74,000 Hikers Enjoy Trails Thanks to Michigan Volunteers

When 74,000 people walk, bike, and explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula trails each year, they might not realize who keeps those paths clear and safe.

It's not a massive maintenance crew. It's neighbors with a few hours to spare.

Volunteers are the backbone of NTN Trails in Marquette, Michigan, tackling everything from downed trees to erosion damage throughout the summer. With just a small staff, the organization relies on community members who pitch in once or twice a year to keep miles of trails in top condition.

"A lot of people pitch in for a couple of hours, maybe once or twice a year," says Jeni Kilpela, NTN Trails Executive Director. "That is how we are able to run all our events, how we are able to maintain trails."

Some volunteers take their commitment even further. They'll adopt a specific trail for an entire summer, monitoring its condition and alerting staff when issues arise. This personal ownership creates a network of trail stewards who genuinely care about the outdoor spaces they maintain.

The Ripple Effect

The impact goes beyond just clear paths. Kilpela notes that volunteering creates unexpected connections among outdoor enthusiasts. People who show up to clear branches often leave with new hiking buddies and riding partners.

This community building transforms trail maintenance from a chore into a social activity. Volunteers aren't just improving nature access for strangers. They're creating the friendships that make outdoor adventures more enjoyable for themselves too.

The model proves sustainable too. By spreading the work across dozens of willing hands rather than hiring large crews, NTN Trails can focus resources on events and programming that bring even more people outdoors.

Every cleared branch and repaired washout represents someone who cared enough to act, creating a cycle where trail users become trail protectors who inspire the next generation of volunteers.