Work has begun again on the massive trail system in Newaygo County called "The Dragon Trail."

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What Is The Dragon Trail?

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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I happen to live right by The Dragon Trail in Newaygo County. I actually drive across the Hardy Dam each day to and from work.

The Hardy Pond is a massive water system that when looked at it on a map looks like a dragon hence the name The Dragon Trail.

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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Newaygo County began building these trails in 2019 and so far has 24 miles of trails completed.  There are still 23 miles of trails to complete but crews have gotten back on the trail and hope to finish another 10 miles before the end of the year.

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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Crews have three bridges that will need to be completed this year. With the bridges and 10 more miles finished in 2022 that will leave 13 miles of trails to complete moving forward. Newaygo County plans to finish the project in 2023.

What Can You Do on The Dragon Trails?

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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The Dragon Trail is set up for year-round enjoyment. You can bike, hike, jog, and even cross country ski in the winter months.

Living in the area I have noticed a lot of fat tire bike traffic. A couple of years ago I would see bikes but now I see the fat tire bikes in huge numbers and this is all year long now.

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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When you make your way around on one of the sections of The Dragon Trail, don't miss those amazing views of the Hardy Pond along the way. Not to mention all the wildlife from deer, small game and you might even see a beaver or two as well.

I highly suggest you get a map of The Dragon Trail because there are different areas along the way that provide bathrooms and water that could be essential to making your experience more comfortable. Plus you can get a good look at the 11 sections of the trail and know where you want to set up a base. Currently,d only 6 sections are operational with 4 more being worked on.

A daily pass to enter is $7 and if you get a yearly pass it is $35 for the year. If you plan on visiting often then I highly recommend the yearly pass. This allows you a place to part load and unload your gear and maybe even stop by one of the park's beaches for a swim if it gets too hot.

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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Make Sure The Dragon Trail Section is Open

Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
Michigan's Dragon At Hardy Dam Facebook Page
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Tons of people have already been using the trails that are open but when you get to a section that is closed, it is for a reason. Safety is a big priority and some sections of trails do not have bridges or the trail is not there yet if you are unfamiliar with the trails this could be very hazardous especially if you are moving quickly on a bike.

WOOD reported Martin Hall of West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance said, "people don't go looking for the new trail or riding or walking up near the trail builders. Work crews must stop when you show up. We will let you know when there is something new to ride or hike.

47 miles of trails and bridges do not happen overnight. This is a five-year process that already has 23 miles of trails to enjoy so be patient as the crew works to complete the rest that will allow people to use these trails for many years to come.

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