Michigan Air Line Trail
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The Michigan Air Line Trail is a 240-mile (390 km) non-motorized pathway running across the southern portion of Michigan's Lower Peninsula from Lake St. Clair to Lake Michigan. This trail is made up of 132 miles (212 km) of existing trail with 108 miles (174 km) yet to be constructed.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance and approximately 30 local jurisdictions are making this trail an emerging reality.
Currently trail planners are determining the route and considering what type of nonmotorized connection may be possible. For example, nonmotorized accommodation on the road requires a look at the current traffic volumes and the width of the right of way. Nonmotorized accommodation on potential trail connections require a look at land ownership, soil type, land uses, and community desire for a trail connection. The crossing of major freeways, Interstate 69 (I-69), I-94, and US Highway 23 (US 23) are also a major consideration.
Much of the route follows a historic rail line known as the Michigan Air Line Railroad, which began in 1869 with the intention that it would be a new route from Chicago to Port Huron. The Canada Southern Railway would connect to it via ferry at the Saint Clair River and traverse Southwestern Ontario, Canada to connect to Buffalo, New York.
Once completed, this will be a "super-trail" which will not overtake identities of the individual trails along its length but enhance the usability and tourism opportunities of all the trails by connecting them together. With new connections in the gaps, at least 25 new communities will be served by this major nonmotorized asset. The completion of this trail will add to Michigan’s identity as the top trail state in the nation, boosting tourism and generating new nonmotorized connections as communities all along the way endeavor to tap into this vital recreation and transportation artery.
The current name of this trail may be temporary as other alternative names are under consideration.
Trails within the Michigan Airline
- Clinton River Trail
- Battle Creek Linear Park
- Falling Waters Trail
- Huron Valley Trail
- Kal-Haven Trail
- Lakelands Trail State Park
- Macomb Orchard Trail
- West Bloomfield Trail
