LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced three trails and three communities have been recognized as Pure Michigan Trails and Pure Michigan Trail Towns.
In Western Michigan, the recognized trails include the Kal-Haven Trail in Van Buren and Kalamazoo counties. The announcement came last week.
“With four seasons of trail recreation fun available, Michigan truly is home to a variety of great trails and trail towns,” DNR state trails coordinator Paul Yauk said in a statement. “Today, we are excited to recognize some of the best that provide people with unique trails experiences every time they step outside.”
In regards to the selection of the Kal-Haven Trail, the DNR issued the following statement:
“The Kal-Haven is 33 miles long, linking the cities of South Haven and Kalamazoo via numerous bridges and small towns. The Kal-Haven Trail also is of historic interest; this past year, the Michigan History Center completed a project to install dozens of historic panels along the heritage trail.”
Michigan officials are excited for the new designation.
“Michigan is known for having thousands of miles of hiking, biking and kayaking trails, but the trails and communities that receive this designation are truly outstanding and embody what Pure Michigan is all about,” said David Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan. “We are pleased to partner with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to honor these trails and trail towns.”
According to the DNR, a Pure Michigan Trail is said to “provide access to national, state or regional scenic resources of high quality and splendor and capture the natural essence of Michigan.”
In order to qualify, a trail must be more than 1 mile in length, must be open to the public and must be substantially complete. They may or may not intersect with other trails.
More information about the designation awards can be found at the DNR website through this link.
