ICORE Launches Year-End Campaign to Complete Local Fundraising for Mercer Loon Loop Trail Expansion

Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts (ICORE) has launched its year-end fundraising campaign, "Turn Your Year End Gift Giving into Something Lasting," aimed at closing the final funding gap for Phase 1 of the proposed Mercer Loon Loop Trail.

The community needs to reach this critical milestone, which will secure the funds required to unlock competitive state and federal development grants.

The proposed Mercer Loon Loop Trail will expand the existing paved trail infrastructure into a safe, scenic 26-mile multi-use loop connecting the Northwoods communities of Mercer, Winchester, and Manitowish Waters. Designed for biking, walking, and exploring, the trail will directly support regional businesses, encourage healthy outdoor recreation, and preserve the natural beauty of the Northwoods for generations of residents and visitors.

Substantial groundwork has already been laid for the project. The critical engineering design phase is fully funded and complete, and all necessary trail rights have been successfully secured. Thanks to early community support, ICORE has already raised 75% of its Phase 1 local fundraising goal.

"Reaching this local fundraising milestone is the key to making this three-phase project a reality," said the Loon Loop Trail Team. "Every year-end gift, no matter the size, brings us closer to securing the state and federal grants needed to break ground on a legacy project that our families, friends, and neighbors will enjoy for decades to come."

As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 81-1342550), all financial contributions to ICORE are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Community members and supporters looking to make a lasting impact before the December 31 deadline can contribute through two primary methods:

• Online Donations: Secure gifts and additional trail project information are available on the official project page at https://ironcountyoutdoors.org/mercer-by-bike/.

• Donations by Mail: Checks can be made payable to "ICORE" with "Mercer Trails" written in the memo line, and mailed to P.O. Box 202, Hurley, WI 54534.

About ICORE

Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts (ICORE) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to developing, maintaining, and promoting sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Iron County, Wisconsin. Through community partnerships and volunteer advocacy, ICORE works to enhance regional trail systems and connect people with the natural landscape of the Northwoods.