Schrader Connection and new Green Circle trail to open on April 20
By Patrick Lynn
Two new trails in the Stevens Point area will open to the public on April 20.
A special dedication celebration will be held at 10 a.m. to recognize a safer, more scenic portion of the Green Circle Trail, as well as the new Schrader Connection trail.
A brief program will kick off the “What’s New Walk” and begins in the parking lot of the Stevens Point Brewery, 2617 Water St.
The walk is four miles, roundtrip, and snacks will be provided. The event is being sponsored by the Green Circle Trail Board and Active Portage County.
Nearly one mile of the Green Circle’s Paper Mill segment was rerouted closer to the Wisconsin River last year, providing “great views” of ridges, wetlands and the river, according to Nick Schultz from the GCT Board. The section was moved from the Babcock St. area because the former Whiting mill property was sold for residential development.
Moving the trail away from the intersection of Whiting and Sherman avenue also enhances safety, she said.
The Schrader Connection trail was named last month for Stevens Point Parks Director Tom Schrader, who is retiring in May. The section follows a former CN rail bed that was decommissioned a number of years ago.
“This is an opportunity both to introduce the community to our new trail segments and to thank private and public partners for their support of the Green Circle Board’s efforts to make the trail greener, more aesthetic, and safer,” said Jim Canales, board president.
The special “What’s New” walk will also be an Active Portage County training for the annual Walk Wisconsin, which is held in June.
The Green Circle is a 27-mile scenic hiking and biking trail that loops through the Stevens Point area and connects with over 45 miles of additional trails. It winds through forests and parks, over wetlands and along rivers, recalling the days of huge pineries, pioneer settlements, and the lore of the Wisconsin and Plover Rivers. For more, visit GreenCircleTrail.org
Active Portage County is a nonprofit organization, which seeks to create a healthier Portage County by encouraging citizens to get active and lead healthier lives through programs and planned activities that motivate citizens to get regular exercise while educating the public on the risks of sedentary lifestyles. For more information, visit ActivePortageCounty.com.