NAKWEMA TRAILWAY
The Nakwema (nah-KWAY-mah) Trailway spans over 45 miles, joining Charlevoix and Traverse City - in between and beyond. Nakwema, Ojibwe for “where paths connect,” follows long-ago established routes through the waters and woods of northwest Lower Michigan, allowing active access to the pristine land and waterscapes that have captivated us for centuries. This landmark trailway in turn connects a 325-mile trail network that spans across the state, creating one of the largest trail systems in the nation. Explore and honor the beautiful land, water, and people connected throughout this corridor. Find your way on the Nakwema Trailway.
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Stay informed about the latest trail developments.
- Online Survey Shows Overwhelming Support for Trail South from Charlevoix
- Trail Route Proposed for Charlevoix ↔ Fisherman’s Island State Park Segment
- 4Front Credit Union and Short’s Brewing Company Join Nakwema Trailway Founders Circle
- In-Town Route Approved for the Village of Elk Rapids
- Introducing the Nakwema Trailway
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 325+ 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.
Nakwema Trailway relies on the generous contributions of donors. Investing in trails is investing in people.
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