The East Channel Lighthouse, shown here and often seen by people boating out from Munising, is one of the Grand Island elements to be imrpoved soon. Stabilization efforts will take place in 2026 and 2027. (Photo by Michael Rodock)

MUSINSING — Visitors to some of Grand Island’s most popular destinations will notice several improvements this summer, including upgrades to recreation areas and historic resources.

The Grand Island Rim Trail project, funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, will improve the road with updated culverts, grading and trail stabilization. Areas to be updated include sections from Shelter Ridge toward North Point on the north end, between Preservation Point and mile 7.5 on the West Rim, and between miles 5 and 4 on the West Rim. Crews are expected to be on site during August and September.

Stabilization efforts on the iconic East Channel Lighthouse are planned in 2026 and 2027 through a partnership with HistoriCorps. Phase I in 2026 will focus on vegetation management around the lighthouse and repairs to the sandstone masonry. Phase II, planned for 2027, will include repairs to the roof, soffits and fascia.

As these projects move forward to enhance the public’s experience on Grand Island, visitors are also encouraged to keep safety in mind, especially when it comes to sharing the landscape with wildlife.

People can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Grand Island by being prepared for human-animal interactions. Visitors should store scented items securely using provided poles and boxes, watch for animal signs on trails and near camps, be mindful of belongings and keep a clean camp.

To stay updated on these projects and any potential impacts, people may visit the U.S. Forest Service’s websitw for Hiawatha National Forest in the Eastern Region.

The Forest Service has brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation for more than 100 years. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, supports the nation’s forest industry and energy needs, and operates the largest and most respected wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. By providing assistance to state and private landowners and working with Tribes and other partners, the Forest Service also helps steward an additional 900 million forested acres within the U.S.