Home to an expansive 12,500-mile network of trails just waiting to be explored, Michigan is cementing its reputation as the nation’s Trails State. It’s also the perfect place to take part in National Trails Day Saturday, June 2. 

The American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day is traditionally the first Saturday in June. It offers opportunities to join local hiking, horseback riding, paddling and other trail events, to host an event, or to help clean up and beautify areas along trails. The annual recognition day also is a great time to showcase the valuable work volunteers do all year long to take care of America’s trails.

In support of this trails promotion effort, a Michigan House resolution also is in the works to recognize June 2 as National Trails Day in Michigan. 

One of Michigan’s largest organized activities that day involves groups of Boy and Girl Scouts spending time on hiking and biking trails, including Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail – the longest designated state trail in the nation. Scouts all over the state will hit the trail for the Iron Belle Challenge, to see how many miles they can collectively walk, ride or paddle. Participating Scouts will get a special patch from the DNR.  

Communities throughout Michigan will celebrate National Trails Day with local events, 5K races and more, including: 

• The opening of a new trailhead on the Clinton River Trail in Oakland County.
• Ribbon-cuttings on the Paint Creek Trail in Lake Orion and the new Polly Ann Trail/Larry Obrecht Bridge in Oxford.

Find the trail adventure that’s right for you at michigan.gov/dnrtrails, or call Doug Donnelly, 517-284-6109.