The Brownstone Trail: A Work-in-Progress
The Brownstone Trail offers views of Lake Superior in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
With broad community support, Landmark Conservancy purchased commercial property adjacent to the Brownstone Trail in Bayfield at the end of 2022 to stabilize and restore a section of trail, improve visitor experience, and protect Lake Superior.
The initial restoration design prioritized placing the restored section of the trail close to the lake, which required placement of large rock at the shoreline After receiving feedback from potential funders, we have pivoted to a new design that places the restored trail further upslope and requires that the adjacent property be vacated before work begins.
Our purchase agreement allows the former landowner to lease the property back for a period of five years as they move their business to another site. We plan to begin earthwork in 2028 pending successful grant funding. Fortunately, we anticipate that restoration and trail work for this simpler design can be executed within a single season.
Please visit our Brownstone Trail Updates page for more details and continue to enjoy the trail using the detour provided. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we navigate a complex project!