Scott Slavin, Recreational Trail Specialist for the DNR, opened the presentation with his comments. Slavin advocated for the grant funding and participated with planning and development for the new overlook.

Last year, we announced the ground-breaking for A New Gathering Place Along the BVT at Lewis Bridge Overlook. The new ‘pocket park’ was completed recently and last Saturday, representatives from the DNR, the Friends of the Trail, and members of the public gathered at the site to reflect on the history of the crossing, and to recognize the pioneers of the BVT and those who helped create the new overlook.

DNR’s Scott Slavin noted, “The project was started in 2020 with a team of DNR staff, Marks Mandenberg’s wife as well as some of his close friends. In-kind donations, RIF funding and private donations made the project possible. The site upgrade provides an ADA accessible stopping point along the BVT with views of the Betsie River, interpretive panels describing history of the location and efforts that went into securing the Betsie Valley Trail for public use.”

The new rest stop is simply gorgeous! In addition to the beautiful views of the Betsie River, a group of Friends volunteers worked with the DNR putting in 20 varieties of native grasses and wildflowers. The plants are doing great – some are already blooming!

The interpretive panels alone are worth checking out the new park. They tell the history of the Trail and include recognition of Mark Mandenberg and another pioneer, Marian Gyr, who played an instrumental role in getting the Trail started.

When you visit, you’ll also notice the large log benches and bike racks. The masterpieces are the creation of Orchard Beach Ranger Daniel Young. They started out as a cedar log and he shaped it from there.  

Closest parking to the overlook is located at the Betsie River boat launch connected to the Trail at the intersection of Adams and River Roads. The overlook is a short walk from the parking lot. The MapQuest address is 3548 River Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635-9782

Enjoy the pictures below taken during the Dedication. Thank you to ALL who made this project a reality!

You can show your support for the Betsie Valley Trail by becoming a member of the Friends. Please visit our Donate Page to learn how.

Dan Spegel – Heritage Trail Coordinator – Michigan History Center – Department of Natural Resources. He and his staff spearheaded the interpretative panels

Sean DuPerron – Benzie Co Recreation Commission and the Betsie Management Council talking about Trailblazer Marian Gyr

Landscape designer Bob Ford and Joni trailblazer Mark Mandenberg’s wife.

DNR Supervisor Doug Barry

Lead Ranger Daniel Young who created the beautiful log benches and bike rack.

Annamarie Bauer – Regional Field Planner Park and Recreation Division