Remembering John Gierke, lover of trails

Remembering John Gierke, lover of trails

What exactly is “trail love”? It’s a term that can take on many meanings, depending on who you ask and how they’re connected to the trails.

For some, it’s the bond formed through frequent use of local trails. For others, it’s an act of support from those who may not personally use the trails but want to contribute in other ways, such as volunteering or donating.

Trail love can even come from local businesses that benefit from trail tourism or from people who have moved away but still feel a deep connection to the trails of their hometown.

No matter where trail love comes from, it’s essential to the trails’ continued existence. One of the most impactful ways to show your trail love is by volunteering. Since the beginning of 2025, the need for volunteers has been a common theme in The Munising Beacon, with multiple organizations calling for support from the community. Volunteers are the lifeblood of these organizations, and giving your time not only helps maintain the trails but often gives back to the volunteer in unexpected ways.

A heartbreaking example of this is the loss of John Gierke, a longtime volunteer and passionate advocate for Valley Spur and cross-country skiing.

John Gierke passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 4 while doing what he loved — skiing. He was deeply involved in the trail community, teaching cross-country skiing to both youth and adults and sharing his enthusiasm for the sport.

His impact was far-reaching, and his unexpected passing has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy, however, lives on in the countless lives he touched. If you have memories or photos of John, the Friends of Valley Spur organization encourages you to share them as a tribute to his love for the trails and the people who use them.

If you’re looking for a way to give back and connect with others, volunteering offers endless opportunities. Both the Munising Bay Trail Network and the Friends of Valley Spur are always seeking volunteers.

Whether you’re interested in trail maintenance, helping at events or coaching youth in cross-country skiing or mountain biking, there’s a volunteer opportunity for everyone. For those looking to meet new people and enjoy social time, becoming a lodge volunteer is another way to get involved and show your support for the trails.

As Scott Adams said, “Remember, there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

For more information or to get involved, reach out to the organizations directly via email at info@valleyspur.org or info@mbtn.org, or message their Facebook pages: Friends of Valley Spur or MBTN.

In addition to volunteer opportunities, the Munising Bay Trail Network and Friends of Valley Spur are offering a new winter sports experience for local youth in partnership with Alger County 4-H.

The Winter Cycle UP event, happening Sunday, Feb. 23, from 1:30 to 4 p.m., invites youth ages 8 to 19 to try snow biking. The event is free, but registration is required for youth participants.

Families are also welcome to join the fun, with options for snow biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Limited equipment will be available, including fat-tire bikes, helmets and snowshoes, but participants are encouraged to bring their own ski gear if they prefer skiing over snowshoeing.

Lastly, a big thank you to everyone who joined in on the Munising Bay Trail Network’s sixth annual Bottle Lit Snowshoe and the second annual Valley Spur Classic ski race.

Both events were well attended, and a great time was had by all. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Taste & Glide event at Valley Spur Recreation Area in the Hiawatha National Forest on Saturday, March 1.

See more stories about the Munising Bay Trail Network or Valley Spur