ABOUT THE PROJECT

Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grants are awarded every year to projects that provide for natural resource protection and outdoor recreation. At least 25 percent of the total cost of each selected project is required as a match from local government applicants. For 2018 the MNRTF has awarded the City of Ironwood and the SISU Dirt Crew a $280,000 grant for development of a mountain bike trail system at Miner’s Memorial Heritage Park in Ironwood, MI. The 167-acre park, located in the center of the city, was once the location of numerous historical mining operations. The new network of mountain biking trails will provide opportunities for cyclists of all levels – from beginner to advanced. The project will include development of several trailheads around the park as well as a link and trailhead on the Iron Belle Trail north of the site. The park also features a network of walking, cross-country and snowshoe trails and hosts community activities such as the Candle Light Snowshoe Hike and the SISU Skifest, a popular cross-country ski race in Ironwood.

Together with the local match of $120,000 – $66,000 from the Ironwood Tourism Council, $14,000 from the City of Ironwood, and $40,000 from the SISU Dirt Crew – a total of $400,000 will be put towards a professionally built trail system at Miner’s Park. A huge thank you to all our donors, sponsors, and everyone who worked hard to make this happen! Follow this page and the SISU Dirt Crew Facebook page for future updates.