LEELANAU COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) — Plans to extend a popular non-motorized trail in Leelanau County are on hold.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore curbs design Segment 9 of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

National Lakeshore officials said the decision was made following ongoing consultations with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and the Chippewa Indians.

In August, tribal chairwoman Sandra Witherspoon wrote a letter opposing the extension of the trail.

She cited concerns about environmental impact, including potential impacts on wetlands and tree felling.

Witherspoon also said the proposed expansion encroaches on areas protected by treaty rights that guarantee tribal members the ability to gather resources for their livelihood and cultural practices.

National Lakeshore officials say existing design work will form the basis of future planning efforts, with continued collaboration alongside the Grand Traverse Band and project partners.

The 5-mile section of Segment 9, or the path to Good Harbor, would extend north from Bohemian Road. (CR 669) to Good Harbor Trail (CR 651).