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Michigan History Center
EXPLORE HISTORY AND NATURE THROUGH MICHIGAN HERITAGE TRAILS
According to the Michigan History Center, “Heritage trails connect people with the natural and cultural heritage of the landscape they are passing through... For communities, heritage trail development can ignite pride, inspire learning, and promote preservation.”
That’s exactly what they do, not to mention all the benefits trail-goers experience: connection to history, get some exercise, experience Michigan’s past and present, encourage positive mental health. In this article, we will concentrate on some of the land-based heritage trails that communities have built together because of the significance.
HAYWIRE GRADE TRAIL
The state’s first rail trail – its 50th anniversary celebration occurred in 2020 – the Haywire Grade Trail is 32 miles of pristine beauty across part of the Upper Peninsula, from Intake Park in Manistique to Shingleton. According to the Michigan History Center, “The trail runs along the old Manistique and Lake Superior Railroad and has since been reclassified as a year-round, multi-use trail.... The heritage trail project includes a series of 11 historical interpretive kiosks that explore the natural and cultural history of the area.”
Trail-goers will find the surface to be a mix of sand, gravel, and coarse limestone, designed for snowmobiles and ATVs, but suitable for fat-tire biking. Of course, hiking is a must. There are a few trailheads to be aware of (information courtesy of the Michigan History Center):
• The northern trailhead on the east side of M-94 is just south of Shingleton. There is no parking, but spaces
are available east of the Tanglewood Restaurant and Antique Shop on M-28 in Shingleton, less than a quarter mile north of the trail.
• The Manistique Trailhead is located on the banks of the Indian River at Intake Park in Manistique (on Intake Park Road).
• The Jack Pine Trailhead is located at Jack Pine Lodge on M-94 (about halfway between Manistique and Shingleton).
Read the article on the MARVAC website for lots of details about the Haywire Grade Trail (www.michiganrvand campgrounds.org/outdoor-recreation-rail-trail-haywire- grade-trail/) and a link to the trail map.
RECYCLING IN AND AROUND STATE LAND
According to the Michigan DNR, “Nearly half of the waste cleaned up from dump sites in state forests has been recycled. Recycling is the preferred disposal method whenever possible. Metals, tires, bottles, and cans are the most common recyclable materials from cleanups.”
Green tips for your camping trip
• Pack your food in reusable containers to minimize package waste.
• Bring reusable water bottles instead of bottled water. Fill your reusable water bottle with water from home or a campground water source.
• Bring a bag to collect recyclables and either bring them home or deposit into park recycling containers.
• Bring reusable plates and silverware.
• Use biodegradable soaps.
• Be familiar with Leave No Trace principles.
Check www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources/ prd/parks/recycling for a complete list of state parks with recycling facilities.
What about private campgrounds? Or if you’re boondocking? You can still make an impact and choose to recycle.
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