Trailblaze Challenge

Trailblaze Challenge is more than a hike. It is more than a fundraiser. Trailblaze Challenge is a life-changing endurance experience that shares the journey Michigan wish kids go through with you, and ultimately helps Make-A-Wish® Michigan grant wishes to more than 450 Michigan children this year. THE CHALLENGE - 21 miles of the Manistee River Trail/North Country Trail Loop - This scenic trek provides participants an opportunity for adventure, fun and fitness while making a direct impact on the lives of children in our community battling life-threatening medical conditions. This is a hike, not a race, and caters to all fitness levels, from novice to advanced outdoor enthusiasts. THE PROGRAM - For 14 weeks, you will train with and work alongside Make-A-Wish Michigan staff and experienced hike leaders to prepare you for your journey in both training and fundraising. You'll receive a personal training schedule, have the opportunity to participate in bi-weekly training hikes and receive instruction on footwear and hiking gear from seasoned professionals. Make-A-Wish Michigan will make sure that you have every tool available to make you successful on and off the trail! THE MANTRA - "It's not a race. It's a journey." In this program, there are no winners or losers. Our goal is to bring people together to build community around families who are faced with the harsh realities of life-threatening medical conditions and Make-A-Wish Michigan. When you take your first step on your journey as a Trailblazer, you are paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for children right here in your community.