The annual Pure Michigan’s Governor’s Conference on Tourism was held in Traverse City, MI this year welcoming travel industry leaders from all over the state. This conference not only includes highly motivational speakers and resources for destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and affiliate-like tourism businesses but also honors communities and industry leaders for their positive impact on the tourism industry.

One such award is the Pure Michigan Trail Towns designation. The Michigan Department of
Natural Resources (MDNR), in partnership with Travel Michigan, recognized just three (3)
communities as Pure Michigan Trail Towns with the City of Big Rapids being one the of those
honored.

“The City of Big Rapids is thrilled to have received this prestigious honor,” stated Mayor Fred
Guenther. “This is another great example of how not only our community works
collaboratively together on important community projects but also reflects the pride that we all
have in our great city and the amazing resources we have to offer.”

The application included numerous highlights relating to trails within the Big Rapids region such
as the 92-mile Fred Meijer White Pine Trail as well as the award-winning Riverwalk, which
provides access to all with views of the Muskegon River. Big Rapids is also a short distance away
from the Michigan’s Dragon Mountain Biking Trail that is currently half way completed. Once
completed, this one-of-kind, 47-mile looped trail will be a true outdoor adventurer’s
destination. Trail users in Big Rapids can also enjoy a number of public art installations as well
as trail events throughout the year. A robust marketing plan through the Mecosta County
Visitors Bureau and wayfinding signage system ensure that the trails are a well-known part of
the Big Rapids community.

“Working on this project has not only been a great learning experience but has also provided
me with great insight on all that the City of Big Rapids has to offer. I am excited to work on future projects that help promote this forward moving community,” stated Jessie Black, Big
Rapids Community Economic Development Specialist.

“The distinction of being a Pure Michigan Trail Town is a significant honor for our city and
community, while also giving us a leg-up on marketing and promotion of our vibrant outdoor
recreational offerings and resources. The travel and tourism industry is not only one of
Michigan’s largest industries but has also proven to be a positive financial driver right here in
the Big Rapids region. Tourism creates numerous jobs in addition to benefitting our area
hotels, restaurants, shops and more. The Big Rapids region has a lot to be proud of and we are
looking forward to a strong summer tourism season this year,” noted Connie Koepke, Executive
Director of the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau.

“The City of Big Rapids will be proudly displaying this honor and are also looking forward to
future collaborations that will help promote our amazing city”, noted Paula Priebe, Big Rapids
Community Development Director.

Key committee members that worked diligently together on this project include Paul Griffith
with the Friends of the White Trail, Connie Koepke the Executive Director of the Mecosta
County Visitors Bureau and Jessie Black the Community Economic Development Specialist of
the City of Big Rapids.