05 Jan Pure Michigan Trail, Trail Town Designations Up for Grabs

Applications are open for the Pure Michigan Trail and Trail Town Designation Program, a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Pure Michigan that’s designed to recognize Michigan’s best trails and trail towns while boosting the state’s position as the “Trails State.”

Pure Michigan Trails and Trail Towns promote healthy lifestyles, conserve natural resources and provide a catalyst for economic activity in local communities. Whether your local trail users are hiking, biking, riding or paddling, officials want to hear how your community provides a quality trail experience, ensuring safe and accessible recreational experiences provided to trail users year-round.

How to apply

Applicants must complete the application for designation and submit it, along with all required documentation, to the DNR state trails coordinator. Applications and information can be found in the program handbook.

Application deadline is Jan. 15, 2026.

Winners are announced during the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism held each spring.

Recipients receive:

• A letter from the DNR state trails coordinator and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the DNR and the applicant.
• A DNR press release announcing the designation.
• Pure Michigan incorporates the trail and trail towns into its maps and marketing material.
• Signage with branding is placed in appropriate locations by the designee.