CHERRYVALE — Chris Hammerschmidt, project manager at Big Hill Lake for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, announced approval for the expansion of the equestrian/ hiking trail system at the lake in rural Cherryvale.
Plans were approved to add just over three miles of trail running from the Timber Hill equestrian access point south before ending at the Mound Valley recreation area.
Work on the project started April 12 with equipment from Rafter H. Tree Clearing of Copan, Oklahoma, using a mulcher to blaze a pre-marked, pre-approved path. The new trail offers challenging terrain and good views.
Hammerschmidt noted, “This trail allows us to utilize the property we have here at Big Hill and adds to the recreational opportunities for both hikers and horseback riders.”
The addition of the Purple Heart Trail brings the total Big Hill trail mileage to around 20 miles and will be a welcome addition to national organizations such as the American Endurance Ride Conference and the North American Trail Ride Conference, which use the site for sanctioned competitions.
The out and back nature of several segments will make it easier to plan 50 to 60 mile events with less congestion.
Ongoing equestrian improvements have been funded over the past years through grants and donations from a variety of groups. Entities supporting the new Purple Heart segment include Labette County Tourism and the Donna Keller Memorial Fund, and other fundraising projects are underway.
Jim Zaleski, director of economic development and tourism for Parsons, said, “Outdoor tourism has always been the backbone of Labette County’s attraction, and supporting more trails benefits not only today’s recreationists but will benefit future generations.”
Volunteers are working with Joe Sutton, Pittsburg National Purple Heart trail coordinator, to designate the new trail segment as an official Purple Heart Trail. Each of the existing four trail segments at Big Hill are marked with a color and a symbol, and the Purple Heart designation would fit well with the current mapping system while honoring veterans in a permanent manner.
Currently the trail is open for usage, but caution is urged as there are no markings or signage while under construction. Volunteers will be clearing more debris and measuring the distance before setting trail signs every quarter mile. Scouts of America, Troop 4 and Troop 41, plan to help with trail marking. No horses are allowed in any of the recreational vehicle camping grounds.
Hammerschmidt, asked for his assessment of the volunteer impact on the expansion, replied, “Significant. Without the volunteers, I don’t know if any of this would take place.”
Steve and Pricilla Lindsey, Independence, are two of many volunteers at Big Hill. The couple have been involved with equestrian trails there since 1993 and view the new project as a true partnership.
Steve observed, “The Corps has always been there with time and funds, plus their attitude of encouragement. It keeps us working.”
A view of the new segment of trail under construction at Big Hill Lake in rural Cherryvale. Courtesy photo
