-acre property has sat vacant for 30 years and includes a large wetland area that supports the Rogue River. Property owner Chad Momber is paying an additional balance to the village for the larger building. The property already has a small building and parking area which can be easily repurposed for the trailhead.

Village Manager Jim Lower said the access may be open to the public as early as this fall.

See Fox 17 article


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Mason County Campground Trail Section Construction Begins

approximate route of the trail (from Google imagery with overlay)

from Mason County Press

Construction will begin this week on 1.1 miles of paved, non-motorized trail between Mason County Campground, through the Mason County Picnic area, to the Lake Michigan Overlook at the Consumers Energy Pumped Storage Project. The water body in the image above is the Consumers Energy pumped storage Lagoon bounded by Chauvez Road and Lakeshore Drive, south of Ludington, Michigan.

This is one link toward the long-term goal of connecting Ludington State Park to Pentwater on the Mason County Multi-Use Trail. $400,000 of the $1.1 million project is coming from the Michigan Natural Resouces Trust Fund.

During construction, the existing natural surface path will be closed. The portion north of Chauvez Road will be completed first, but the hope is to have the trail open before winter.

Mason County Campsite offers 56 sites. The radio-controlled airplane club operates Hull Field along the route. The picnic grounds and playground are adjacent to an excellent disc golf course.

See Mason County


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Pentwater-Hart Trail Phase 2 Funded

Pentwater Hart Trail

a news release of Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance

After nearly five years of planning, revisions, and perseverance, the Pentwater Hart Trail is celebrating a major milestone.

The City of Hart has been awarded Safe Routes to School funding for Phase 2 of the Pentwater Hart Trail. This project will extend the trail through the City of Hart, connecting to the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail and providing a safer route past the Hart school campus. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027.

The award marks an important step toward the group's long-term vision of creating a continuous shared-use trail connecting Hart and Pentwater. Planning is already underway for Phase 3, a 5.2-mile segment that will complete the connection.

See Pentwater Hart Trail


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Big Rapids Clay Cliff Trail Receives Grant

concept of accessible trail at Clay Cliffs (graphic from Independence Township Parks and Recreation)

Big Rapids, Michigan, has received a $391,400 Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grant for Clay Cliffs trail which will involve the development of a ¾ mile universally accessible non-motorized waterfront trail within the Clay Cliffs Natural Area. The city will provide $167,800.

Clay Cliffs includes approximately 69 acres which currently includes unimproved nature trails that wind through forest and along Mitchell Creek. The new trail will be a loop, crossing Mitchell Creek twice.

Plans call for two footbridges, accessible overlooks, benches, interpretive signs and bird-information displays. The route is expected to support hiking, walking, biking, fishing, birdwatching and snowshoeing, creating a recreation corridor that can serve visitors across multiple seasons.

See Clay Cliffs Trails


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Lost Nation Bridge on the NCT

Enjoy this slide presentation of the building of a long-awaited bridge in the Lost Nation State Game Area on the North Country Trail. Click to view.



See Chief Baw Beese Chapter of the NCTA


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New Flint State Park Opens

Flint State Park (photo from Michigan DNR)

compiled from several sources

Related to yesterday's post about the Grand Traverse Greenway Trail, one end of that trail will be at the new Flint State Park.

A new state park is open in Flint, and it will energize the riverfront, create more diverse recreation opportunities and bring economic benefits to the city. The 230-acre state park is located along a three-mile stretch of the Flint River and a section of Swartz Creek. This is Michigan’s 104th state park and the very first in Genesee County.

Five park units - Chevy Commons, Mott Park Recreation Area, Riverbank Park, Vietnam Veterans Park and Happy Hollow Nature Area - and connector trails are being linked.

The plan includes the addition of a signature play garden on the east end of Chevy Commons where Swartz Creek drains into the Flint River. Some sections of the park are open, and work is underway on the site.

Genesee County Parks manages and maintains the site in partnership with the DNR, which provides high-level oversight. A permanent endowment was established through a generous collaboration with the C.S. Mott Foundation.

