What’s happening: Some good news for sledders both in-state and out arrived late last month as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the purchase of nearly 103 miles of snowmobile trail easements in Baraga and Marquette counties. Eight of those 103 miles will be designated as multi-use trails, allowing for activities that include off-road vehicle use, with the remaining 95 miles reserved for snowmobiles only.
Growing Michigan’s network: In total, the state has roughly 6,500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, approximately half of which are located in the Upper Peninsula. The DNR purchased
the nearly 103 miles of trail easements for $1.8 million from Lyme Great Lakes Timberlands, a L’Anse and Escanaba-based company.
“Trails are critical to the Upper Peninsula’s economy, and we are proud to partner with Lyme to secure these trails forever,” says Ron Yesney, the DNR’s Upper Peninsula trails coordinator. “Michigan is a leader in snowmobile access and use, continuing to grow its network of permanent trails.”
Why it’s important: Winter tourism is big business in Michigan.
According to a report from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) in November 2021, winter tourism generated $3.6 billion in traveler spending in the year 2020 alone.
What they’re saying: “Trail networks are integral to the economy of the Upper Peninsula and enjoy year-round use. We’re pleased to once again work with the DNR to provide permanent public access to the trail networks in Marquette and Baraga counties, which pass through some of the most scenic parts of the area,” says Bill O’Brion, general manager of Lyme Great Lakes Timberlands. “Our partnership with the DNR continues to grow and strengthen as we work together to protect the trail network across all of Lyme’s ownership in the Upper Peninsula.”
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