An array of recreational improvements across the Keweenaw Peninsula are getting a boost, thanks to the annual awarding of Visit Keweenaw’s Destination Development Awards.
This marks the third year of the awards, typically given to eight to 12 projects. This year’s highlights include funding the Copper Harbor Trails Club’s new Berry Picker
climbing trail ($11,500) up Brockway Mountain, and a $17,000 Swedetown
Creek bridge connection for trail users in Hancock.
“We are very proud to help fund more reasons to be recreating outdoors in Houghton and Keweenaw County,” said Brad Barnett, executive director of Visit Keweenaw, the tourism authority for the U.P. 's northernmost peninsula. “Over the years, we’ve helped add new signage, trails and exhibits in various communities from Copper Harbor to Painesdale. These additions and improvements are enjoyed by visitors and residents alike but can really make a difference on a visitor’s impression of an area and their likelihood to return.”
What’s happening: Visit Keweenaw has awarded more than $85,000 to 11 Keweenaw and Houghton counties nonprofit organizations pursuing recreation improvement projects. Each year, Visit Keweenaw allows Houghton and Keweenaw County non-profits and groups of government to apply for matching Destination Development Awards. Each year, Visit Keweenaw awards $80,000 to $100,000 to various organizations. Typically, eight to 12 projects are selected, depending on application strength and demonstrated need. The initiatives vary widely in scope and focus, but they often focus on principles of placemaking which leverage unique characteristics of a community building upon its assets and creating unique experiences that benefit both the visitor and the community. In 2023, Visit Keweenaw awarded $45,000 to area projects. Destination Development projects are encouraged to be completed by September of the year of the award.
About Destination Development Awards: The awards are used to make investments in community infrastructure to improve a destination's ability to attract visitors and enhance their experiences. Local government units and nonprofit organizations in Houghton and Keweenaw County can apply for the Destination Development Awards. Visit Keweenaw developed the program to help create new visitor experiences while also supporting the high quality of life residents enjoy on the Keweenaw. “We know that amazing places to live are also incredible destinations to visit and this program helps to support both,” Barnett said.
The 2024 recipients of the Destination Development Awards are:
Swedetown Recreation Area – $20,000 – Beginner-level biking/hiking trail
Hancock Trails Club – $17,000 – Swedetown Creek Bridge connecter at Maasto
Hiihto/Churning Rapids Trail System
Copper Harbor Trails Club – $11,500 – Berry Picker climbing trail at Brockway Mountain
Main Street Calumet – $8,000 – Downtown seating and planters
City of Houghton – $7,500 – Installation of Historic Houghton downtown signage
Calumet Air Force Station Heritage Museum – $6,000 – Safety railing atop viewing tower
Calumet Township – $5,000 – New 18-hole disc golf course near Waterworks Park
Painesdale Mine & Shaft – $4,900 – Interpretive signage and visitor kiosk
Chassell Township – $2,750 – Wayfinding signage on US-41 for Accessible Kayak Launch
Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office – $1,725 – Directional and safety signage for County
trails
Keweenaw ATV Club – $695 – Trail directional signage
Funding: Each year, Visit Keweenaw allows Houghton and Keweenaw County non-profits and groups of government to apply for matching Destination Development Awards. When visitors choose to stay with one of Visit Keweenaw’s approximately 40 member properties, they’re not just booking a room — they’re making a meaningful contribution. A percentage of the dollars spent at these member properties goes directly to Visit Keweenaw, which then reinvests those funds into community recreation projects that are open to the public. By staying with Visit Keweenaw members, visitors are helping to support and enhance recreational opportunities in the two-county destination.
To apply: Visit Keweenaw annually solicits applications from community organizations to support destination development initiatives. To apply for project funding, please complete an application using the link below. While not required, projects are encouraged to be completed by September 30th of the year funds are awarded. Program Application:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HG25P83
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.