See Flint State Park


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Flint Begins Construction of Regional Trail

construction of Grand Traverse Greenway (photo by Jenifer Veloso)

compiled from several sources

Work has begun on the Grand Traverse Greenway Trail in Flint, Michigan. Phase one of this trail segment will start at Kearsley Street, connecting to the new state park in Flint, and end at Fenton Road near I-69. The first phase is expected to be completed by the end of September.

This project is one part of the Mott Foundation’s commitment to help expand non-motorized trails in Flint and Genesee County over the next five years. It is also part of the statewide Iron Belle Trail that spans 2,000 miles from Detroit to the Upper Peninsula.

The name, Grand Traverse Greenway, is confusing, but the trail follows a street of that name. This is not in Grand Traverse County.

The Mott Foundation has committed $25 million to support what may become a 364-mile regional trail system. The commitment supports a new strategic trails plan that the Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission developed in partnership with local municipalities and with community input.

See Mott Foundation


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Big Rapids Adaptive Playground

adaptive swing dedication at Hemlock Park (photo from Big Rapids Facebook)

compiled from several sources

Big Rapids, Michigan, has opened the newly refurbished Hemlock Park area with the dedication of the Daniels Family adaptive playground.

Last year, Big Rapids added pickleball courts and an accessible kayak launch. Other areas of the park were also updated.

Most recently, a splashpad and accessable playscape have been added. Pictured above is an adaptive swing which accomodates wheelchairs. Families who have children with mobility issues actively seek out playgrounds where their youngsters can enjoy the outdoors and increased opportunities for exercise.

The community is certain that these additions will both benefit residents and draw tourists to the area.

See Big Rapids Hemlock Park


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Dreyer's 22-Mile Swim for Veterans

Jim Dreyer towing cannonballs (photo from M-Live by David Volk)

compiled from several sources

Jim Dreyer, who in 1998 became the first person to swim across Lake Michigan, continues to be an ultra swimmer at age 62. This weekend, he set a goal to swim 22 miles towing 250 cannonballs to bring attention to both the 250th birthday of the United States and the 22 veterans who commit suicide every day.

He began the swim in Lake Michigan at 4 pm Friday. His goal was to end at Whitehall’s Goodrich Park, for the White Lake Area Maritime Festival. The cannonballs will be used to build a veterans' memorial.

The swim went off course, and in order to complete it on time for the festival, Dreyer did adjust the route by getting in the escort boat for a correctional distance. Then he re-entered the water and completed the swim at 10:30 pm on Saturday.

All but one of the balls were in the towed dinghy. He carried one on his back in honor of his father, a WWII veteran. The total weight was 1500 pounds.

See Wood TV article


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Experience Silver Lake on Horseback

horseback riders at Silver Lake SP (photo from the Michigan DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

Experience Silver Lake State Park on horseback! As part of an ongoing effort to expand year-round recreation at Silver Lake, a shoreline horseback riding season takes place annually Nov. 1-30 (except Thanksgiving). This is at Silver Lake State Park, Oceana County, Michigan.

Equestrians can ride a predetermined route along Lake Michigan. A staging area, open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. is available.

Reservations open Sept. 1 at 8 a.m. at MiDNRReservations.com (use the equestrian tab and staging area filter) or call 1-800-447-2757. The cost is $10 per horse per day, with 125 slots available daily.


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Missing River Tubers Found Alive

rescued tubers (photo from Facebook)

compiled from several sources



Three people, two young women and a 9-year-old boy, have been found alive after being missing for three days.

They had been tubing on the Muskegon River (Michigan), but were floating in what were pool toys rather than tubes sturdy enough for river floating.

The father of one of the women reported them missing on Wednesday after she missed a medical appointment. He found their car with a broken window. It is unclear if that is related to the incident, but it caused speculation that there might have been foul play.

Their floats were found and a child's footprints, several miles downriver. A K-9 crew was brought in and the trio was located Friday afternoon about 0.75 mile from where the tubes were found in dense forest.

They apparently followed a trail from the river, but it led them deeper into the woods rather than to civilization.

Michigan State Police are happy to report this positive outcome.

Several other less spectacular rescues have taken place this week. Please plan well, check weather, increase your knowledge and recreate safely!

See WOOD TV report


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Dexter-Huron Metropark May Connect to VanCurler

Dexter-Huron Metropark (photo from Dexter-Huron Metropark, Creative Commons license)

from The Sun Times News

Although this is more eastern than western Michigan, celebrating connections that allow for longer adventures is something GOTC news always wants to do. These areas are northwest of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and this connection will add a spur to the Washtenaw County Border-to-Border trail that is in development. In a straight line, about a mile of land will be traversed by the trail.

In July, Scio Township voted to devote up to $11,000 for designing and engineering of a walking path to connect VanCurler Preserve and the Dexter-Huron Metropark.

Van Curler Preserve includes 90 acres with forests, wetlands, prairies and river bluffs. The trail connection will help alleviate cramped parking at Van Curler by providing an alternate access from the larger parking area in Dexter-Huron Metropark.

The new trail will also create a safer crossing of the Huron River.

See Border to Border Trail


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Onaway Trailhead Nears Completion

Onaway Trailhead (photo from Top of Michigan Trails Council)

a news release of Top of Michigan Trails Council

Onaway's great new trailhead on the North Eastern State Trail is still progressing and nearing completion. All the paving is complete and workers are putting the finishing touches on the open-air pavilion, which will also serve as the town's Farmers Market.

The North Eastern State Trail is a 70-mile rail-trail between Alpena and Cheboygan. It carries part of the Midland to Mackinac Trail. The surface is crushed limestone.

See North Eastern State Trail


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Betsie Valley Trail to be Upgraded

Thompsonville Junction (photo from Benzie County Museum)

compiled from several sources

The Betsie Valley Trail, Benzie County, Michigan, is to receive $1 million from MDOT for upgrades. Currently 22 miles long, from Frankfort, through Elberta and Beulah to Tompsonville, it follows the former Ann Arbor Rail bed.

A 4.1-mile stretch in Weldon Township through the Pere Marquette State Forest will be done at the east end of the trail at Thompsonville Junction.

The historical rail hub at Thompsonville Junction is being made into a bicycle campground, featuring a new pavilion, restrooms, and 10 updated campsites managed by the Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project.

More paving from Beulah to Case Road will be completed with a $400,000 state Spark grant and local matching funds. This will use a special snow-resistent asphalt.

Upgraded parking and new ADA-compliant vault toilets will improve mobility access and boat staging for the Betsie River at the River Road Access.

See M-Live Article


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Hemlock Crossing Trail Overview

a Hemlock Crossing trail (photo by jhy)

by jhy

I had the opportunity to hike just over 5 miles at Hemlock Crossing this week, and it's definitely a great place for various levels of difficulty, and potential lengths from quickie hikes to longer adventures.

Located just west of US 31 at West Olive, Michigan, the trail system includes a short accessible loop (the Meadow Loop), but it also connects to the paved Lakeshore Trail which runs for 20 miles connecting Grand Haven State Park with Holland State Park.

However, once you cross the Pigeon River on a wooden footbridge, the trails are natural surface, and only foot travel (includes skis and snowshoes) is allowed. Pets are allowed on leash. There are numerous loops you can follow to create your own custom hike. If you stay close to the river, the topography will be more level, but as you go away from the water, there are increasing hills. Most are only gently rolling. Junctions are numbered and well marked with maps and clear arrows leading to the next junction.

Pigeon River from a Hemlock Crossing trail (photo by jhy)

At the west end of the park, the trails connect with Pine Bend where there is also parking. Both a toilet house (seasonal) and a latrine are available at the Hemlock Crossing end. Pine Bend only has a latrine. Parking at both locations is free.

The fact that these parks connect means you have even more choices for trails and potential loops. Hemlock Crossing together with Pine Bend provide over 12 unique miles of trail. Almost all the trails are wooded with packed earth surface. There are some occasional areas of looser sand and a few bridges and boardwalks. There are numerous observation platforms near the river, and benches for resting.

There is also a canoe/kayak launch to paddle the Pigeon River. This is a short river entirely within Ottawa County (note- there are five Pigeon Rivers in Michigan).

