Bellaire, Mich. – Short’s Brewing Company, Northern Michigan’s largest craft brewery, has announced an initial three year financial commitment to Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) for their ongoing work at the Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area.
Located near the Short’s brewpub in Bellaire, the trail network, which has been built over the past few years, contains more than 25 miles of rolling, scenic mountain biking and hiking trails. These trails contain some of the best singletrack in Michigan’s lower peninsula. Short’s has an enthusiasm for both outdoor recreation and the preservation of natural land parcels throughout Michigan.
“Joe Short chose to open his brewery in Antrim County 10 years ago because this is a great place to live and to work. We want to keep Northern Michigan beautiful for generations to come, and are excited to be able to give back to our community,” stated Matt Drake, Short’s COO. “We enjoy riding the trails at Glacial Hills and have already witnessed their positive impact on our community.”
Owned by Antrim County, Forest Home Township, and the Village of Bellaire, Glacial Hills showcases the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy worked with the owners to establish the recreational trail and natural area. The protection of this area, which encompasses nearly 800 acres, also ensures the continuance of high water quality in Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes and preserves critical wildlife habitat.
“It has been an honor for us to work with governmental partners, volunteers, and donors to protect this land, and to create and connect people to this new trail system,” said Megan Olds, the Conservancy’s Associate Director. “We are grateful to Short’s for their generous leadership commitment, and to the community for their vision and support for this project.”
Short’s will be sponsoring a Tailwind mountain bike race at Glacial Hills, August 3rd. This is the first race to take place at Glacial Hills, and will conclude with a family friendly after-party complete with live music and beer. Short’s will be pouring Prolonged Enjoyment, Nicie Spicie, and Locals Light.
Trail work continues throughout the summer. Volunteers can learn how to get involved by visiting the Conservancy’s website at http://www.gtrlc.org/events/.
Short’s is excited to support the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and Glacial Hills, and invites visitors to enjoy this beautiful new trail right in their backyard.
###
Short’s Brewing Company
Matt Drake
COO
231-498-2300 x101
[email protected]
Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy
Megan Olds
Associate Director
231-922-1270
[email protected]
