Field Guide: Summer 2022

Exploring Michigan: Tips, trends, and tidbits.
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NEW TRAIL TOWNS

Big Rapids, Cadillac, and Elk Rapids were recently named Pure Michigan Trail Towns by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Travel Michigan. Big Rapids has developed a wayfinding signage system for local trails. Cadillac is a year-round destination that continues to invest in its many trail activities. Elk Rapids has formed a trail alliance to assist in supporting trail networks in the area. That community soon will be connected with Traverse City and Charlevoix via the Nakwema Trail. Search for trails at michigan.gov/dnr.


WATERY MISFORTUNES

A new book published by History Press, “Death & Lighthouses on the Great Lakes,” written by Gaylord author and frequent Michigan Blue magazine contributor Dianna Higgs Stampfler, blends maritime tales with true crime stories. Stampfler details how losing one’s life while tending the navigational beacons wasn’t such an uncommon experience. arcadiapublishing.com


PATHWAY OPENS

Half of the six-mile Ralph Wilson Gateway and Trail around Belle Isle in Detroit opened this spring along the eastern end of the island. It’s the official southern trailhead for Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail, a 2,000-mile route (almost 70 percent complete) that connects the island to Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula via two separate trails for hikers and bikers. The Wilson Gateway has a park/trail kiosk, picnic area, a new glass-and-steel sculpture, and more. michigan.gov/ironbelle

– Compiled by Ron Garbinski



Have news that pertains to Michigan travel and exploration? Send a note to MSwoyer@Hour-Media.com.

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