A public observatory is open for sky viewing every Friday night.

overview map- see pdf map link below (photo by jhy)

From March 1 - October 15 the hours are 7am to 10pm, and from October 16 - February 28 trails are open 7am to 8pm.

See pdf map of the area


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Grand River Drowning Victim Recovered

Grand River search (still from a WZZM video)

compiled from various sources

A 60-year-old man attempted to swim across the Grand River in Kent County, Michigan, on Friday July 31. During the swim, he disappeared and emergency personnel were called.

The search was called off at dusk.

On Saturday, at approximately 2:00 p.m., the Kent County Sheriff's Office Dive Team located the victim approximately 15 feet out from the western riverbank, about one-quarter mile downstream from where he was last seen in the water.

The incident occurred near Johnson Park. Grandville Deputy Chief Darin Rietman encourages swimmers to take precautions in the river. "Don't try to swim across the Grand River, that current can be unpredictable, can be strong," Rietman said. There is also a lot of debris.

See WZZM TV


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Formerly White Mountain Preserved as Chigidaaki

the Chigidaaki reserve (photo from the Little Traverse Conservancy)

from M-Live

The area formerly known as White Mountain is now protected since the Little Traverse Conservancy purchased the land in May 2025.

This 654-acre reserve in Charlevoix County, Michigan, will host a trail network. Existing two-track roads will be converted to a non-motorized trail system. The trails include grand views of Boyne City and Lake Charlevoix. Signage will be added, but visitors at the present time should use some other method of wayfinding.

Visitors to Chigidaaki can use the existing two tracks to experience the reserve’s hilly hardwood terrain, large open meadows and sweeping views of Lake Charlevoix and Boyne City.

Chigidaaki is Anisinaabemowin for Place of the Big Hill. A major donor worked with the Little Traverse Bay Band of the Odawa Indians to create the name.

Even more amazing, the reserve abuts more that 100,000 acres of state land, including the Pigeon River Country State Forest, and Gaylord State Forest. This will provide habitat for animals that need a large territory such as black bears and bobcats.

See more at M-Live


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Kayak Launch on Shiawassee to Open

graphic from Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative

from Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative

Months of effort to improve access to the Shiawassee River is resulting in a sustainable and safe access point near Linden, Michigan.

The location has been used for years to access the river but without any sort of infrastructue to make the access less challenging. Instead of a steep bank and roadside parking, there will be off-raod parking and a stable, well-designed entry point to the river.

"The Hogan Road launch is the perfect exit point after an hour-and-a-half trip from downtown Linden—the perfect length for families with young children and 'newbies.' It is also the gateway to the rest of the river," said Maggie Yerman, a dedicated Keepers of the Shiawassee member.

An official ribbon cutting will be September 1, 2026

See more at Community Foundation of Greater Flint


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Ottaway Crossing Footbridge Seeks Expanded Access

Ottaway Crossing Footbridge (photo from Grand Traverse Conservation District)

from Grand Traverse Conservation District

The Ottaway Crossing Footbridge created a new connection across the Boardman-Ottaway River. Now, a $50,000 matching challenge from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation gives the Grand Traverse Conservation District the opportunity to make that connection accessible to even more people. The fund matching lasts only through today, July 31, 2026.

The plan is to create a universal-access trail loop and a first-of-its-kind river viewing space on the east side of the river at the Natural Education Reserve. It will also support the restoration of sensitive areas surrounding the bridge, protecting the landscape, while expanding opportunities for education, recreation, and connection with the outdoors.

The Grand Traverse Conservation District recently installed this 160-foot pedestrian bridge that spans the Boardman-Ottaway River at the location of the former Sabin Dam on Grand Traverse County’s Natural Education Reserve. With over 20,000 visitors at the Natural Education Reserve a year, this bridge, named the Ottaway Crossing, provides the critical connection between miles of popular recreational trails on both sides of the Boardman-Ottaway River, including the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails, Inc.’s (TART) Boardman-Ottaway River Trail that extends 24 miles into the river valley. This trail is part of a larger 41+ mile loop that connects the recently completed Boardman Lake Loop Trail, East Creek Reserve Trails, Brown Bridge Quiet Area, Muncie Lakes Pathway, North Country Trail, Vasa Pathway, and the TART.

