April “Caboose” Willbur, Michigan Central patch + Michigan, Mackinac Bridge, and 1000 miles In January 2020, I was recovering from surgery when a simple Facebook post changed the course of my next five years. Ann Riley-Gawura, a woman I’d never met, shared that she planned to hike the North Country Trail across Michigan’s Lower […]
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2026 NCTA Volunteer Awards: Trailblazer
Trailblazer Awards are presented to businesses or foundations (or representatives of them) for far-sighted vision and support, demonstrated by significant contributions to the North Country Trail or the NCTA. Barb Gecas For generations, Heston’s Lodge has been a haven for NCT hikers and volunteers at the edge of Northern Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area […]
2026 NCTA Volunteer Awards: Blue Blazes Benefactor
Blue Blazes Benefactor Awards are presented to those who demonstrate vision and generosity through significant monetary or in-kind contribution(s) to the North Country Trail or the NCTA. Peter Bennett and Julia Davey Peter and Julia have demonstrated their commitment to the North Country Trail in time, talents, and treasure by investing their life’s energy […]
