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Protecting A Legacy:

Keweenaw Heartlands Project with The Nature Conservancy

In 2022, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) purchased 32,600 acres of working forests in the horn of the Keweenaw Peninsula, ensuring a legacy of dedicated conservation.

Dubbed "The Heartlands," these acres encompass rich, biodiverse landscapes intertwined with active Keweenaw communities, publicly accessible preserves, trails, and outdoor recreation.

Working towards a future that protects these dynamic forests and waterways, while enshrining public access, has seen The Nature Conservancy working intimately with local Keweenaw community members, the State of Michigan, and many who love the Keweenaw.

Explore the Keweenaw Heartlands Project

TNC Nature Preserves

Woman hikes across a ridgeline in the Keweenaw
Mount Baldy offers unique wildlife viewing and panoramic Lake Superior views.

With extensive trails networks and US-41 winding its way across the Keweenaw Peninsula, those travelling to destination Copper Country communities and seeking natural rugged wonders may have ventured into the Keweenaw Heartlands without even knowing it!  For those who seek more dedicated appreciation of the Keweenaw Heartlands, there are diverse TNC Nature Preserves waiting to unveil their beauty to you:

Featuring: Mount Baldy

Protect the Keweenaw's Heart

Recreating Responsibly in the Keweenaw Heartlands

Love the Keweenaw, in all the different ways you play and explore within the Keweenaw Heartlands. To Love the Keweenaw means to respect and preserve the nature and history of these lands that we explore. By making concerted efforts to respect the trails, your fellow visitors, and the abundant wildlife at these nature preserves, we can all ensure lifetimes of access and appreciation for these lands. For insights on how you can be a good steward, visit LoveTheKeweenaw.org and follow these TNC rules:

  • Off-trail use of motorized vehicles is not permitted.
  • No cutting or removal of vegetation without permission (berry picking and mushrooming are permitted).
  • No transportation, handling, dumping, or disposal of liquid, solid, natural- or man-made waste, refuse or debris.
  • No bonfires, fireworks or other fires as they are a threat to the land and wildlife.
  • No permanent ground blinds or tree stands.
  • Camping is not allowed on the Heartlands at this time. Dispersed camping with a permit and camping in designated campgrounds on state land is encouraged.

(Source: The Nature Conservancy)