The Boardman Lake Loop is a scenic 4.2-mile trail encircling Boardman Lake, just south of downtown Traverse City. It offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, providing access to commercial areas in the north and dense woodlands in the east. The trail connects key community assets, including the library, a food market, Northwestern Michigan College University Center, and various neighborhoods.
In 2015, local leaders prioritized closing a long-standing 1.6-mile gap in the trail. After considering various options, they decided on a bold plan to cross the lake at a shallow point. Despite challenges like constructing a long boardwalk in soft underwater soil, the potential for scenic views and wildlife protection made this option appealing.
The final design featured land routes, a boardwalk over the lake, water access amenities such as stairs and a fishing deck, and two bridges over the Boardman River.
Construction presented several significant challenges, especially with the peat-filled, shallow lake bottom where the boardwalk was to be built. Traditional construction equipment was not effective, so a swamp excavator was used to navigate the soft terrain without the need for dredging.
After over 30 years of planning and construction, the loop was completed in July 2022. The trail has since become a popular and cherished community asset, demonstrating that the long wait was worthwhile.