The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division is in talks with the Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad to acquire 60 miles of inactive rail in the Upper Peninsula to expand the state’s recreational trail network. The purchase would include the grade between Channing and Wells, where rails were recently removed. 

DNR and railroad officials last met Sept. 25 to discuss every Escanaba & Lake Superior grade that could be sold or is already having its rails pulled.

“Both the DNR and E&LS are looking at cooperating on purchase/sale of the grade,” Ron Yesney, DNR Upper Peninsula trails coordinator, said in a release. “Both parties are interested in preserving the integrity of the grade for future rail use.”

The E&LS line between Channing and Wells has been in the process of removal since summer. The railroad recently removed stored cars from the Channing end of the line before service would officially be severed. This line was part of the original E&LS main line constructed in the early 20th century to connect with the Milwaukee Road at Channing. 

— Nick Stewart