Temporary detours and reroutes for snowmobile use have been evaluated; however, the DNR determined there are no safe designated alternative routes available that would not impact private land owners. This project is funded primarily from a grant provided by the Recreation Trails Program, which is a Federal Department of Transportation Highway Administration program. The DNR will announce at a later date when the bridge work is completed and the bridge can be re-opened. If a trip on the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail leaves you in love with this 32-mile greenway, you are not alone. The Pere Marquette is one of the most heavily used trails in Michigan, according to a 2002 Michigan State University study. The serene, paved, corridor welcomes all nonmotorized users, including equestrians on an adjacent path for approximately 5 miles between State Route 18 and Coleman Road. There are numerous access points along the trail, as well as benches on which trail users can rest and take in the beautiful scenery of maple and pine trees. Kick off your trip in downtown Midland at the Tridge, a unique three-way bridge located at the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers. Stay straight to follow the rail-trail all the way to Clare. One section leads to the Chippewassee Park. The trail is a haven for deer, chipmunks, and an assortment of bird species. There are cultural attractions to be had from the very start. Just off the trail in Midland is the Dow Historical Museum, where you can find information and displays concerning the pioneering chemical experiments of Herbert H. Dow. Another interesting cultural attraction, located just off the trail, is the Bradley House. This restored 1874 home offers visitors a glimpse into the everyday life of an early Midland family. The town of Sanford is at mile 8.4 and is a good spot for a lunch break. It has shops and restaurants as well as Sanford Village Park, where you can dip a fishing line or a canoe into the Tittabawassee River. If you are up for a quarter-mile side trip, head north and cross Saginaw Road to reach Sanford Lake County Park, which has a beach, pavilions, boat launch and playground. Just ahead at mile 9.3 is Veterans Memorial Park, which features 180-year-old red and white pines. The Pine Haven Recreation Area, located at 8 Mile Road, has 8 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing. In Coleman the trail has been made the focal point for the city. Exit the trail at the Coleman Staging Area if you want to stop, shop, or grab a bite to eat. A bike shop is also located adjacent to the trail. Continuing north, you may decide to stop at the general store in Loomis for a snack. Although the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail ends in Clare, the rail-trail system continues to Baldwin, Michigan.