The Mount Shasta Trail Association and the US Forest Service are currently engaged in a 45-mile expansion of the beloved Gateway Trail system adjacent to the city of Mt. Shasta. The existing trail network consists of 11 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails (hiking, trail running, biking, and equestrian). This new and ambitious project will add routes extending higher up the slopes of Mount Shasta and will include a connection to the Ski Park and south end of the city. The system will have many incredible vistas and a wide variety of terrain for every type of trail enthusiast. The availability of these new trails will benefit locals who love the outdoors, and will attract numerous visitors to support the economy of Siskiyou County.
The work so far has included project conception, flagging of the proposed trail, and extensive environmental analysis. There is strong community support and enthusiasm for this venture. It is hoped that actual construction can begin in the next 12-18 months.
Cost estimates for this development are nearly a million dollars. While a significant portion of the funds will come from grants (e.g. $420,000 from The McConnell Foundation), we need individual, grassroots support to reach completion. If you can see value in this endeavor, please help by donating to the Mt. Shasta Trail Association on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018. Go online to www.northstategives.org/mountshastatrailassociation
The photos (above) show an aerial view of the Gateway II Expansion area, beauty on Gateway I, and a geezer enjoying a vista area which will be included in Gateway II.
