MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI — The Land Conservancy of West Michigan will kick off its 50th anniversary celebration with a guided shoreline hike on April 18 at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Muskegon.
The 8:30 a.m. hike marks the first event in a three-part Explorathon series designed to highlight the organization’s conservation work across the region. Participants can choose between a two-mile paved route through Ottawa Sands County Park or a seven-mile natural surface trail that connects five parks and preserves along Lake Michigan.
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Both routes will feature pace groups and aid stations. Naturalists, staff and volunteers from the Land Conservancy, Michigan DNR, Ottawa County Parks and KLH Dunes Preserve will share information about park history and natural features during the hike.
The event will conclude with an afterparty at the Gillette Visitor Center at Hoffmaster State Park, featuring food and drinks. Tickets start at $25, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts and event costs.
Over five decades, the Land Conservancy has protected more than 13,000 acres across 165 properties in eight counties. The organization’s holdings include Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, Upper Macatawa Natural Area and North Ottawa Dunes. Conservation efforts range from planting native species to conducting prescribed fires.
The organization works with private landowners, community groups and government agencies to create public nature preserves, support local park development and help property owners protect their land.
The Explorathon series continues with a guided bike ride through the Eastern Glacial Corridor on June 6 and a guided paddle along the Pere Marquette River on Aug. 29.
Tickets and additional information are available on the Land Conservancy’s website.
