The Traverse City to Charlevoix Trail is now known as The Nakwema Trailway.

The Vision

WHERE PATHS CONNECT

The Nakwema (nah-KWAY-mah) Trailway is a generational investment in our region, our identity, our people, and our future. Nakwema — meaning "where paths connect" in Ojibwe — will provide critical non-motorized transportation and recreation infrastructure joining Charlevoix and Traverse City, in between, and beyond.

LEARN MORE HERE
Project Goals

1

Develop a non-motorized trailway between the TART Trails and the Top of Michigan Trails Council networks, connecting multiple communities and over twenty-five protected natural areas throughout three counties to create a 415+ mile trail network in northern Lower Michigan.

2

Create opportunities for everyone to participate in active living and healthy lifestyles through year-round outdoor recreation and active transportation, while providing access to the region’s iconic shoreline and showcasing the region’s phenomenal cultural and natural resources.

3

Provide an extraordinary resource for residents of and visitors to northwest Lower Michigan to spur economic development opportunities, enhance regional identity and strengthen vibrant communities.

October 5 @ 12:00 pm

Short’s Brewing – Production Facility

More event details
News & Updates
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SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 5th, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Short's Shortest Marathon on Sunday, October 5th, 2025, in beautiful Elk Rapids, Antrim! This unique event offers a hilarious twist on traditional marathons, featuring a challenging 262-foot dash around the Short's Brewing Company Pull Barn & Production Facility production campus. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to spend a day with friends, this "marathon" is the perfect opportunity to don your athletic gear and embrace the spirit of friendly competition.

Participants can look forward to a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and, of course, a bit of sweat. Everyone will receive a commemorative short-sleeved T-shirt, an aluminum race cup, and a bib number worthy of Instagram fame. With an aid station strategically placed at the course midpoint to keep you hydrated, finish line glory awaits you with cheers and high fives. Cap off this delightful event with a post-race celebration at a local watering hole, all while supporting a great cause—proceeds benefit the TART Trails' Nakwema Trailway Project. Don’t miss out on this chance to claim your bragging rights and enjoy a day of fun in Elk Rapids!

Registration opens on September 18th...
... See MoreSee Less

2 weeks ago
SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 5th, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Shorts Shortest Marathon on Sunday, October 5th, 2025, in beautiful Elk Rapids, Antrim! This unique event offers a hilarious twist on traditional marathons, featuring a challenging 262-foot dash around the Shorts Brewing Company Pull Barn & Production Facility production campus. Whether youre a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to spend a day with friends, this marathon is the perfect opportunity to don your athletic gear and embrace the spirit of friendly competition.

Participants can look forward to a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and, of course, a bit of sweat. Everyone will receive a commemorative short-sleeved T-shirt, an aluminum race cup, and a bib number worthy of Instagram fame. With an aid station strategically placed at the course midpoint to keep you hydrated, finish line glory awaits you with cheers and high fives. Cap off this delightful event with a post-race celebration at a local watering hole, all while supporting a great cause—proceeds benefit the TART Trails Nakwema Trailway Project. Don’t miss out on this chance to claim your bragging rights and enjoy a day of fun in Elk Rapids!

Registration opens on September 18th...

THANK YOU to the Torch Lake Community for showing up last night at the Talking Trails event at Torch Lake Café! We are so grateful for your time, thoughtful questions, and suggestions!

You all inspire us to connect these incredible communities from Charlevoix and Traverse City. Our partnership between TART Trails and Top of Michigan Trails Council is a special one.
... See MoreSee Less

4 weeks ago
THANK YOU to the Torch Lake Community for showing up last night at the Talking Trails event at Torch Lake Café! We are so grateful for your time, thoughtful questions, and suggestions!

You all inspire us to connect these incredible communities from Charlevoix and Traverse City. Our partnership between TART Trails and Top of Michigan Trails Council is a special one.Image attachmentImage attachment

Join the Nakwema Trailway team for the Talking Trails event tomorrow, August 19th, from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Torch Lake Café! We will kick off the short programming at 5:00!

We can't wait to see you there! Be sure to grab a drink or a bite to eat before, during, or after our gathering at Torch Lake Cafe!
... See MoreSee Less

4 weeks ago
Join the Nakwema Trailway team for the Talking Trails event tomorrow, August 19th, from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Torch Lake Café! We will kick off the short programming at 5:00!

We cant wait to see you there! Be sure to grab a drink or a bite to eat before, during, or after our gathering at Torch Lake Cafe!