A bridge on Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam (the Dragon Trail) has been named for Big Prairie Township Parks in honor of the organization’s partnership with the trail. The bridge, located in segment nine near the intersection of South Cottonwood Avenue and E. 16th Street in Big Prairie Township, was formally dedicated on August 10, 2021.

“Big Bend Park and the Township are host to the busiest segments of trail to date, segments 8 –11,” said Nick Smith, Newaygo County Parks Director. “We are seeing more new campers, day users, and visitors due to this trail portion being installed, thanks to the dedication of past and current Big Prairie Township Parks board members.”

Current Big Prairie Township Parks Chairman Reuben Tucker and Past Chairman John Clark each spoke at the dedication ceremony.

“We’re excited about this partnership, and we look forward to the possibility of working together on other projects in the future,” said Tucker.

Ground was broken on the Dragon Trail in fall 2019. The project is estimated to cost around $3.7 million in total, and Big Prairie Township Parks committed $50,000 towards the trail construction. To date, 14.6 miles of the trail is officially open, with another nine miles opening yet this year.

To learn how you can help build or maintain the Dragon, or make a gift, visit https://www.thedragon.us/support-the-dragon-trail/donate/.