McBride - pre paving

Fred & Lena Meijer - 1995 Banquet

In October 1994, approximately 29 miles of the former Chesapeake and Ohio railroad were purchased by the National Rails to Trails Conservancy.  Private funding sources were used for this purchase with the understanding that a non-motorized trail facility would be developed.  The route traverses woodlands, wetlands, farmland, small towns and rolling hills.  Trail users would include bycyclists, in-line skaters, hikers, joggers, walkers, cross-country skiers, nature lovers and (in areas with a bridal path) equestrians.  No motorized vehicles would be allowed and effictive barriers and patrolling are proposed as enforcement mechanisms.  The trail would be open from sunrise to sunset, year round.

The Friends of the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail (FFMHT) was organized in l994 to establish a recreational trail in Montcalm and Gratiot Counties, using former railroad rights-of-way, to promote understanding through education on the advantages of such a trail, and to establish mechanisms to develop, maintain, and operate such a trail.

We see the Heartland Trail as an opportunity to provide a healthy and safe recreation outlet, close to homes, for families and individuals of all ages; to forge new bonds between local communities; to promote economic growth through tourism and related business opportunities and to enhance the quality of life in Montcalm and Gratiot Counties.

"The future is not someplace we are going to, but a place we are creating.  The paths to it are not found, they are made."

Author Unknown