OFFICIALLY PROTECTED!

Formerly known as “White Mountain,” these 654 acres are now known as Chigidaaki: Place of the Big Hill Working Forest Reserve and it is protected and available for all species of life to thrive. This reserves offers hilly hardwood terrain, large open meadows, and miles of two tracks all in addition to views of Lake Charlevoix and Boyne City.

Intact land of this magnitude alone is a rarity, yet this reserve’s adjacency to more than 100,000 acres of state land, which includes Michigan’s Gaylord and Pigeon River Country State Forests, makes it even more impactful. This vast ecological corridor is significant for all animals and plants that live there, but especially for large animals that require vast ranges such as black bear, elk, and bobcat.

LTC purchased and protected this land in May. Caring for a property of this size is a significant commitment. LTC is fundraising through the end of 2025 to ensure the long-term care of this land.

THE NAME

The anonymous lead donor requested that LTC work with the Little Traverse Bay Bands (LTBB) of Odawa Indians to name the property in the Anishinaabemowin language. “We are delighted to support the conservation of this immense expanse of working forest reserve, safeguarding it so that it will be available for all to enjoy,” said a representative of the donor. “We believe Chigidaaki: Place of the Big Hill Working Forest Reserve will become a destination for people of all ages, promoting improved wellness!”

Eric Hemenway, Director of Archives and Records with the LTBB of Odawa Indians, explained that the Odawa would have benefited from this land in the past. Although the people would not have lived so far inland, they would have made the trek from the shores of Lake Michigan, paddling across Lake Charlevoix and hiking through rugged wilderness to this land to hunt and gather. Land such as this would have been vital to the success of the tribe.

Trail plan in the works

While formal trails have not yet been developed and mapped, existing two-tracks wind through the property. The Conservancy does not maintain these routes, and visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and the possibility of getting turned around. Management planning for Chigidaaki is underway and will continue through 2026. The property is open to responsible recreation and hunting in accordance with LTC reserve rules.