Pippi's Pass Connects Offield to NCT

Peter Curran and granddaugher Pippi (photo from Little Traverse Conservancy)

compiled from several sources

Near Harbor Springs, Michigan, the North Country Trail is now connected to the mountain bike trails at Offield Family Viewlands Working Forest Reserve. The connector is under a mile in length, but this connecting trail will increase the options for hiking and cycling in the local area.

Although the NCT is primarily a hiking trail, it is open to bicycles in some land management areas.

The new connector is called Pippi's Pass. The trail was made possible by Peter Curran, and Pippi is his granddaughter.

The Offield Family Viewlands was formerly the Little Traverse Bay Golf Club. The land is now host to approximately 10 miles of mountain bike and hiking trails.

See Offield Family Viewlands


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Lost Nation Bridge on the NCT

Enjoy this slide presentation of the building of a long-awaited bridge in the Lost Nation State Game Area on the North Country Trail. Click to view.



See Chief Baw Beese Chapter of the NCTA


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Ottaway Crossing Footbridge Seeks Expanded Access

Ottaway Crossing Footbridge (photo from Grand Traverse Conservation District)

from Grand Traverse Conservation District

The Ottaway Crossing Footbridge created a new connection across the Boardman-Ottaway River. Now, a $50,000 matching challenge from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation gives the Grand Traverse Conservation District the opportunity to make that connection accessible to even more people. The fund matching lasts only through today, July 31, 2026.

The plan is to create a universal-access trail loop and a first-of-its-kind river viewing space on the east side of the river at the Natural Education Reserve. It will also support the restoration of sensitive areas surrounding the bridge, protecting the landscape, while expanding opportunities for education, recreation, and connection with the outdoors.

The Grand Traverse Conservation District recently installed this 160-foot pedestrian bridge that spans the Boardman-Ottaway River at the location of the former Sabin Dam on Grand Traverse County’s Natural Education Reserve. With over 20,000 visitors at the Natural Education Reserve a year, this bridge, named the Ottaway Crossing, provides the critical connection between miles of popular recreational trails on both sides of the Boardman-Ottaway River, including the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails, Inc.’s (TART) Boardman-Ottaway River Trail that extends 24 miles into the river valley. This trail is part of a larger 41+ mile loop that connects the recently completed Boardman Lake Loop Trail, East Creek Reserve Trails, Brown Bridge Quiet Area, Muncie Lakes Pathway, North Country Trail, Vasa Pathway, and the TART.

Your support can make all the difference! Contribute today to see the Universal Access Trail Loop on the east side of the Boardman-Ottaway River come to life!

Donate Here

See more about the Ottaway Crossing Footbridge


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More NCT May Come Off Road Near Lowell

possible trail corridor (photo from North Country Trail Association)

a news release of North Country Trail Association

For 20+ years, alongside the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the North Country Trail Association has been eyeing a retired railroad corridor outside of Lowell, Michigan. The NCTA's goal is to utilize it to move more North Country Trail off-road.

Now, thanks to this dedicated partnership between the Association, DNR, MDOT, and Kent County Parks Department, as well as the generosity of a private donor, we're making significant strides toward making this dream a reality.

This spring, partners led NCTA and National Park Service staff on a tour of various segments along this route. When complete, 5.5 miles of NCT will be moved off-road, allowing trail users to wander more safely across this scenic farmland. From the MDOT side, this project will help develop a multi-use, non-motorized trail closing the last unfunded gap in the 125-mile Fred Meijer Mid-West Michigan Regional Trail network, allowing for uninterrupted use across six counties from Owosso to Lowell to Greenville to Alma.

See North Country Trail Association


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Possible Leakage at Hodenpyl Dam

Hodenpyl Dam and Pond

mostly from M-Live

The severe flooding this spring has changed the condition of many of the dams that Consumers Energy has been trying to sell to a third party, and is one of the factors affecting the status of that salw. One of the potential problem areas is at Hodenpyl Dam near Mesick, Michigan, on the Manistee River.

There are potential leaks, sinkholes and damage to sheet piling at Hodenpyl. Inspection could require shutting off the flow of water, and dewatering parts of the river. This could impact fish and other aquatic wildlife, as well as recreation. The inspection is being delayed until August as Consumers Energy contemplates a way to keep some water flowing downstream during that time.

