CLICK TO HEAR JACK HALL’S INTERVIEW WITH ADMIN BOB HENDRICKSON
Celebrate Trails Day is this Saturday, April 25, hosted by the nation’s largest trail advocacy organization Rails to Trails Conservancy, and the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, it will be a day of trail advocacy and recognition.
With the lack of trail access this spring due to the late season snowfall, the IOHT is promoting the day as a way for people to engage with trail advocacy to support community trails. Celebrate Trails Day takes place on April 25, 2026 with hundreds of events nationwide that serve to inspire more people to make trails, walking and biking part of their everyday lives.
The Iron Ore Heritage Tail will promote a day of trail empowerment bringing together the community and trail stewardship.
“We encourage people to learn more about community trails on April 25,” said Bob Hendrickson, IOHT administrator. “The IOHT was built with community involvement and investment. It is a community asset, and we encourage everyone to take ownership in it.”
“There is unmatched potential in trail networks to make walking and biking part of our everyday lives, unlocking all of the good that happens when we are active outside, in the places where we live,” said Brandi Horton, RTC’s vice president of communications. “That’s why RTC is uniting everyone in a common appreciation for trails—and the impact of connecting trails in our communities. Our time on the trail is so much more than a day outside.”
Community members are encouraged to participate in Celebrate Trails Day in a variety of ways:
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Explore the trail: As sections of the IOHT reopen this spring, individuals are encouraged to get outside and bring a friend. The 47-mile trail features more than 70 interpretive panels highlighting the history, geology and ecology of Marquette County’s iron mining region.
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Advocate for trails: Right now, Congress is developing the country’s next transportation bill, which includes key programs that make trails possible. Contact your local, state and federal representatives to show that you support trails in your community and want to keep funding available for trail projects.
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Get involved: The IOHT’s adopt-a-mile program includes groups such as the Island Lake Crew, Negaunee & Ishpeming Lions, Connect Marquette, University of Michigan Alumni and Bell Hospital, with plans to expand participation in 2026.
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Show appreciation: Thank local trail volunteers and municipal leaders and learn more about how community trails are developed and maintained.
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Engage with partner organizations: Residents can connect with regional trail groups including IOHT, NTN, RAMBA, North Country Trail, Friends of Harlow Lake and Forsyth Forward. Trail organization can be found in almost every community.
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Celebrate access to trails nationwide: With more than 41,000 miles of multiuse trails and over 150 trail networks across the United States, opportunities to walk, bike and enjoy the outdoors continue to grow in communities nationwide.
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