Your support can make all the difference! Contribute today to see the Universal Access Trail Loop on the east side of the Boardman-Ottaway River come to life!

Donate Here

See more about the Ottaway Crossing Footbridge


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South Haven Area Emergency Services Rescues

ropes being deployed for Kal-Haven cyclist rescue (photo from South Haven Area Emergency Services)

from South Haven Area Emergency Serives

One rescue reported here took place on private property, but for the second time this month the ropes rescue team has been able to successfully bring a victime to safety.

On July 9, a cyclist went off the Kal-Haven Trail and slid 20-25 feet down a slope into a ravine. Emergency personnel stabilized the patient, deployed rope systems to haul them back to the trail, and used a UTV to transport them roughly half a mile to a waiting ambulance where the person was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries

This week, a person fell off a lift designed to carry people up and down a 100-foot Lake Michigan dune. In this case, the victim was placed in a stokes basket, lowered to lake level and then brought back to the top of the dune for transport. The injuries were not life-threatening. However, the resuce took 10 people and more than an hour to accomplish.

This article is a reminder that emergency personnel are highly trained to assist those in need. However, staying safe in the first place is always a good practice.

See article about Kal-Haven rescue


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Johnson Park Trailhead Improvements in Kent County

Johnson Park Trailhead of Grand River Greenway (photo from Carbon Stories)

from Kent County Parks Department

Johnson Park, Kent County's western Grand River Greenway trailhead is being improved. Changes include:
• A brand-new, four-season restroom
• A new playground
• Covered gathering spaces
• A trailhead for the new mountain bike trail system

Kent Trails is a 15-mile, non-motorized paved trail that is a collaborative effort between Kent County Parks, the cities of Grand Rapids, Grandville, Walker and Wyoming, and Byron Township.

Traveling through these six jurisdictions, the trail follows abandoned railroad lines, surface streets, and easements to provide a linear parkway stretching from John Ball Park and Millennium Park to Byron Center.

Four main trailheads provide access to the trail. At the north end, the North Millennium Trailhead is at the northernmost end of Millennium Park, near the John Ball Zoo. At the south end, there's a trailhead in Byron Center on 84th Street Along the way, spur trails lead to trailheads at Johnson Park and Douglas Walker Park. You can also access the trail at any cross street along the route.

The new Johnson Park Trailhead is expected to open this fall

See Kent Trails


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White Pine Trail Gets New Bridge at Paris

White Pine bridge at Paris, MI (photo from Friends of the White Pine Trail)

from West Michigan Trails

Two skilled crane operators swung two multi-ton bridge pieces which were then connected to form a 90 ft. bridge over Buckhorn Creek in Paris. This is on the 92-mile White Pine multi-use trail, as it passes through the village of Paris, Michigan.

The Buckhorn Dam, a failing culvert and tons of dirt were removed prior to placing the bridge sections. It will be several more weeks before work is complete and the bridge will be open for use.

Several historic sites are nearby including a 125-year-old ice house and Michigan's second fish hatchery, built in 1884.

Interpretation will be completed next summer, and the town's replica of the Eiffel Tower has already been moved to a location adjacent to the trail. The tower was constructed from bed frames originally used by hatchery employees.

See Buckhorn Dam to Be Removed


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More NCT May Come Off Road Near Lowell

possible trail corridor (photo from North Country Trail Association)

a news release of North Country Trail Association

For 20+ years, alongside the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the North Country Trail Association has been eyeing a retired railroad corridor outside of Lowell, Michigan. The NCTA's goal is to utilize it to move more North Country Trail off-road.

Now, thanks to this dedicated partnership between the Association, DNR, MDOT, and Kent County Parks Department, as well as the generosity of a private donor, we're making significant strides toward making this dream a reality.

