December 26 2019
People are already using the unopened,
Elk River Trail System (ERTS) hiking, biking, horseback riding path. Here's
some shots taken the day after Christmas on the Northern end of the 18
mile trail. These pics were taken near Groves Creek. That afternoon we
noticed a couple hikers and a biker already using the place!
With a trail opening date set for June
1st 2020, many in the county see the State Park as a real asset for economic
growth.
The Groves Creek bridge has been completed for
several weeks.
Here's how the trail will look when completed.
The trail appears to be close to 12 feet wide of original "ballast" (gravel).
Up river, near Duck, regrind asphalt is being used. Both appear to be packing
down nicely.
Crossing Turkey Creek... it's a little scary.
That bridge has not been resurfaced yet.
Rails and ties have been removed well past the
old Ivydale Elem school. You are looking at a long rib of rail before
being cut up into truckable length. Not sure if the contractor is on schedule
but, the ERTS section from Duck to Clay is suppose to officially open June
1st 2020.
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