Dam failure is not considered a concern, but inspection and repairs do need to take place soon. Consumers is recommending the condition be checked before fall.

Hodenpyl impounds 2025 surface acres of water, and is considered "high hazard," because failure is likely to cause property damage and death. The dam pond and the Manistee River are high value recreation venues. A portion of the North Country Trail closely follows the shore of the pond.


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Spring Lake Trail Expansion Opens

ribbon cutting (photo from Spring Lake Township)

from Spring Lake Township

A ribbon cutting celebration took place on the afternoon of June 18, 2026, in front of Country Estates on State Road to officially open the new stretch of bike path recently completed.

This 0.5-mile trail connects neighborhoods near the 144th Ave./State Road intersection to the existing bike path system. It also connects to the existing 1-mile pathway on State Road, offering access to many regional bike paths including the North Bank Trail and Lakeside Trail.

Spring Lake Township officials, staff, and community members gathered to cut the ribbon and celebrate the opening of another stretch of paved path for residents and visitors to enjoy.

This extension cost $3.8 million, and was paid for by a millage approved by voters.

See news item on Fox 17


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Ottaway Crossing Footbridge is Open

ribbon cutting on Ottaway bridge (photo from Grand Traverse Conservation District)

from the Grand Traverse Conservation District

The Ottaway Crossing Footbridge in Grand Traverse County, Michigan, is now open.

Spanning 160 feet across the Boardman-Ottaway River at the former Sabin Dam site, the bridge provides a vital connection between miles of popular recreational trails within the Natural Education Reserve and the broader regional trail network.

The footbridge connects the Boardman River Nature Center with the 24-mile Boardman/Ottaway River Trail, to a larger loop featuring the: Boardman Lake Loop Trail, the North Country Trail, the Vasa Pathway, and Brown Bridge Quiet Area Trails

Named Ottaway Crossing in recognition of the river’s original name and the region’s Indigenous heritage, the bridge represents an important milestone in the ongoing restoration of the Natural Education Reserve. It complements years of restoration work, including riverbank stabilization, habitat improvements, and the planting of thousands of native trees and shrubs, helping transform the property into one of Northern Michigan’s premier outdoor destinations. This project would not have been possible without the generosity, partnership, and dedication of countless supporters, funders, volunteers, and community partners. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life and joined us in celebrating the bridge’s opening.

You are invited to visit the Natural Education Reserve, explore the trails on both sides of the Boardman-Ottaway River, and experience the new Ottaway Crossing for yourself.

See Grand Traverse Conservation District


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Teamwork Reopens Manistee River Loop Trail

Spirit of the Woods volunteers (photo by Berny Barnes)

from the Manistee News Advocate

Heavy flooding this spring closed the Manistee River Side of the popular Manistee River Trail/ North Country Trail loop. This 23-mile loop is heavily hiked, being a perfect length for weekend backpackers. The MRT is on the east side of the Manistee River, while the NCT section is on the west.

Both sides were affected by many downed trees from a snowy winter and spring wind storms.

Forest Service staff worked hard to reroute severely damaged portions of the MRT side while Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association volunteers removed the obstacles on the NCT side. The complete loop is now open.

Read the full article at the link above.


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North Country Trail Association Introduces New Executive Director

Kate Hagner (photo from the NCTA)

a news release of the North Country Trail Association

Editor's note- With nearly 1200 miles of North Country Trail located in Michigan, about half in the Lower Peninsula, NCT news is definitely Get Off The Couch news.

The NCTA welcomes Kate Hagner, the North Country Trail Association’s new Executive Director. Mid-June, she will begin leading the Association from her home in Vermont.

Kate comes from nearly 20 years of service with the Student Conservation Association. Most recently, she was the Senior Director for Enterprise Operations, providing organizational leadership and aligning systems, processes, and teams to support strategic growth, program effectiveness, and mission impact. She led in other management and director roles for 12 years prior. Kate holds a B.A. in English from Smith College and an M.A. in English and Writing from the University of Texas.

“I’ve lived in Minnesota, upstate New York, and now Vermont – places all connected to the geography of this trail,” said Kate. “Meaningful outdoor experiences do not need to happen only in iconic destinations. I love that the North Country Trail is close to where so many people already live and work. Because of the NCTA, [the trail] is a thread connecting people, place, and time. As Executive Director, I will work to strengthen that thread – to protect it, expand it, and invite more people to see themselves as part of it.”

