James Windell
A groundbreaking ceremony took place on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Porter Legacy Dunes Trail and Boardwalk, a unique new outdoor destination that will offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan and accessible recreation for all.
The South Haven area already offers a variety of parks and nature areas, including beaches, hiking trails, and family-friendly spaces. The addition of the Porter Legacy Dunes Trail and Boardwalk, a 48-acre forested dune just south of the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy’s (SWMLC) Pilgrim Haven Natural Area, provides sweeping lake views and a peaceful natural setting.
“This is a truly special project,” said Ross Stein, SHARA Chairman. “The Porter property is an amazing place – and soon, more people will be able to experience its beauty up close. We’re proud to help make that happen.”
SHARA and SWMLC worked together to protect the land in 2020, with support from a $2.3 million grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) and a $750,000 match provided by SWMLC and its donors. In 2022, SWMLC received a $100,000 legacy grant from Entergy-Corporation to design and begin development of the trail system at Porter Legacy Dunes. SWMLC and SHARA worked closely together with the National Park Service and graduate students from the University of Michigan on the design of this trail system and how it could connect to a larger interdunal trail system in the future.
In 2024, SHARA secured a $300,000 MNRTF development grant to build the first phase of the new trail and boardwalk, with additional funding from SWMLC, several of SWMLC’s generous private donors, and Visit South Haven. The total trail and boardwalk project is expected to cost approximately $925,000. The finished trail will be a peaceful half-mile loop through the woods, with a fully accessible boardwalk that protects unique and sensitive habitats while leading to a dune-top overlook deck with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
At the SHARA Board meeting on June 17, 2025, SHARA Administrator Scott Reinert reported on the progress of developments at Porter Legacy Dunes. He said that estimates for constructing about 900 feet of boardwalk and a lake overlook platform would cost about $930,000. However, fundraising activities have secured enough funds for this project to move forward, and it should be finished by the end of this September. Future projects include path construction and trail cleanup.
“Visit South Haven is thrilled to support this project,” said Jen Sistrunk, Executive Director of Visit South Haven. “This is exactly the kind of unique, welcoming experience that makes our area special for both visitors and residents.”
“This project continues our strong partnership with SHARA,” added Mike Larson, Executive Director of SWMLC. “We’re excited for this opportunity to manage and protect the rare natural features of this preserve and to be part of creating more ways for people to enjoy nature while also protecting it for future generations.”
“The Porter Legacy Dunes are a jaw-dropping area that takes your breath away,” said South Haven Mayor Annie Brown. “The boardwalk and trail to this magical spot would not be possible without funding from many people including SHARA and Visit South Haven. It’s great to work with people who value the preservation of our environment and our pristine dunes.”
“I expect that the area will be open for everyone to enjoy this fall,” Reinert said, “at least that’s the goal.”
