News Release

Munising Falls Trail Construction Contract Awarded

News Release Date: September 3, 2026
Contact: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Information

MUNISING, Mich. – The National Park Service has awarded a $2.8 million contract to McKenzie Construction and Site Development, LLC (Washington, D.C.) to repair and replace the Munising Falls Trail and improve accessibility to the lower Munising Falls overlook in compliance with Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) accessibility standards.

A 75-foot section of the Munising Falls Trail was destroyed during a heavy rainstorm in April of 2025, resulting in the closure of the trail and the loss of waterfall access. The new trail will provide an accessible route to the lower Munising Falls overlook and will be engineered to better withstand future weather events.

During the 12-month project, McKenzie Construction and Site Development, LLC will perform the following work at the Munising Falls Trail:

• Remove damaged trail surface, storm debris, and other deteriorated trail features.
• Construct a new, fully accessible trail to the lower Munising Falls overlook, replacing aging pavement and the failing wood crib wall along the main trail.
• Replace three wooden bridges with elevated boardwalks designed to improve durability, erosion control, and accessibility.
• Complete slope stabilization and restore disturbed landscape with appropriate vegetation and site restoration measures.

“We are excited to begin repairing and replacing the Munising Falls Trail,” stated David Horne, superintendent of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. “These improvements will not only help this trail be more resilient to future storms, but also provide access to Munising Falls for all, regardless of ability.”

Access to Munising Falls Visitor Center will not be impacted during this time; however, parking may be limited due to contractor staging of materials.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, depending on weather conditions.

Additional information regarding Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore can be found at www.nps.gov/piro or on Facebook @PicturedRocksNL and lnstagram @picturedrocksnps. All Pictured Rocks news releases can be found here.

www.nps.gov

About the National Park Service. The National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

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