“I am confident that under Kate’s leadership, the NCTA will continue to thrive, strengthen partnerships, and build momentum toward the forever trail,” said Jan Ulferts Stewart, NCTA Board President.

Cheryl Kreindler will remain Interim Executive Director until Kate is fully onboarded.

You may post a welcome message to Kate at Kudoboard


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Highlights of North Country Trail Annual Report

cover of NCTA 2025 Annual Report

from the NCTA

The North Country Trail Association has issued their 2025 Annual Report which helps people see at a glance what has been accomplished over the past year.

If anyone has reservations about the how their contributions are being used, this should make you proud to support the trail. There are 618 miles of the 4800-mile trail in Lower Michigan.

Highlights from 2025:
• total miles of NCT - 4860
• 53 bridges built or replaced
• 4066 feet of puncheon built or replaced
• of the 4860 trail miles, 3365 are now off road (70% off road, and more miles off road than the original estimate for the entire trail

Concerning finances, the report states: "The NCTA continued remarkable financial sustainability in 2025. Despite a 22% decline in agency grants and early uncertainty about federal funding, which accounts for roughly 20 to 25% of revenue, strategic “belt-tightening” ensured a resilient bottom line. Growth was fueled by a record-breaking year for private support: Donations and memberships hit $900,000 (up 20%), while corporate and foundation giving rose by 23%. These resources were immediately mobilized for the trail"

NCTA Board President Jan Ulferts-Stewart says, "This report features work that honors our history as a volunteer-powered organization while positioning us to reach even further in the years ahead. Thank you for your role in caring for the North Country Trail and ensuring it remains a place of pride. "

See the full NCTA Annual Report


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Significant North Country Trail Detour

damage to Highbridge Road (photo origin uncertain)

by jhy

The recent high water and flooding in Michigan is having significant impacts on a multitude of recreation facilities and opportunities.

Perhaps two of the most significant are in the Manistee National Forest. There are two areas of closure. One is a part of the North Country Trail, and the other concerns the Manistee River Trail which has formed the eastern part of what may be the most popular loop trail in the state of Michigan.

Highbridge Road, north of Highbridge over the Manistee River has experienced washouts on both sides of the road and the structural integrity of the road surface is compromised. The picture above does not show the extent of the damage. The Forest Service has closed the road EVEN TO PEDESTRIANS, which means that hikers can not cross the river at this bridge. There are very few bridges across the Manistee.

What this means for at least a month is that any thru hikers (northbound or trail WEBO although the local direction of travel is east) will need to follow M-55 east from Udell TH for 11 miles to Warfield Rd, turn north and then west on Coates Highway to Red Bridge. There, you can access the connector to rejoin the NCT. (south or trail EABO should follow the connector to Red Bridge, take Coates Hwy east, south on Warfield, and M-55 west to Udell TH)

This is a 17- mile detour, but the total length of the skipped trail is about the same, so mileage is approximately equal, but the experience will definitely be compromised. Note that this entire route will be busier than usual with vehicle traffic as all the usual Highbridge traffic will also be using this road detour.

Perhaps the best news is that since Highbridge is a main county thoroughfare, the road will be repaired in good time.

The other huge impact is that for the foreseeable future, the entire Manistee River Trail is closed. The Forest Service is still evaluating damage. Any plans to hike the loop will need to be postponed.

See Manistee National Forest trail alerts updates


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Purple Blazes- What Do they Mean?

purple blaze (photo by jhy)

by jhy

More than a few times in my hiking the North Country Trail in various states I've come across purple blazes along the trail, most often adjacent to a road. I was informed that these marked private property.

In truth, 20 states have "purple paint laws." The blazes mean a variety of nuances of "No Trespassing."

The following states recognize purple painted stripes (blazes) on trees: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia (uses purple or aluminum), West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Several states designate orange with a similar meaning including Arizona, Idaho, and Montana. Utah property owners can use orange or yellow.

In Maryland bright blue is used, and Nebraska recognizes blue or red.
Missouri has the strictest laws, considering the purple blazes the equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs with full legal penalties for those who cross. Sometimes, the purple only means 'No Hunting, Fishing, or Trapping." This varies by state.

My experience in general has been that this may be a sensible idea, but the execution by landowners is usually poor. The blazes are supposed to be a full 8" long and between 3-5 feet off the ground, a little lower than trail blazes. Illinois suggests a maximum distance between blazes of 36 feet. I've seen edges of land along roads (presumably where owners were not happy to have a national trail passing by their property) that were marked with huge sloppy blobs of purple paint on every tree.

That said, if this were done with discretion and moderately neatly, it's very helpful to hikers to know when they are close to private property when passing through public land. It's usually not possible to know intuitively where property lines are, and if dispersed camping is allowed in an area, your tent site is supposed to be 200 feet off the trail. But will that 200 feet take you out of a state forest and into someone's woodlot? Information is good. I prefer a few purple blazes to plastic signs nailed up every 20 feet.

It would be good if a single color were universally adopted. Trails are seldom blazed with purple, but red, blue, yellow, and orange are all commonly used on trails of various lengths.

See an article on the topic in USA Today


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Dam Removal Debates Continue

Tippy Dam on the Manistee River (photo by Consumers Energy)

a news release of Michigan.gov and other sources

Consumers Energy has a new opponent in its bid to sell 13 hydropower dams, several of which are located in west Michigan.

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission, which regulates fish and game, may soon craft a resolution opposing Consumers’ plan to essentially give the dams away to a private equity firm, Confluence Hydro. Like many others, commissioners are concerned the sale contract under consideration now by the Michigan Public Service Commission doesn’t offer enough guarantees that Confluence will care for the dams. One possible negative outcome is that selling the dams could leave the Michigan DNR to take over responsibility if they fall into disrepair.

Confluence has promised it would maintain the dams. Consumers, for its part, says it would rather tear all the dams down than agree to new terms for the sale.

Lawmakers, meanwhile, have introduced bills to toughen Michigan’s dam safety standards, currently among the weakest in the nation.

The dams under discussion are:
• Au Sable River: Mio, Alcona, Loud, Foote, Cooke, and Five Channels dams.
•Manistee River: Hodenpyl and Tippy dams.
•Muskegon River: Rogers, Hardy, and Croton dams.
•Grand River: Webber Dam.
•Kalamazoo River: Calkins Bridge Dam.

Many of these dams have become the centerpieces of recreational facilities such as the North Country Trail along Hodenpyl Dam Pond and the Dragon Trail encircling Hardy Dam Pond.

See more about the Natural Resource Commission comments


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Rudi Hargesheimer to Present at Quiet Adventure Symposium

Events Calendar

Garden Cove segment of the Group of Seven Trail, Ontario (photo by Rudi Hargesheimer)

Intro by jhy: Rudi has been an advocate and publicizer of the Superior Hiking Trail, and thus also of the North Country Trail, for decades. I first saw his media program "Sentiments from the Heart" 26 years ago. This was based on entries left by hikers in log books enhanced with his own phenominal photos. This is a must-see program at QAS.

submitted by Rudi Hargesheimer

Rudi Hargesheimer has published a new book about all the best hiking trails on Lake Superior's Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Ontario shores. Twenty of them are backpacking trails! Of, course the NCT is featured! He will be a speaker at the Quiet Adventures Symposium in Lansing on February 28, 2026 at noon. Rudi has hiked and backpacked every trail in the book, gathering 320 of his best shots to share. On some trips, he used a packraft as well as his backpack or daypack. Of interest to Michigan hikers are the incredible trails north of Sault Ste. Marie. A new one, the Group of Seven Trail, is a highlight. Come visit with Rudi; he will surely whet your appetite for adventure.

Rudi Hargesheimer was an early board member and President of Minnesota's Superior Hiking Trail, now part of the North Country Trail route. He wrote the history of the SHT and included 400 of his photos! His books, The Superior Hiking Trail Story, the Trek Continues and the new Superior Trails, A Photo Tour of Lake Superior's Best Hiking Trails will both be available for purchase at the symposium.

See Quiet Adventures Symposium


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North Country Trail Association Seeks New Executive Director

Events Calendar

NCTA Headquarters mural (photo by jhy)

from the NCTA and board president Jan Stewart

Andrea Ketchmark, Executive Director of the North Country Trail Association, has chosen to step down from her role with the North Country Trail Association (NCTA) on January 15, 2026, having accepted another professional opportunity. Andrea laid a strong foundation for our future.

