Gov. Rick Snyder proclaims Sept.

20-27 as Michigan Trails Week

Enjoy free vehicle admission to state parks on Sept. 27

Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2014

LANSING, Mich. Gov. Rick Snyder has proclaimed Sept. 20-27 as Trails Week in Michigan. The
week celebrates Michigans more than 12,000 miles of trails and waterways.
Michigans trail system is one of our states real jewels, Snyder said. It provides unlimited
recreational opportunities to people of all ages and skill levels. Being active outdoors is a great way
to stay healthy and celebrate our states beauty and abundant natural resources.
All weeklong statewide special events and volunteer opportunities will be hosted by local
communities and organizations in partnership with the Department of Natural
Resources (DNR), Michigan Recreation and Park Association and the Michigan Trails and
Greenways Alliance.
On Sept. 27, in celebration of National Public Lands Day the nations largest volunteer cleanup day
- Recreation Passports and vehicle entry fees will be waived at state parks and recreation areas,
state forest campgrounds, nonmotorized state trailhead parking, and state boat launches. In
addition, license requirements are waived for all off-road vehicles on Sept. 27 and 28. All other laws
and regulations must still be followed.
Michigan is a national leader in the number of miles of trails, said DNR Director Keith Creagh.
These trails help improve Michigans quality of life, support local economies and provide increased
opportunities to spend time with family and friends in Michigans out-of-doors.
Earlier this year Snyder signed legislation designating the Pure Michigan Trail Network. The
designation supports statewide development of existing trails and waterways allowing the director of
the DNR with approval of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to name Pure Michigan Tails,
Waterways and Trail Towns. The bills also expand volunteer activities to include trail upkeep and
maintenance programs.
Using these trails in the months before and after Michigan Trails Week is a key to fitness and well-
being, said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. Its an enjoyable, low-cost
way to experience the states natural resources while keeping healthy.
As Michigans trail system continues to grow and improve, a trail proposed by the governor in his
Energy and Environment Special Message will link existing trails connecting Belle Isle in Detroit to
Ironwood in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The statewide trail will provide year-round recreational
opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
The Pure Michigan Trails package will allow the best of the best of Michigan trails to be promoted
across the country on a par with all of our Pure Michigan attractions, said Nancy Krupiarz, executive
director of Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance. Its time that the No. 1 trails state elevate the
visibility of these assets for tourism and recreation.
For a current list of statewide Trails Week events visit www.michigan.gov/trailsweek.
If interested in hosting a Trails Week event visit www.michigan.gov/trailsweek for an event planning
toolkit. Send event photos and information to mitrailweek@gmail.com for a chance to have your
event featured on the DNR Trails Week webpage.
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