LEELANAU COUNTY — Sugar Loaf, one of Northern Michigan’s most recognizable landscapes, could soon be transformed into a permanently protected public recreation area, thanks to a proposed land donation and a $1.6 million fundraising effort launched by the Leelanau Conservancy.
Suppose the campaign is successful by year’s end. In that case, the conservancy will take ownership of approximately 285 acres at the long-dormant site, previously home to a shuttered ski resort, and reopen it to the public.
The current owner, who has remained anonymous, has pledged to donate the property once the fundraising goal is met.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to restore a place that holds deep meaning for so many,” said Tom Nelson, executive director of the Leelanau Conservancy. “We envision Sugar Loaf as a place where people of all ages and abilities can hike, bike, cross-country ski, play and reconnect with nature.”
The $1.6 million in remaining funds will be used for land stewardship, ecological restoration, trail construction and infrastructure improvements. The total cost of the project is estimated at $8 million, with $6.4 million already raised.
Plans for the site include:
- A network of trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
- A summit pavilion offering scenic views
- Universal access features, including an accessible loop trail
- Family-friendly amenities such as a sledding hill, nature play area and gathering space
- Environmental restoration to protect native species and water quality in the Good Harbor Bay watershed
Ross Satterwhite, who has represented the property owner, said the donation honors the community’s long-standing connection to the site.
“Ownership feels this land should belong to the community,” Satterwhite said. “By placing it in the capable hands of the Leelanau Conservancy, and through the support of its members and the community at large, ownership can ensure that future generations will enjoy Sugar Loaf’s recreation and cherish its views forever.”
The airfield on the property will remain in private ownership. Public access to the site will not be permitted until the donation is finalized.
Two community information sessions will be held: July 30 at 6 p.m. at Solon Township Hall, and Aug. 5 at 6 p.m. at Glen Arbor Township Hall.
More information, including ways to donate, is available at leelanauconservancy.org/sugarloaf.