The DNR defines a water trail as “a designated route on a navigable waterway such as a lake, river, canal or bay, that is designed and managed to create a positive outdoor recreation experience for the user.”
The Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds, known as LGROW, worked for years to get the designation from the DNR, submitting an application in February 2024. Last month, the DNR approved that application.
The designation will allow for new funding opportunities from the state government to improve amenities and enhance access along the river.
The Lower Grand River runs 96 miles from Portland to Grand Haven and has 35 public access points. It is also the final portion of the Grand River to receive designation. Combined with the Upper and Middle portions of the river, the Grand River now makes up the largest contiguous water trail in the state.
The Lower Grand River joins a list of nine other designated water trails throughout Michigan.
