Ride the T.O.M. in the Eastern UP

photo from Tahqua Trekker

from Tom Funke

Tom Funke is no stranger to the North Country Trail Community. He's a member of the unofficial "Clubs" with over 1000 miles of NCT under his boots.

He was previously director of the Binder Park Zoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and is now the Director of Conservation with the Michigan Audubon Society. He has authored the book 50 Hikes in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

His newest venture is to operate a shuttle service for hikers, paddlers and other trekkers in the eastern Upper Peninsula. T.O.M. stands for Trailspotting and Outfitters of Michigan. Funke wants to make it possible for outdoor adventurers to participate in one-way adventures safely, without needing two vehicles.

One portion of the shuttle service will focus on allowing hikers to experience the trails of Tahquamenon Falls State Park without needing to hike both directions. This will be a daily service, no reservation required.

He has a particular soft spot in his heart for the North Country Trail. There will be a regular shuttle service from Castle Rock, just north of Mackinac Bridge, to Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Pickups will operate daily, however, an RSVP is required. Full details are available at the web site.

Tom's motto is "Supporting one way travel of the quiet sports." This is a service long overdue. Here's hoping that enough people will take advantage of Tahqua Trekker to allow for its success.

Tahqua Trekker