Work has begun on a new mountain bike and hiking trailhead at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. The Friends of Pennyrile group received a matching grant for this and other projects at the park and forest. This new trailhead will have trail information and several parking spots and provide access to approximately eight miles of trails for either cycling or hiking activities. Much of the area has been used by cyclists and hikers for years, but recent damage from multiple fronts caused many problems.According to Dr. Steve Agent, a member of the Friends of Pennyrile, the remnants of Hurricane Ike in 2008, the ice storm in 2009 and persistent damage from beetle infestations created a “perfect storm” which stopped most trail use in the area.
However, after hundreds of hours of trail work by Friends of Pennyrile volunteers and FEMA crews helping with the remaining ice storm damage, the area is up and going again.
Approximately two miles of new trail was established from the new trailhead and connects to the older Macedonia trail system.
The older area can also be accessed from the intersection of Wallace Park Road and KY 398 at the old Macedonia Cemetery parking area. this can be used now while work is being done at the new trailhead.
“We encourage people to get out and enjoy these trails,” Agent said. “Grooming of the trails was just finished, and new color keyed markings on trees (blazes) were done for easy navigation. For those who don’t ride, trail walking and running is a great way to get outside for exercise. For most, this is more enjoyable than just walking through the neighborhood on paved streets.”
Several sections of trail are appropriate for beginning cyclists. There are also some short, more difficult “technical” areas, such as creek crossings, steep uphills and downhills, or rocky areas that can easily be walked.
At the?Macedonia trailhead, three connecting loops are marked with blue (#1), red (#2) and yellow (#3). Each loop is between 1.5 and 1.8 miles. A map is posted on a sign at the start and at trail intersections.
At the new trailhead, two connected loops are marked in white with a total of approximately 2 miles. There are two connections, one to the blue trail and one to the red trail. A large map and information will be available at a kiosk when the project is finished.
Anyone interested in using these trails or helping with trail maintenance can call Agent at his office at 270-797-3319.
