Noquemanon Trail Network

Noquemanon Trail Network
Name	Noquemanon Trail Network
Location	Marquette County, Michigan
Use	Hiking, Mountain biking, Cross-country skiing, Snowshoeing
Season	Year-round
Maintained	Noquemanon Trail Network Inc.

Noquemanon Trail Network. The Noquemanon Trail Network is an extensive, multi-use non-motorized trail system located primarily within the Marquette County region of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Developed through collaborative efforts between community organizations, government agencies, and private landowners, the network provides year-round recreational access to the diverse forests and terrain of the Lake Superior watershed. It is renowned for hosting premier sporting events and serving as a vital community asset for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.

History

The genesis of the trail network can be traced to the late 1990s, driven by the vision of local outdoor advocates and the organizing efforts of the Northern Michigan University community. Key partnerships were formed with entities like the United States Forest Service, which manages the adjacent Hiawatha National Forest, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The name "Noquemanon" is derived from the Anishinaabe language, meaning "noon-day sun," reflecting the area's indigenous heritage. Early development focused on creating trails for the Noquemanon Ski Marathon, an event inspired by world-class races like the Birkebeinerrennet in Norway and the American Birkebeiner in Wisconsin. Over subsequent decades, systematic expansion incorporated lands through agreements with Cliffs Natural Resources, the City of Marquette, and Marquette County.

Trail system

The network comprises over 100 miles of meticulously designed and maintained pathways, segmented into distinct trailheads and loops. Core areas include the Forestville trailhead, the South Trails network near the Marquette Mountain ski area, and the North Trails section weaving through the Yellow Dog Plains. Trails are specifically graded and signed for various uses, with separate corridors for summer activities like mountain biking and hiking and winter-specific routes for cross-country skiing on groomed classical and skate skiing tracks. Signature pathways include the Blue Trail and the Noquemanon Trail Network's segment of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, which connects to historic sites like the Cleveland-Cliffs operations. Infrastructure features numerous bridges, boardwalks over wetlands, and warming shelters.

Recreation and uses

The network is a four-season destination, fundamentally shaping the outdoor culture of the Upper Peninsula. In winter, it is a hub for cross-country skiing, with grooming supported by the Superiorland Ski Club and events like the Great Bear Chase. During snow-free months, trails become premier routes for mountain biking, attracting riders to the technical terrain and flow trails, and are regularly featured in the U.P. Gravity Series competitions. Hiking and trail running are popular, with connections to scenic overlooks and the Presque Isle Park corridor. The trails also facilitate snowshoeing, birdwatching, and nature photography, with the area being part of the migratory path for species documented by the Audubon Society.

Management and organization

Stewardship is overseen by Noquemanon Trail Network Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors. Day-to-day operations and trail maintenance are conducted by a professional trail coordinator and crews, often employing members from the Superior Watershed Partnership and Conservation Corps. Funding is secured through grants from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund, memberships, donations, and sponsorships from local businesses like the Landmark Inn and Snowy Range Sports. Critical ongoing collaboration exists with the United States Forest Service, Marquette County, and the International Mountain Bicycling Association for trail sustainability standards.

Events and races

The network is famed for hosting large-scale, nationally recognized competitions that draw elite athletes and thousands of participants. The flagship event is the Noquemanon Ski Marathon, part of the American Ski Marathon Series and a qualifier for the U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships. Other major events include the Marquette Trail 50 ultramarathon, the CopperDog 150 sled dog race which utilizes trail sections, and the Marquette Enduro mountain bike race. The Superiorland Ski Club organizes the Great Bear Chase ski festival, while the U.P. Gravity Series features downhill mountain biking competitions on adjacent terrain at Marquette Mountain.

Geography and access

The trails are situated within the rugged topography of the Lake Superior shoreline, characterized by glacial deposits, basalt ridges, and mixed northern hardwood forests dominated by sugar maple and eastern hemlock. The system traverses watersheds that drain into Lake Superior, including the Carp River and the Dead River. Primary public access points are the Forestville trailhead off County Road 553, the South Trails parking area near Marquette Mountain, and the North Trails entrance from Wright Street. The network is integrated into broader regional plans, including the Iron Ore Heritage Trail and the Marquette Greenway initiative, enhancing connectivity to communities like Ishpeming and Negaunee.

Category:Protected areas of Marquette County, Michigan Category:Cross-country skiing trails in Michigan Category:Hiking trails in Michigan Category:Trails in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan