SEVENSEAS Marine Conservation & Travel December 2015 Issue 7 | Page 55

At the sanctuary’s visitor center, the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena, Michigan, visitors can explore the Shipwreck Century without getting wet. With 10,000 square feet of immersive exhibits, the center offers experiences for all ages and has significantly increased public awareness of the maritime heritage resources in the Great Lakes.

Access to the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail lies just outside the doors of the visitor center where visitors can embark on a journey along boardwalks, riverfront parks, and historic docks. The Trail winds its way along 230 miles of sanctuary shoreline and with engaging interpretative signage, connects visitors with Lake Huron’s fascinating maritime past and enhances any Great Lakes experience.

By connecting people to their environment, the sanctuary demonstrates how the power of history can become the power of place—and thus inspire understanding and protection of the maritime history that continues to shape the Great Lakes region. These waters, and the special sites within, will be here for generations to come.

Written by Stephanie Gandulla, with contributions by Russ Green.

SEVENSEAS - 55