Since the devastating derecho last August, Indian Creek Nature Center’s land team — with the support of many volunteers — has been hard at work clearing debris, rebuilding and rerouting damaged trails. And now, just in time for National Trails Day (Saturday, June 5), a majority of our trails will be open for all to enjoy.
“The support of our members, donors and volunteers has been incredible,” said Executive Director John Myers. “Thanks to their dedication to our mission, we are able to not only re-open a portion of our trails, but also improve them for future generations. Land restoration and protection is a critical piece of our mission to create champions of nature. We are grateful to all who support that work.”
Re-opened trails include the 0.6 mile Cedar Overlook Trail (a temporary connecting trail to our Woodland Trail that overlooks the Cedar River) and the 0.8 mile Sycamore Loop (a connecting trail between the Bluebird Trail and city-managed Sac and Fox Trail). Also open is Wood Duck Way, the Christiansen Prairie Trail, Bena Trail, Bluebird Trail and Penningroth Paths. The Woodland Trail remains closed and under construction. See the updated trail map for reference.
“The storm was no doubt devastating to our trail system, but even before the derecho, parts of the old trails were not sustainable or ideal,” said ICNC Trail Manager Jason Bies. “The derecho gave our team the opportunity to reimagine the trails’ importance and their impact on the landscape. In our work to restore or recreate our trails, we have been able to improve them both for better user-experience and for the long-term health of the environment.”
Hikers are advised to stay on the marked trails and avoid any closures for their safety and for the health of the trail and surrounding environment. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to restore and reroute this trail throughout the summer.