There’s still time to suggest a name for Michigan’s newest trail from Belle Isle Park in Detroit to Ironwood in the western Upper Peninsula, but don’t wait too long – the deadline is Monday, Oct. 13, 2014.
This landmark trail features a hiking and a bicycling route, both of which will connect existing trails in a more-than-1,000-mile trek across the state. The Department of Natural Resources already has received better than 5,000 submissions, including a number of duplicate suggestions.
People can submit their ideas online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/namethetrail, via Facebook at www.facebook.com/midnr, or by mailing in a paper entry form, which is available by visiting www.michigan.gov/dnrtrails and clicking “name the trail.”
“Judging by the quick response and the volume of entries already received, residents are passionate about Michigan’s trails and excited to be a part of this newest offering,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “If you have a good idea about what name would best capture the spirit and features of the Belle Isle to Ironwood trail, we want to hear from you.”
Submissions will be judged on creativity, originality and ability to capture the overall character of Michigan. Submissions also should portray the concept of connection, since this trail will link several existing trails and communities in a way that best showcases Michigan’s exceptional natural and cultural resources.
Names will be judged by a panel of representatives from the DNR, the Michigan Trails Advisory Council, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Recreation and Park Association, and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
The winner will be offered a choice of several vacation packages at locations along the trail:
- The Henry Ford Museum and Westin Book Cadillac in Detroit.
- The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
- The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Lodge in Ontonagon.
Runners-up also may be selected to win these prizes. In the case of multiple winning entries, names will randomly be drawn for the prize packages.
With the most rail-trail miles of any state and more than 12,000 miles of recreational trails serving a variety of users, Michigan’s acclaim as a national trails leader is well established. This new trail will further enhance Michigan’s reputation as a recreation leader, strengthen connections among communities, and provide new economic opportunities for businesses along the route.
For information about trail itself – including the draft route and frequently asked questions – or for more information about the naming contest, visit www.michigan.gov/dnrtrails.
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