In celebration of National Trails Day on Saturday, June 1, 2013, Northern Michigan state parks are offering a variety of events on the trails. Enjoy a guided hike, take a bike ride along the trail or help clean up the trails at one of these events, which showcase the beauty of Northern Michigan’s extensive trails system:
Saugatuck Dunes State Park (Allegan County)
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn about the native flora and fauna while hiking along the beautiful trails of Saugatuck Dunes. Afterwards, help preserve the natural beauty of the park by removing invasive garlic mustard plants. Meet at the main day-use area parking lot near the end of State Park Drive, off of 138th Street.
Van Riper State Park (Marquette County)
1-2 p.m. Join Van Riper State Park in celebrating National Trails Day! This guided hike will be the perfect opportunity for family and friends to explore the forest and enjoy some of Michigan’s wildlife. Participants should meet at the park picnic shelter at 1 p.m. For more information, please call Van Riper State Park at 906-339-4461.
The Recreation Passport is an easy, affordable way for residents to enjoy and support outdoor recreation opportunities in Michigan. By checking “YES” for the $11 Recreation Passport ($5 for motorcycles) when renewing a license plate through the Secretary of State (by mail, kiosk, online at www.expresssos.com or at branch offices), Michigan motorists get access to state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, non-motorized state trailhead parking and state boat launches. In addition, Recreation Passport holders can experience real savings at businesses and retailers that participate in the Passport Perks discount program. The Recreation Passport is valid until the next license plate renewal date. Nonresidents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($31.50 annual; $8 daily) at any state park or recreation area or through the Michigan e-Store at michigan.gov/estore.
Learn more about this creative way of sustaining Michigan’s outdoor recreation and natural resources at michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For information on Passport Perks shopping discounts or how businesses and retailers can enroll in the program, visit michigan.gov/passportperks.