Forest Service Considers Changes to Pine River

Trees may be planted on that massive sand dune where everyone parks to party.

If you've canoed or kayaked the Pine River, you know "the hill."

"The hill" is a massive, seemingly almost vertical sand dune near Low Bridge, the last take-out on the Pine River.

A flotilla of festive paddlers is always found at the base of the cliff, beached or tied together watching a few others make the climb to the top of the 160 foot summit. I can tell you, the view from the top is incredible!

Authorities have problems with buzzed boaters being injured on the climb, or, more accurately the descent. In 2012, a man hit a tree stump, was thrown from his canoe and died after dragging it to the top and trying to ride down the slope.

Interlochen Public Radio is reporting that the U.S. Forest Service is considering planting trees and other vegetation on the hill to discourage climbers and restore the natural habitat. Public comment is being taken on the proposal this month and restoration work will be done in 2017 if approved.

Bonus Video: 2015 South Bend Urban Adventure Games