WMMBA Statement on Cannonsburg State Game Area Trail Access
Background
Cannonsburg State Game Area is a valued multi-use trail system and an important part of West Michigan’s outdoor recreation network. As a State Game Area, it also carries unique stewardship responsibilities, including seasonal considerations and protection of wildlife habitat.
For nearly 30 years, WMMBA has worked in partnership with the Michigan DNR Wildlife Division to honor those responsibilities while maintaining sustainable trail access. We have maintained open communication and worked to balance our shared priorities: responsible trail access, user safety, wildlife preservation, and traditional hunting season access.
In late August, WMMBA received written communication from the DNR outlining a change to the long-standing seasonal mountain bike access — reducing it from February 1 through September 14 to just June 1 to August 31. This change reduces mountain bike access from seven and one-half months to three months and effectively eliminates the traditional and best spring riding season.
Following discussions with the DNR, the WMMBA Board of Directors decided not to support this change. We believe the decision warrants additional review and that a sustainable solution should be based on sound evidence, data, and the long-standing partnership between WMMBA and the DNR.
WMMBA values its relationship with the DNR’s Wildlife Division and appreciates the areas where we have found common ground. We remain committed to working toward a reasonable compromise that protects wildlife habitat, while preserving responsible recreational access during the long-established riding season.
We are asking the West Michigan mountain bike community and our broader trail community to make your voices heard through the appropriate channels. WMMBA has created a dedicated webpage with regular updates, background information, and form letters that can be used to contact state elected officials and DNR leadership.
We encourage the community to stay informed, be respectful, and focus on constructive advocacy as we work toward a solution that recognizes both wildlife stewardship and responsible public access to our trails.
How You Can Help
We are asking the West Michigan mountain bike community and our broader trail community to make your voices heard through the appropriate channels. To help, please complete the Riding Feedback Form and send your State Rep, Senators, DNR etc. a letter using the Letter Template provided.