Hiking, Biking Trail Proposed Around Hardy Dam Pond

Hardy Dam Pond is an impoundment of the Muskegon River, roughly between Stanton and Newaygo (Google Maps)

based on a news article on M-Live

Hardy Dam Pond was created in 1937 when the dam was constructed on the Muskegon River to provide hydroelectric power. Typically, surrounding land was purchased to prevent other utilities from building additional dams. But in the 1960s when hydro-electric projects were brought under federal licensing rules, the area was opened to public use. This has primarily meant that boaters and anglers had access to the water. The land itself receives little use.

That is about to change. A shoreline trail for hiker and mountain bikers may be built creating a loop around the 3,900-acre lake. Most of the property is owned by Consumers Energy. The trail is the brain child of Big Prairie Township supervisor David Wright, and enthusiastic backpacker. He is working with local business interests, the Michigan State University Extension and Consumers Energy to develop the project.

Wright says the land has hills, ravines and wetland areas, and claims that it is "some of the best forest hiking to be found south of Ontario."

Backpacking would be encouraged, although overnights would need to be spent in the developed campsites. Consumers Energy does not have the resources to police backcountry camping.

Consumers Energy is forwarding the proposal to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Wright predicts that the trail can be built for less than $50,000, using volunteers to do much of the work. Local governments, businesses and foundations have expressed interest in aiding with funding. If the project is federally approved, trail construction could begin as early as summer 2010.

Hardy Dam Pond is an impoundment of the Muskegon River where it runs northeast to southwest roughly between Stanton and Newaygo.

See Newaygo State Park
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'Backpacking' Book Loaded with Maps, Photos

The following is an excerpt from a story which we believe is worthy of reading, but would lose too much of its value if it were re-written for presentation on this blog. Please link through for the rest of the story, but hurry back! ... Editor

by Howard Meyerson

"There are all types of books about trails in Michigan, but if you are looking for a book about where to go backpacking, go no further than "Backpacking in Michigan" by Jim DuFresne.

Spring may be six weeks away, but it's not too early to start planning, particularly if you have aspirations to walk some of the longer or more challenging trails in the state.

DuFresne's new book will be of service to both novice and experienced backpackers. It is a practical and useful resource ... "

finish the story at the Grand Rapids Press - see FAIR USE notice.
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Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch