South Loop Trail aka Lake Loop Trail
November 2011
We thank those members who had prepared proposals, attended meetings and had championed for this trail's possibility for years! "Thank you" to the Equestrian Trails Committee, chaired by Sandra Batie who pushed this proposal so it became a top priority within the DNR for approval. We also wish to thank the many people who have worked hard to make the political climate in Michigan more receptive to equestrian needs. We must thank the DNR for the permission to create more equestrian trail with connecting options. We greatly appreciate the use of their equipment. Our park supervisor, Tim Machowicz and staff for being supportive and assisting us. Joe Strach and Paul Curtis for their approval and believing that we could do this.
"Goblet" tree
The Lake Loop covers some beautiful terrain with outstanding views of Lake Ovid and beautiful old growth trees. This new trail is a wonderful addition to the trails at Sleepy Hollow. Be sure to join us this summer!
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Marsha and Pat on the multi-use trail.
Marsha on the new Lake Loop.
Pat under one of the many old growth trees. So many of these old trees display a lot of character.
Nice gentle curves so you and your horse can see further ahead.
Marsha and Pat near the trail head.
Mike Wood
(Photos courtesy of Pat Brown)
October 2011
After a decade of trail proposals and waiting, Sleepy Hollow Trail Riders received permission in late September to start construction on the new south loop. The loop uses part of the old park road over the dam and south to near the boat launch site. The new trail winds along the lake offering many views of Lake Ovid. Two new connector trails to the west loop and staging area were added. We finally have a beautiful view of the lake and a trail that is cart accessible!
Since we were given a window of only ten days to construct this trail, members came together, worked hard and cleared a trail that was ahead of schedule, within budget, and exceeded State requirements. We thank Gale Moore and his skid steer, Gary Fortin and the brush hog, Don and Pat Brown with tractor and chain saw, Kim Moore with mule and chain saw, Mike Wood who swung the McLeod, Myron Karsten with chainsaw and Marsha Putnam with loppers and lunch wagon. Because of everyone's outstanding efforts, the trail clearing was done in two days!!
As weather permits, there will be additional workbees to clear emerging roots, rock wall and placement of a new culvert. New signs have been installed.
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Myron Karsten at the mule, background (left to right) Don Brown, Kim Moore and Mike Wood
Left to right: Kim Moore, Mike Wood, Don Brown. Background: Gale Moore
Mike Wood using the McLeod.
Gale Moore at work in his Skidsteer.
"Gale's Skidsteer chomping away at the underbrush."
"Lunch break. Thanks guys for all your hard work! First row (left to right): Kim Moore, Don Brown and Pat Brown. Second row (left to right): Myron Karsten and Gary Fortin. Third Row: Mike Wood.
Marsha Putnam and Pat Brown"
Skidsteer and Gale hard at work.
"Off to another part of the trail."
Getting ready to start on the culvert.
Some of the equipment used in trail clearing.
Don Brown brushhogged the connecting path from the West Loop to the Multi-use Trail. Do you know exactly where this is?
Working on the culvert.
Here comes the bank run gravel!
Gale's Skidsteer makes to job of spreading the gravel easy. We are so grateful for its use. What a time and "back" saver!
(Photos courtesy of Pat Brown)
April 30, 2011
Currently we have GPSed and mapped the location of the proposed Lake Loop Trail. The map will be presented to DNR for their review and approval. The proposed trail would follow the old road, now a multi-use trail, south to the old boat launch road near Price Rd. The trail would then turn north along the high ground near the lake, and finish back at the old road near the dam. This, along with a joiner trail from the West Loop to the old road would add 11 miles of new trail to Sleepy Hollow State Park! If the new trail can be approved in 2011, construction can start as soon as 2012.
Pat Brown and Marsha Putnam walking on the Proposed Lake Loop.
Pat Brown checking her "tracks" on the GPS.
Gale Moore and Marsha Putnam taking a break in the old picnic area across from
the island.
Don Brown enjoying the sunny day while walking the proposed Lake Loop Trail.
Pat and Don Brown relaxing at the end of the trail.