Andrea says, "After 16 years, it's hard to put into words just what this trail and this community has meant to me. I'll be forever grateful for the experiences I've had, the relationships I've built, my time spent on the trail and advocating for it. We truly have a special resource and an even more special community. I will champion the North Country Trail whenever given the chance."

The NCTA has now posted the application for the position. The role summary of the document states, "The Executive Director provides visionary leadership for the NCTA, guiding its work across eight states through clear direction, strong relationships, and effective execution. The role directly supervises the Director of Trail Operations, the Director of Development and Communications, and the Director of Trail Protection, with a total staff of 13."

See Position Announcement and application


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West Michigan Regional Trails Master Plan

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counties in the West Michigan Trails Plan (graphic from West Michigan Trails)

from West Michigan Trails

The draft Master Plan for West Michigan Trails was updated in 2024. West Michigan Trails seeks to enhance the quality of life by advancing a regional trails movement. With a geographic area consisting of 18 counties, running about 170 miles north-south and 50 to 70 miles east-west, it is an ambitious mission. The project area includes 910 miles of existing trails; two of the oldest rail-trails in the state; the longest rail-trail in Michigan; nearly 200 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline; a national forest; hundreds of miles rolling farmland and orchards, 4 state recreation areas, and 13 state parks. Linking these resources with a complete network of trails would result in west Michigan becoming a destination of national significance and establishing a defining quality of life factor for the over two million people who live in the region.

The 142-page document outlines both the history of multi-use trails in this area and goals for standards and connectivity. It emphasises the "big connections that unite communities across the area."

While this plan aims to create a cohesive regional trail network, it does not include all US bike routes or single-track trails such as the Dragon Trail, the North Country Scenic Trail, and the Iron Belle Trail. However, these trails are recognized as important destinations that the regional trail network connects to, enhancing the overall accessibility and experience for trail users. Additionally, the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1 and part of US Bike Route 35 overlap with the regional multi-use trail network, further integrating these prominent routes into the broader system.

Action steps include:
• Identify Priorities
• Allocate Resources
• Support Grant Applications
• Collaborate Effectively
• Monitor Progress:

Although still incomplete, the plan covers aspects of design, advocacy, and eventual development of many connected trails. It can serve as a template for the trail planning process.

See the full West Michigan Trails draft plan


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Improvements to Vasa Trailhead

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VASA trail sign (photo from Grand Traverse County)

from VASA Trails

We are excited to announce that GTC Parks and Recreation has been awarded a $400,000 grant for improvements to the Vasa Trailhead Park from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

This award, combined with matching funds from TART Trails and the County will bring needed reconstruction of the stormwater retention system, increased and improved parking, connecting pathways between the warming hut and trails, and more.

“The Vasa Trail network is one of the most beloved recreational resources in our area. A passionate group of community members had a vision in the late 1980s for a world-class trail system. Their dream came true and now we have the opportunity to redevelop the Vasa Trailhead Park to match that vision. We are grateful to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board for helping make this happen,” said John Chase, Director of Parks and Facilities for Grand Traverse County.

Design and engineering for the project have already been completed. Funds are anticipated to become available from the State of Michigan in 2026 with a construction schedule to follow.

The Vasa Pathway is named for the famous Vasaloppet ski race in Sweeden, the world's oldest and largest cross-country ski event, established in 1922. In 1977, the Grand Traverse Vasa held it's first ski race. The trail system consists of a series of four four-season loops located east of Traverse City, Michigan. The longest loop is 25 kilometers, and the shortest is three. The trail hosts the annual Iceman Cometh bicycle race, and the North American Vasa cross-country ski race.

See map of Vasa Pathway


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One Section of NCT Remains Closed After Spring Ice Storm

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area where timber salvage is being done (photo from the NCTA)

from the North Country Trail Association

Only one section of North Country Trail remains closed after a spring ice storm devastated 100 miles of it in Michigan's Northern Lower Peninsula. This segment, between Kipp and Valley Roads near Petoskey, is still closed as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources conducts timber salvage work. On state forest land, the DNR had to assess the situation before allowing volunteers in to do clearing work. This section was deemed salvageable.

