MTGA’s Michigan Trails 2050 Summit July 8 in Gaylord

Imagine a Michigan where trails seamlessly connect communities, promote health and wellness, and fuel economic growth. This is the vision behind Michigan Trails 2050, a collaborative initiative led by the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance (MTGA) to create a roadmap for the future of trails in our state.

Trails are unique in the way that collaboration and coordination is required to plan, build, and promote sustainable use and maintenance. A statewide trail planning and public engagement effort at that scale last took place in 2007, creating the “Connecting Michigan” plan. This update to the plan will involve diverse stakeholders from across the state representing government, community organizations, businesses, and public and private funders.

As part of this statewide effort, we’re seeking to create space for better communication and coordination between public and private stakeholders, to build a shared plan and vision that integrates trails more effectively with local, regional, and state master plans.

MTGA is holding six regional summits across the state to bring together important perspectives from each part of Michigan. Each summit will include a trail experience, a panel of regional experts, and a featured speaker.

The nearest regional summit is July 8 at Treetops Resort in Gaylord.