You've all seen the billboards, and the mantra is true: "We choose this." Since we voluntarily live in West Michigan during cold and snowy winters, we might as well enjoy ourselves. So don't be afraid of the cold; embrace it this season on West Michigan's vast trail network with these six wintery activities.
With an aim to better children's lives by teaching them useful skills—both mechanical and social—Open Roads provides a variety of after-school programs. Through simply building bikes, these students are taking steps towards a successful future.
The Grand River is certainly a fixture in our community. Yet, we don't drink its water. We don't dip our feet in it. And many of us have never even stood close enough to its banks to even get wet. Now, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and the city of Grand Rapids aim to change our access to the river with ambitious plans for an extensive network of trails near the water.
Tulips, you may soon be sharing the limelight with bicycles. With almost 200 miles of trails in the greater Holland area, and plans for even more, city officials, volunteers and dedicated citizens are working together to continue making the area a major destination for cyclists.
For the past six years, Grand Rapids has set its sights on becoming a bicycle-friendly city. After nearly 80 miles of bike lanes have been implemented, with more in the works, a dramatic change in the transportation landscape has led to growing pains. City officials and grassroots leaders are now attempting to navigate these challenges in order to become one of the country's best metropolises for those on two wheels.
From recovering after cancer to coping with divorce, these three women from the West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition have discovered running is about far more than just physical exercise. On West Michigan's trails, they've found camaraderie, confidence and a whole lot more.
With nature centers, restaurants and even art installations, West Michigan's trails are becoming diverse pathways with unique destinations around every corner.
From a historic rail line transformed into recreational space to breathtaking views of the Grand River, these are trails you don't want to miss.
Named one of the top rides in the country, The Michigander brings bicyclists of all ages on a tour of West Michigan's scenic trails, Great Lakes beaches, lighthouses, rivers, brewpubs, and more.
From supporting women cyclists to raising money for Habitat for Humanity, West Michiganders can have fun on the trails this spring - and contribute to a good cause while they're at it.
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