Fortunately, the NCTA Regional Coordinator for Michigan, Kenny Wawsczyk, has been teaming up with Harbor Springs Chapter volunteers to scout these segments to help plan, and to keep trail crews and trail users updated.

Extensive cleanup and tree removal was necessary in the spring of 2025 after the storm that caused extensive damage across the northern Lower Peninsula. Dozens of trained volunteers cleared the remaining sections of the trail.


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Former Scout Camp Greilick Open to Public

Events Calendar

Camp Greilick ski trail (photo from Grand Traverse County)

compiled from several sources, mostly from a news release of Grand Traverse County

After Over 1,000 hours of volunteer time, plus work from staff and community partners, Camp Greilick near Traverse City, Michigan, is now open to the public. Four-season activities are available.

Featured are: A hiking trail called Lagoon Loop, additional trails for hiking, snowshoe, backcountry cross country skiing, an 18-hole disc golf course, “Wood Chip Hill” children’s area with story walk and bouldering wall and two geocaches.

The overarching park vision is to protect and preserve the conservation value of the property and dedicate it as a public space where county residents and visitors can experience passive and active outdoor recreation, learn to be better stewards of the environment, and develop skills to improve their outdoor experience.

Grand Traverse County acquired the former Boy Scout camp property in 2024 after it had sat idle for many years. “We are honored to bring this special piece of property into our parks system and make it available for the public to create lifelong memories and enjoy outdoor recreation and education, just as it has for many decades. We are especially thankful to the staff and volunteers who have dedicated their time and talents to help us open the park,” said John Chase, Director of Parks and Facilities for Grand Traverse County.

Planned additions for 2026 are: outdoor and environmental education opportunities, on-site lodging, and pavilion/lodge rental. The county is also working with North Sky Raptor Sanctuary to bring a raptor education center and rehabilitation facility to the park.

The park is located at 4754 Scout Camp Rd. and can be accessed from Hobbs Hwy (please note that map applications may incorrectly route drivers on Ranch Rudolf Rd.).

It is open 365 days a year from 6 AM to 11 PM. Facilities are currently winterized, so plan to pack in water if needed. Porta Potties are available on site. Leashed dogs are welcome and pet waste stations are in several locations. The kiosk in the parking lot has a large print map with a full park layout, as well as a QR code so that visitors can take the map along with them. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for monthly newsletters about all of the happenings at Camp Greilick.

Here is the map of Camp Greilick Trails

For additional information, contact Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation at gtparks@gtcountymi.gov, Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation


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Local Couple Create Trail at Sparta Sports Complex

Tim Shelton scouting trail (photo by Katy Shelton)

from a conversation with Katy Shelton

Looking for stories to feature on this blog, I was reading about a recently created trail around the perimeter of Sparta Sports Complex, Sparta, Michigan. Imagine my surprise when scanning the article, to realize that I know the people responsible for creating this trail.

Katy and Tim Shelton, active North Country Trail hikers and volunteers, decided they wanted a trail near their home where they could get in 5K (three miles).

"We wanted to create a trail for the residents of Sparta that was nearby and easily accessible. Hopefully walking on our trail will inspire them to continue their hiking adventures and seek out other trails, farther away. They will soon discover all the neat trails that are out there for everyone to explore."

Starting two years ago in dense woods full of "pricker bushes" and undergrowth, the couple began pounding in orange stakes to determine a suitable route for the new trail. "We hammered in over 300 of them," Katy told me.

"I don't like long pants," Katy says. "That first year was brutal. We plotted a course and chopped out a trail through woods and wild raspberry bushes with LOTS of thorns and over a TON of trippable roots." Tim's trousers would be covered in sharp, prickly seed pods. Katy's legs took a real beating! But they persisted. They got help from other community volunteers, and this fall (2025) the 3.5-mile trail opened.

At first the couple carried all their tools in by wagon, but eventually the Sports Park loaned them the use of a golf cart which made the logistics much easier.

Signs are in place and locator maps will be installed. KAty explained there is currently a small detour where a river improvement project is underway, but the trail is still useable.

Katy said, "I'm working to get it on AllTrails, but that's a work on progress."

The park also features ball fields and a disc golf course.

See Sparta Sports Park
See Fox 17 news report on the project


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