This spring, partners led NCTA and National Park Service staff on a tour of various segments along this route. When complete, 5.5 miles of NCT will be moved off-road, allowing trail users to wander more safely across this scenic farmland. From the MDOT side, this project will help develop a multi-use, non-motorized trail closing the last unfunded gap in the 125-mile Fred Meijer Mid-West Michigan Regional Trail network, allowing for uninterrupted use across six counties from Owosso to Lowell to Greenville to Alma.

See North Country Trail Association


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Attend Virtual Planning for Interlochen State Park

Interlochen State Park (photo from the Michigan DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

Join the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at a virtual public meeting 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, to learn about and share feedback on a new draft general management plan for Interlochen State Park in Grand Traverse County.

At the meeting, DNR staff will present an overview of the draft plan, proposed park improvements and the planning process, followed by an opportunity for people to ask questions and provide comment. Advance meeting registration is required.

For those unable to attend, the meeting will be recorded and posted online approximately one week after the event. An interactive public input survey is also available through Aug. 23 for people to provide feedback.

The DNR uses general management plans to define a long-range planning and management strategy that protects the resources of a park while addressing recreation and education needs and opportunities.

Register for the planning meeting


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Possible Leakage at Hodenpyl Dam

Hodenpyl Dam and Pond

mostly from M-Live

The severe flooding this spring has changed the condition of many of the dams that Consumers Energy has been trying to sell to a third party, and is one of the factors affecting the status of that salw. One of the potential problem areas is at Hodenpyl Dam near Mesick, Michigan, on the Manistee River.

There are potential leaks, sinkholes and damage to sheet piling at Hodenpyl. Inspection could require shutting off the flow of water, and dewatering parts of the river. This could impact fish and other aquatic wildlife, as well as recreation. The inspection is being delayed until August as Consumers Energy contemplates a way to keep some water flowing downstream during that time.

Dam failure is not considered a concern, but inspection and repairs do need to take place soon. Consumers is recommending the condition be checked before fall.

Hodenpyl impounds 2025 surface acres of water, and is considered "high hazard," because failure is likely to cause property damage and death. The dam pond and the Manistee River are high value recreation venues. A portion of the North Country Trail closely follows the shore of the pond.


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Alpine Firefighters Use what3words to Rescue Cyclist

recue in progress (photo from Alpine Firefighters)

from Alpine Firefighters Association

Alpine Township Fire Department (Kent County, Michigan) responded this week to a report of an injured mountain biker on the Perrin Flow Trail of the Wahlfield Park trail system. This is in a remote section of the park and is not easily reached by traditional emergency apparatus.

The location of the injured cyclist was pinpointed using what3words. This location system divides the globe into 3-meter squares each with a unique address consisting of three words.

Kent County Sheriff's Office dispatch relayed that location to responding crews in real time. Alpine Firefighters determined the fastest entry point to reach the victim, always a challenge in remote locations. Advanced Life Support personnel assesed and treated the patient before transporting to a hospital.

The ATVs used to reach the site were received through the Firehouse Subs Foundation grant program. The department states that this is a good example of layering technology with traditional radio communication to locate and aid the injured person in a timely manner.


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Kent County Dog Park Opens

aerial view of Kent Co. Dog Park (photo from Wahlfield Construction)

from Kent County Parks

The new Kent County, Michigan, 10-acre, fully fenced, off-leash dog park will open Friday, July 24, 2026. A grand opening celebration is planned for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wahlfield Park - North, located at 7117 M-37 in Comstock Park.

A facility of this size dedicated to dog recreation is highly unusual. Ben Swayze, director of the Kent County Parks Department, said, “Wahlfield Dog Park fills a need we've heard from the community for years.”

The park is completely enclosed and features
• a swimming pond with jumping dock (for dogs only)
• a 1-acre area for small dogs
• a 2-acre open activity field
• crushed stone walking trails through natural areas
• a four-season family restroom with a dog wash station

The park hours will be from 7 am until sunset.

Dogs must be spayed/neutered to use the facility. Complete rules can be found at the link below.

See Kent County Parks


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Rabid Bat Found in Ottawa County

bat (photo from Michigan Field Guide)

from M-Live

Ottawa County (Michigan) Department of Public Health has announced the first case of rabies in the county this year in any species of animal. No human cases have been reported to date.

Bats are most active from May through September, and people should take precautions. Any scratch or bite should prompt capture of the animal for testing. Finding a bat in a room where people have been sleeping or finding a bat in a room with people such as children or the infirm who cannot clearly communicate any interactions should cause concern.

Do not release of dispose of the bat. Confine or collect the bat and contact your local health department so it can be tested. Rabies is curable if treatment begins before symptoms begin.

So far in 2026, Michigan has found 22 cases of animals with rabies.

See Bat in Emmet County Tests Positive for Rabies


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Wildwood Harbor Nature Area Expands

Wildwood Harbor Nature Area (photo from Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy)

from M-Live

The Walloon Lake, Charlevoix County, Michigan, Association and Land Conservancy has just expanded its Wildwood Harbor Nature Area by 30 acres. This is now the largest property managed by that group.

The purchase links the land with other parcels forming a 285-acre block of protected land. The wetland and forested section, in the southern part of the Walloon Lake watershed is now permanently conserved.

Protection of the property will also maintain a high-quality wildlife corridor supporting species including black bear, bobcat, beaver, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, mink, and numerous species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and pollinators. WLAC plans to develop a comprehensive management plan for the property later in 2026 to guide long-term stewardship activities, forest management, wildlife habitat protection, and public access considerations.

The total project cost was $294,148. The acquisition was made possible in part through WLAC’s Land Protection Fund.

Wildwood Harbor supports hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, birding, kayaking and other quiet activities.

See Wildwood Harbor Preserve


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Musketawa Trail Upgrades Near Completion

newly paved Musketawa Trail (photo from West Michigan Trails)

from West Michigan Trails

The Musketawa Trail in Ottawa and Muskegon Counties, Michigan, is a 25-mile paved route that forms a connection leading to Grand Rapids and to the Lakeshore Trail.

Beginning in 2025, complete reconstruction began using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Most of the work will be completed by August 2026, with the exception of the Crockery Creek bridge. This may not be complete until mid-September, but users will be able to once again enjoy most of the trail. The new pavement is ten feet wide.

The planning for additional trail amenities is ongoing. The Friends group has made a memorial shelter project their priority and is raising funds. A comprehensive amenities plan is still in development

See Musketawa Trail


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Pentwater Junior Sailing Program Gets New Dock

building the new dock (photo from the Oceana Echo)

from Oceana Echo

The Pentwater (Michigan) Junior Yacht Club was the recipient of a new dock this week where they can store their boats.

Pentwater's Junior Sailing Program provides lessons to all youth. There is a sailor scholarship program for any student that may need help with the cost. The goal is to be sure all children have an opportunity to learn to sail. They also offer private lessons for adults and children under 8 years of age.

The previous deck was broken and the seawall was in bad repair, allowing water to erode the land behind it.

Contributions were provided by The Pentwater Lake Improvement Board, The Village of Pentwater, the Pentwater Service Club, and the Pentwater Junior Women's Club. The Service Club also provided labor as a great cost-saving measure.

Once plans were approved and the beach area re-graded, building the dock took only two days.

See Pentwater Junior Saliing Program


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Another Mosquito-Borne Hazard

mosquito (photo by mycteria)

compiled from several sources

Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department has confirmed Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV) in Michigan this year. The virus is mosquito-borne and causes Jamestown Canyon encephalitis.

The actual occurrance of the disease is quite rare and usually results only in mild flu or cold-like symptoms such as headache, sore throat, runny nose or cough. Some cases are totally asymptomatic.

In a few cases the progression will lead to nausea, vomiting, and fever. This can develop into meningitis or meningoencephalitis, both serious illneeses. Older persons or those with compromised immune systems are more susceptible. However, the CDC reports only 13 cases from 2000 to 2013.

The Environmental Health Division monitors mosquito populations in the Kalamozoo area and found the virus in a routine inspection.

Jamestown Canyon Virus is found throughout the United States, although it is not studied extensively since most cases are mild. Taking normal precautions against mosquito bites is recommended.

