The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes Expanding its Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail Role
Organization Assuming Fiduciary Stewardship of the Trail’s Maintenance Funds from TART Trails
The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes is expanding its role with the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail by becoming the fiduciary steward of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (SLBE) trail maintenance funds. The Friends is assuming this role from TART Trails which has managed the funds since 2012.
“The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and TART Trails have worked together for over a decade to sustain the Heritage Trail, with each organization focusing on key aspects of maintaining the trail” said Laura Ann Johnson, Executive Director of the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. “As we make this transition, we are incredibly grateful for the efforts of TART Trails and its supporters in setting such a strong foundation in caring for this important asset of the park and we look forward to continuing this work for many years to come.”
“This feels like a natural and meaningful evolution, one that honors the incredible community of supporters who have sustained the trail while positioning future maintenance support with the organization most closely connected to enhancing the park and visitor experience,” said Julie Clark, CEO of TART Trails Inc.
Since the Heritage Trail opened in 2012, it has been used by over one million visitors, both local and from around the world. Many utilize the trail to experience the park with family and friends, becoming a vital part of visits to the Lakeshore.
“Since its inception, the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail has been an important part of the visitor experience to the Lakeshore,” said Scott Tucker, Superintendent of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. “We see visitors utilizing the trail to explore the park in a way that connects them deeply with nature and history. This experience wouldn’t have been possible without the partnership between the Friends and TART Trails. As the Friends take on a larger role, I want to recognize the efforts of TART Trails to support this vital experience.”
The Friends and TART have been partners with the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the Heritage Trail since its formation more than 14 years ago. Now spanning 22 miles, the trail provides a scenic pathway for cycling, hiking and skiing from Empire Township to Bohemian Rd.
Friends volunteers have maintained the trail year-round since 2012, clearing debris and safety hazards in the spring, summer and fall, and grooming the trail for cross-country skiing in the winter. The organization also offers volunteer trail ambassadors who provide assistance to Heritage Trail visitors and a wheelchair bicycle program to provide more access to the trail.
Friends will continue to seek donations to add to this maintenance fund to sustainably support the Heritage Trail needs for years to come, ensuring a four-season, world-class trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
To find out more about volunteer opportunities and how to support the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, visit https://www.friendsofsleepingbear.org/.