The trail takes you places you cannot see from the road. It takes you into these private spaces of nature where you’re able to experience connection—connection to nature and connection to others. It’s a romantic place for my husband and me—it’s a date for us to load up the bikes and have a picnic lunch packed, and find a really special, out-of-the-way spot. It gives us time to talk and be together. It’s ours, even though we’re sharing it with lots of people.

For our family, the trail is quality family time. We are always thankful for active, engaging family time where we can experience life’s simple pleasures together. No money spent, no screens, no outside stimulus other than the beauty of whatever nature has planned for the day. It provides us with a structured way to take in a natural setting with no concern about getting lost!