Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Tail of the Dragon is a road (US 129) in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains that is a favorite of sports car and motorcycle enthusiasts. The Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam trail in Mecosta and Newaygo counties announced Wednesday Segment 10, portions of segments 4 and 9 are now open for hiking and biking. This eleven mile stretch of road has 318 curves, making it one of the most challenging and exciting motorcycle rides anywhere. Trail Etiquette The trail. Posted by 5 minutes ago. From an … The Cadillac Pathway Trail - Groomed Fat bike Trail Michigan - Riding Fat Bikes in Snow. report. All rights reserved (About Us). From an … Construction on Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam trail in Newaygo and Mecosta counties could begin by this summer, the Muskegon Chronicle reported. Pictured is the "twin bridges" installed in Segment 8 of the Dragon Trail… trail: Jan 19, 2021. © 2021 Advance Local Media LLC. … More from News 8. The website will serve as the go-to resource for updates on Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam trail in Mecosta and Newaygo counties. At just 1.5 miles round-trip, it delivers big-time bang for your buck. The Dragon Trail begins on a small hill behind the Marina office building. The Dragon also received a $500,000 grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation and about $60,000 in other donations for a total of about $860,000. From … According to a Michigan State University Center for Economic Analysis study, the Dragon will draw 100,000 annual visitors and generate $4.15 million in annual economic activity, with at least 70 new jobs. Re: Michigan Dragon Trail by DynoDon » August 22nd, 2020, 3:40 pm Spectrum Trail Designs, who built DTE trails are building the Dragon, almost 50 miles around the lake, the people I've talked to that have ridden whats there are impressed, I wish it were closer to me, but I'll make the drive when its done, maybe sooner. The Dragon will be a 50-mile world-class mountain bike trail in our backyard. This is going to be one of the top trails in the lower Michigan! Seed money for the project was provided by Newaygo and Mecosta counties in the form of $150,000 each. Close. The single-track Dragon Trail, which some believe could become a national attraction, is a decade in the making and has a price tag of $3.7 million. Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission. As of 2020, segments 8-11 are open, and segments 2 and 4 are partially complete. This is a gravel lot, not the main marina. With outdoor recreation creating 2.2% of the annual US economy, quantifying in $412 billion dollars, and $26.6 billion in outdoor recreation consumer spending right here in our home state of Michigan, it is easy to see how this is a solid investment being made by the Mecosta County C.V.B. Tweet. The trail would include 13 scenic overlooks and 20 footbridges. save. The trail is expected to provide opportunities for biking, running and water events, including triathlons and biathlons, he said. A new trail in western Michigan that developers believe could become a national attraction is set to break ground this year. Right now 6 miles of the trail is open. Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is a mountain bike optimized recreational trail that will be … BIG PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — The plan to create a 47-mile trail for hiking and biking trail through Mecosta and Newaygo counties is taking shape as more of the trail … An aerial view of the Hardy Dam Pond, which the non-motorized trail would encircle, shows that it’s shaped like a dragon. Vote. “That’s a capacity that you don’t have other places,” Hoag said. Light the Fuse. More trails. is excited to announce their strategic investment of $100,000 in the Michigan’s Dragon Trail project, along with being the trails first sponsor. A new trail in western Michigan that developers believe could become a national attraction is set to break ground this year. Based on our research with Michigan State University, Mecosta County and Big Rapids are very likely to see a sustainable surge in economic activity for many years to come.”, Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is an adventure destination that embraces West Michigan’s majestic lakes, rivers, and bountiful forests. BIG PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP, MI – Six miles of a planned 47-mile trail named for its dragon-like shape are now open in West Michigan. We got a sneak peek at a new mountain biking trail coming to Michigan! Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is a 47-mile non-motorized, multi-use trail system located between Hardy and Rodgers Dams in West Michigan. The trail … A $200,000 grant from Consumers Energy will help complete the project. Michigan’s Dragon Awaits in Newaygo County In 2009, the vision for a 47-mile, natural surface trail following the outline of the 4,000 acre Hardy Dam Pond emerged. The road has an 11 mile stretch that has over 318 curves. The construction season recently wrapped at Michigan's Dragon at Hardy Dam for 2020. Michigan’s Dragon Awaits in Newaygo County In 2009, the vision for a 47-mile, natural surface trail following the outline of the 4,000 acre Hardy Dam Pond emerged. “There are other trails that are this long, but very few are circular, fewer go around a body of water and none of them that we could find go around a body of water that’s undeveloped,” said Ryan Coffey Hoag, land use educator with Michigan State University Extension in Newaygo County. When this entire trail is completed it will be approximately a 47 mile loop. Bike Life with Rob. One of the first Dragon Trail segments completed. Right now 6 miles of the trail is open. The first 13+ miles have been opened to the public in 2020 with more trail … Construction is underway at the West Michigan site where a projected 10 miles will be … The first 13+ miles have been opened to the public in 2020 with more trail … Still being improved and adding sections, currently … Developers say five of … Newaygo County, which is heading up the project with Mecosta County, has submitted proposals for two grants from the Department of Natural Resources that could amount to $750,000, Hoag said. A new trail in western Michigan that developers believe could become a national attraction is set to break ground this year. “There is already quite a buzz about the Dragon Trail. The committee is populated by county and township officials from Newaygo and Mecosta counties along with Hoag and other invested parties, Hoag said. Construction on Michigan's Dragon at Hardy Dam trail will start up soon. One of the first Dragon Trail segments completed. The Dragon is a new mountain bike trail currently being constructed to eventually go all the way around Hardy Dam in Newaygo, Michigan. The bulk of the construction funding will come from State and Federal Grants, private, corporate and foundational fees, parking fees, donations and the County Parks Departments budgets (both Mecosta and Newaygo counties). MECOSTA COUNTY — Despite winter weather slamming the area this month, work continues to keep a proposed 47-mile loop trail along the Muskegon River on track. When completed, Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam will be a 47-mile non-motorized multiuse trail that will propel West Michigan into a premier adventure sports destination providing world-class mountain biking, hiking, running and winter sports experiences. There is always a lot of activity from Michigan riders in other subs, and the goal here is to hear more about the riding that you enjoy in the Great Lakes State - MTB, gravel, road, snow, whatever! Facts-first reporting from the source you trust. MICHIGAN’S DRAGON The New Midwest Adventure Destination www.thedragon.us www.thedragon.us at Hardy Dam Newaygo County Parks Mecosta County Park Commission West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance The Dragon Trail is managed by: The Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau (Mecosta County C.V.B.) More from News 8. Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam has been in the works since around 2011, according to documents filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. More info on the Dragon Trail website. Subscribe now. Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is a linear Newaygo County Park that is jointly managed by the Newaygo and Mecosta County Park Commissions as well as the West Michigan Mountian Biking Alliance. The remainder – more than $1 million – is expected to be raised through corporate and private donations. First added by Jeff Barber on Nov 16, 2020. This hidden trail is one of the best hikes in Michigan. When finished, the Dragon Trail will loop around Hardy Pond from Hardy Dam in Newaygo County to 8 Mile Road just west of U.S. 131 in Mecosta County. The website will serve as the go-to resource for updates on Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam trail in Mecosta and Newaygo counties. The trail is very well groomed, lots of fun berms and pops, some punchy climbs, fun descents, and several areas to see the beautiful views along the lakeshore. hide. 11:22. It leaves ruts/deep holes, uneven tire and footprints, contributes to erosion and creates a hard-to-fix trail surface. Dragon Trail is located on the banks of the nearly 4,000 acre Hardy Pond Reservoir on the majestic Muskegon River. Protect Michigan Trails by not using them when muddy. A $200,000 grant from Consumers Energy will help complete the project. The Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam trail in Mecosta and Newaygo counties announced Wednesday Segment 10, portions of segments 4 and 9 are now open for hiking and biking.. WHITE CLOUD — Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam, otherwise known as the Dragon Trail, recently launched its new website detailing trail openings and construction progress on the 47-mile natural surface hiking and mountain biking trail in Mecosta and Newaygo counties. The planned trail will pass through untamed terrain, and six campgrounds and day parks, which will also serve as trail heads. BIG PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — A portion of a 47-mile hiking and biking trail in West Michigan is now open to the public. Pin. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. The Dragon is a new mountain bike trail currently being constructed to eventually go all the way around Hardy Dam in Newaygo, Michigan. That’s the only public money in the pot so far. There are 26 numbered posts along it, though a few seem to be missing, that correspond to an interpretive brochure focusing on tree and plant identification. mlive.com - STANWOOD, MI – “Michigan’s Dragon” trail is getting larger. They have already finished a mile of the trail in White Cloud. Michigan. “We see the Dragon Trail project as a key investment that will bring even more Pure Michigan magic to Mecosta County,” stated Connie Koepke, Executive Director of the Mecosta County C.V.B. 25 of Michigan's best-loved trails, ranked. Hardy Dam Dragon Trail is a 15.2 mile out and back trail located near White Cloud, Michigan that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The Dragon Mountain Bike Trail - Groomed Fat Bike Trail in Michigan - Riding Fat Bikes in the SNOW Video; Share. FERC regulates Consumers Energy, which owns the land. Climbing is hard, 66 years old and decided to mountain bike ride again. The Dragon Trail: Segment 9 Intermediate. Published by trail people for trail people, the mission of Michigan Trails Magazine is to provide you with the most accurate maps and information to help you plan and enjoy a great day, weekend or extended vacation on Michigan’s trails. The Dragon, with all its signage, kiosks, bridges and overlooks, is expected to cost more than $3 million, Hoag said. Be the first to rate! Michigan's Dragon is envisioned to be a 47 mile hiking and biking trail through Newaygo and Mecosta Counties. Join the fundraising team and help us get this amazing trail across the finish line! Michigan's Dragon Trail Official First Ride Stanwood, Michigan By Alexis Mercer Organizers, project partners and media met at Brower Park in Stanwood on Monday, July 20, 2020 to hold the first official trail ride and hike on the much anticipated Dragon Trail. share. Michigan's Dragon is envisioned to be a 47 mile hiking and biking trail through Newaygo and Mecosta Counties. Hint: If you are leaving visible bicycle ruts, deep footprints or hoof tracks the trail is too muddy. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (User Agreement updated 1/1/21. “The Dragon is unlike any other recreational trail in the Midwest. Trail users are now able to enjoy an 11.5 mile out-and-back stretch from Hardy Dam all the way up to Big Bend Park. ... Los Robles trail break. MECOSTA COUNTY — Despite winter weather slamming the area this month, work continues to keep a proposed 47-mile loop trail along the Muskegon River on track. Plus, Mecosta County offers hundreds of quality hotel rooms, great hospitality and entertainment venues designed to attract outdoor enthusiasts from across the country and around the world.” Scott Faulkner, Fundraising Coordinator for the Dragon Trail Project, also commented, “The Mecosta County C.V.B. A pair of Northern Michigan counties broke ground today on a new 47-mile long recreational path dubbed the Dragon Trail. Along with being the first financial sponsor of the Dragon Trail, the Mecosta County C.V.B. Developing The Dragon From an article posted on the MSU Extension website By Ryan Coffey - Extension Educator, Land Use, Government & Public Policy A massive, non-motorized hiking and biking trail being developed around the Hardy Pond in Mecosta and Newaygo counties will put west Michigan on the map when it comes to outdoor adventure destinations. The Dragon trail promises to put west Michigan on the world stage for adventure sports destinations when completed, hosting both sanctioned and unsanctioned mountain biking and running competitions, as well as several related winter activities. Michigan's Dragon trail to begin construction this year. Michigan’s Dragon Trail is unique because it can be used all year long – you can even hit the trails on a dog sled after the snow hits the ground. Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement updated 5/1/2021). However, Wright is not currently part of The Dragon Executive Committee tasked with bringing the idea to fruition. From … Construction is underway at the West Michigan site where a projected 10 miles will be … The trail is primarily used for hiking. has earned the distinction of having the longest suspension bridge in the project (one of three) named after their organization. West Michigan Biking Alliance is involved in the development and expected to be a “critical and key partner," Hoag said. Hardy Dam Rustic Nature Trail is a point-to-point path with a small loop at the end. Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is a linear Newaygo County Park that is jointly managed by the Newaygo and Mecosta County Park Commissions as well as the West Michigan Mountian Biking Alliance.