Dragon Extends Its Reach

One of a kind shirt for a one of a kind trail.

“Dragons cannot be truly tamed but they can be bonded with and trained”-From Game of Thrones Wiki
 
From our friends at NC Parks:

Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam, #midragontrail, is in the process of adding just over three additional miles to usable trail this build season. Fundraising and construction have been going strong on the Dragon Trail since ground was broken last fall. By the end of 2020, just over 13 miles will be open overall. To date, eight miles of trail are in and ready for hiking and biking.

“We’ve got some great momentum going on the trail,” said Nick Smith, Director of Parks and Recreation at Newaygo County. “Through the help of individual donors and some amazing trail partners, we’re able to keep our builders and volunteers busy working toward our overall goal.”

The miles of the Dragon Trail that will open later this year will connect already opened portions to Big Bend Park - Campground in White Cloud. Thanks to a generous donation of $50,000 from Big Prairie Township Parks, a bridge will be installed so that riders and hikers can use the trail from Big Bend Park all the way to Hardy Dam County Marina, Sandy Beach County Park, and Operator’s Village Day Park. A 1.5-mile portion in Brower Park, called Brower Loop, is already open for use; as well as a small section in Newaygo State Park.

In the coming months still, four more bridges will be installed, connecting more constructed trail. Also, later this year a route over the Hardy Dam itself will be finalized, adding more official mileage to the total for 2020. As segments are officially open, the Dragon Trail website will detail access points on the trail conditions section of the page.

“Mountain bikers and hikers are loving the trail so far,” said Dragon Trail fundraiser Jodi Overman. “With a total project goal of over $3 million for a 47-mile trail we still have a ways to go’, and any gift, big or small, will help us get further along so we can get it built.”

To access the trail on the southwest side of Hardy Pond, it’s best to park at Sandy Beach County Park. Please be sure to follow park guidelines regarding parking passes.
​
To learn how you can help build or maintain The Dragon, or make a gift, visit www.thedragon.us