Just a stone’s throw away from the southern end of busy Sprinkle Road is an unassuming but rich safe haven just waiting for South County residents to discover. The trail head has a permanent banner and free parking under a sign that tells us we are at the Vicksburg Nature Trail. Between the beginning and end of what is also called the Vicksburg Trailway, there lies an 86-acre regional park which is known as the Vicksburg Recreation Area. Therein lies an 18-hole disk golf course which is enjoyed almost year-round.
The 1.8-mile asphalt trail ends at TU Ave but then moves north on the other side as it merges into a network of trails that are being developed under TrailLink , a system developed across the nation by the Rails to Trails Conservancy. In addition, local municipalities in our area are finding ways to connect such trails together to create safe recreational trails that allow walkers, pets, runners, cyclists, rollerbladers, cross country skiers, and wheelchairs to access new destinations where they can meet up with friends, shop, and explore.\
Our part of the trail system is unique and benefits people of all ages, interests, and abilities to widen their horizons most seasons of the year, Michigan weather considered. For example, not too long ago my dog Lucky and I met up with the Hambright family out for an early spring bike ride on the trail. The three-generation group sported bikes with training wheels as well as big trail bikes. All riders had their helmets on with big smiles on their faces. On the left we start with Chelsea Hambright, the mother of Brooklyn and Colton. Mother and grandmother Theresa Hambright completes the quartet. They are eager for their adventure.
The trail offers a window to the history of our area with it being built on a former railbed; simply perfect for a paved path. Along the way you will see Prudential Nursery gearing up for spring gardeners. The architecture of the building tells an interesting story of times gone by. Their booming business has served our area for many years.
One day I spoke with a couple of women who had combined a visit to Prudential with a nice long chat on the trail about their gardening dreams for the new season. I have learned that I am not the only one who uses the trail as a “finishing school” for young dogs trying to get along with other people and pets, as well as a long list of native wildlife, both very small and bigger.
I just read that the South County Senior Center for Active Living is now promoting a program called WALK WITH A DOC starting April 28 for the following fourth Tuesdays through June 23. Participants will join Dr. Katie Grossman from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for a few minutes discussing an important health topic followed by time on the trail enjoying physical activity with friends and all the other gifts our trailway may offer. To learn more, contact Sherri Martin at 260-720-0974 or by email (smartin@southcountycs.com).
In closing, on behalf of all of us who share the Vicksburg Trailway, we would like to extend our enthusiastic appreciation to all who work to keep this trail open, safe, and beautiful.
Thank you Village of Vicksburg, Vicksburg Parks and Recreation, Vicksburg Department of Public Works, and all who do what they can to maintain the trailway. And thank you to all the users who pick up trash and who consistently follow the rules of the trail and treat its other users with respect.