See WZZM article


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Ludington State Park Skyline Trail Will Be Rebuilt before Next Season

view from the Skyline Trail (photo by Steve Benoche- used with permission)

from the Ludington Daily News

Beginning in September, the Skyline Trail at Ludington State Park (Michigan) will be under reconstruction. A contract has been awarded to MIHM Enterprises for the large project.

The Skyline Trail is an elevated walkway that overlooks the southern dune portion of the park. It was originally built it 1979-80, and was constructed entirely of wood. The new trail will have steel support posts, and some sections will be even higher to allow the natural movement of sand.

Friends of Ludington State Park say this is one of the biggest projects they've undertaken. Over $350,000 was raised by the Friends. Another $50,000 came from Pennies From Heaven. The total cost of the project is $3.5 million, with the DNR picking up the bulk of the cost.

The project has been delayed from the original timetable, mostly due to engineering difficulties to bring the new trail up to current code standards while preserving the aspects that have made it a park favorite.

As pictured above, the trail has an En-Chroma viewer to enable color-blind persons to better enjoy the view, and that will be installed on the new walkway

The rebuilt trail is expected to be open in 2027.

See Friends of Ludington State Park


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What to Expect for Upcoming Air Quality

smoky haze in lower Michigan today (photo by jhy)

from Apostle Islands Facebook page

Almost every location in the United States east of Minnesota is experiencing air quality issues ranging from "Unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "Hazardous." This is due to smoke from wildfires in Canada and northern Minnesota. The fires were caused by lightning strikes. The entire Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is currently closed.

The downwind air quality may affect your decisions to recreate outdoors even in Michigan. In some cases, the smoke is so thick the air temperature is actually dropping.

There is unlikely to be any relief on Thursday with calm winds and still no rain.

Some chance of rain in the burning areas is in the forecast for Friday, but it may not be enough to put out the fires. However, it should scrub the air to some extent.

Only sustained rain will extinguish these fires, and until this happens, smoke will continue to affect Michigan off and on as winds shift and either carry smoke away or bring in even more.

See the link below for real time air quality anywhere in the U.S.

See real time air quality


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Hundred-Acre Wood Will Make 180 Acres Public

Hundred Acre Wood (photo from Little Traverse Conservancy)

from an article by M-Live

A 160-acre tract of land near Harbor Springs, Michigan, will be purchased by the Little Traverse Conservancy. They are currently raising the $3 million to make this a reality. An additional 20 acres will be donated by the Jeff Ford family, who has always called the property the "Hundred-Acre Wood," as in Winnie the Pooh.

The fundraising is already approaching $2.5 million, and if all goes well, the property could be open for skiing and snowshoeing this winter.

The West Traverse Township public trails abut the property on the west. All together, this will be 260 connected acres that will be available for public recreation and for wildlife. The ecosystem is primarily upland hardwoods.

Future plans could include a parking area, signage, and additional trails.

See maps of West Traverse Township Trails


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DNR Plans Auctions of Unnecessary Land

typical forested property (photo from Michigan DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

August land auctions help the DNR meet its mission to boost public recreation and protect natural resources. Nearly 100 parcels are available; sale proceeds will be used to acquire land that better fits the department’s outdoor recreation and conservation goals

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is busy preparing 97 properties for sale via online auctions later this summer. River frontage, lake frontage and forested acreage surrounded by private ownership — these characteristics describe some of the parcels that will be available Aug. 4-28.

Kerry Heckman, DNR forest lands and special projects administrator, said though it might seem counter-intuitive for the DNR to make any land available for sale, it’s important to note that the public benefit of some properties is severely limited. That’s due to factors such as lack of legal public access, size limitations that prevent appropriate public use, and development on adjacent privately owned land that negatively affects public use such as hunting.

"More importantly, the proceeds from our surplus-land sales are deposited into the Land Exchange Facilitation Fund,” Heckman said. “Those dollars are specifically used to acquire other properties that are more usable by residents and visitors, protect important natural resources and provide accessible, quality recreation opportunities throughout the state.”

Many of these properties are located in West Michigan. See complete listing and dates below.

See details of parcels


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