Project Summary
The Leelanau Trail, a 17-mile corridor connecting Traverse City to Suttons Bay, serves as a vital pathway for recreation, transportation, and connection to nature. As stewards of this beloved corridor, TART Trails remains committed to ensuring its continued care, improvement, and future growth. Several exciting projects are underway this year to enhance the trail and elevate the experience for all who use it.
Key Projects for 2025
Birch Point Trailhead and Development
TART Trails acquired a 5.5-acre former hop farm adjacent to the Leelanau Trail in Elmwood Township on Birch Point Road. Plans for this development include expanded amenities such as parking, restrooms, seating areas, and public art displays. This location will also serve as a critical maintenance hub for ongoing trail upkeep and improvements, ensuring the corridor continues to meet the needs of the growing trail network. With conceptual planning underway, we’re exploring additional ways the property can serve the trail community, with an amenity-rich trailhead for users of all ages and abilities.
Leo Creek Culvert Replacement and Enhancement
At the Leo Creek crossing, TART Trails is replacing and upgrading the existing culvert to improve water flow and enhance the ecological health of the surrounding area. This project supports trail safety and sustainability but also strengthens connections to the natural environment by prioritizing the preservation of the creek’s habitat. In addition to replacing the existing culvert with a small span bridge or new box culvert, TART is exploring transforming it into a covered or gateway structure.
Art on the TART Poetry Installations
Building on the success of the “Art on the TART” initiative, new poetry installations will be added along the trail. These works will enrich the trail experience by fostering moments of reflection and creativity, blending the beauty of art and nature into a seamless, immersive journey.
2025 Leelanau Trail Report to Funders
