This year has been a pivotal one for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. We hosted a series of well-attended open houses, happy hours, and fundraising gatherings that have kept our community engaged and excited about the Pathway to Good Harbor, and the connections it will bring. With over 85,000 annual visitors to the trail, we shared smiles with many of you as you enjoyed this incredible Pure Michigan® trail.
It was our hope that as you read this update, we would be in the midst of raising the final dollars to construct the Pathway to Good Harbor. Unfortunately, we have made the difficult decision to pause a crowdfunding campaign. We think it is wise to wait until we have a fully completed design of the Pathway to Good Harbor to share out in conjunction with our fundraisi ff
We remain hopeful that our co able to experience the norther National Lakeshore outside of beacon of inspiration for us, an trails in our region as a place w enjoy access to the incredible
We want to express our deepe gratitude for you all. Together we have built a strong commu that believes in the positive im we can create.
With hope and appreciation,
Carol Quarderer & Kerry Kelly Campaign Cabinet Co-Chairs
A TRAIL FOR GENERATIONS
The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail was created to provide a safe, accessible pathway to experience the extraordinary landscape that is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Pathway to Good Harbor, spanning over four miles, will increase critical non-motorized connections, offering more opportunities to experience the Lakeshore outside of your car.
Designated a Pure Michigan® trail, the Heritage Trail directly improves mental and physical health, and enhances overall quality life. Since its launch in 2010, communities have benefited from the economic, environmental, and public health benefits that the trail generates. The Heritage Trail provides low barrier, year-round opportunities for meaningful transportation and recreation, improving the vitality of northwest Lower Michigan.
Pathway to Good Harbor Goals
1. Increasing trail by 4.3 miles
2. Elevating accessibility of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
3. Showcasing unparalleled natural and cultural resources
PATHWAY TO GOOD HARBOR UPDATE
Project partners are closely collaborating with Michigan DOT and the National Park Service on the Pathway to Good Harbor's design. Simultaneously, NPS is in consultation with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and those discussions will play an important role in shaping the next steps of trail design.
Trail building can be a long and complex process, but we continue to prioritize collaboration, transparency, and staying true to the trail’s vision.
Project partners are committed to maintaining the highest design and construction standards and will adhere to the rigorous environmental regulations of the National Park Service and state agencies.
Project partners remain steadfast in our goal to complete the northern end of the Heritage Trail. Design efforts will align with the project’s overall vision of providing safe, meaningful connections for all users.
When the National Park Service is ready to present the final design to the public, we’ll re-engage our fundraising efforts to support the project. Your continued confidence in this important community project gives us the momentum to keep going. We will keep you apprised of project milestones and updates.
Please reach out with any questions to info@sleepingbeartrail.org or 231-941-4300.
