We recently received the e-mail which follows. Donald has asked if I would post his request for information as to what we'd like to see a water trail organized. You can either send him ideas directly, or post here and I will send him a link to our comments. - mikekayak

e-mail follows:

I have been asked to evaluate developing a water trail in the Western UP of Michigan. My plan is to review the section from Copper Harbor to the Porcupine Mountains. A portion of this was done a few years ago(Keweenaw Water Trail). I would like to extend this to the Porcupine Mountain wilderness area, and perhaps on West to Wisconsin in the future.

Here is my question: Are there a set of guidelines established for the development of new water trails? I can think of a few like:
Places to put in and take out,
Camping areas
Confidence markers
Points of Interest
Services such as food, repairs, medical, etc.
Distance between points

I am not a kayaker, which is not an issue, other I am not sure what I have to do to ensure the users safety and to provide a fun factor. We have some great waters to share with our guests, and I want to make sure that we do it correctly.

Thanks
Donald Helsel dhelsel1@charter.net