Associated Press

LANSING – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has kicked off a contest to name a new hiking and bicycling trail across the state.

The DNR announced Monday it is accepting name suggestions until Oct. 13 for the trail from Belle Isle Park in Detroit to Ironwood in the western Upper Peninsula. People can submit suggestions online or by mailing a paper entry form.

Parks and Recreation chief Ron Olson says entries will be judged on creativity, originality and ability to capture Michigan's character. He says submissions should portray the idea of connection because the trail will link many existing trails.

The winner will be offered a choice of vacation prize packages at locations along the trail.