Erwin Hollow Multi-Use Trail Proposal

The recent surge in interest in outdoor activities shows us there a deep seated desire for outdoor enjoyment.  I’m sure you have noticed as I have, an increase in the number of patrons to our local trail systems. Personally I have noticed parking lots becoming more crowded, trails becoming frequented by all manner of outdoor enthusiasts, and a larger number of people enjoying the outdoors.  Now more than ever is the need evident for additional access to our local natural areas.

My name is Eric Draper.  In mid February I began exploration of the state designated piece of land on the west side of Erwin Hollow Road.  Since that time I have hiked the area numerous times and I believe that this piece of land presents a unique opportunity to build a sustainable multi-use trail for public use.  This specific location has various features that would create an entertaining and enriching multi-use trail that the people of our area so obviously crave. The trail I have in mind would take advantage of some very interesting geologic features and provide an engrossing view of the area that is otherwise hidden from public view.

Our area provides for us the ability to enjoy the changes in beauty that are associated with the change of seasons.  I, as well as many of the other people I know, cross country ski, hike, mountain bike, and snowshoe to enjoy the seasons as fully we can.  I hope to create this new trail with all-season use in mind, and with all types of outdoor recreation being taken into consideration. Not only will the all-season use provide year round outdoor enjoyment, but it will provide ample opportunity for continued trail maintenance.  

As a member of one of the teams of people that share responsibility for creating and maintaining many of the trails that make up various local trail systems, I will ensure that the sustainability of the trail is the highest priority.  Wet areas will be avoided as much as possible to prevent the degradation of the trail over time. The trail will be laid out to ensure year round safety for all potential users. Trail maintenance will be easily managed as multiple members of the team are within a five mile radius of the trail head.  As I am less than a mile away, I offer my time and resources to ensure the continued maintenance and safety of the trail.

I believe that if approved, the approximately 3 mile loop of trail could be open to the public within 1-2 weeks.  I am excited to begin building. My goal is to keep a highly natural feel to the trail taking inspiration from the trails at Erwin Wildlife Management Area.  Natural features will be preserved, immovable objects will be avoided, and a wild/natural feel will be maintained at all costs. The DEC or other regulatory bodies will be contacted for guidance on this issue to ensure the trail is built within their guidelines.

Another source of inspiration is the Finger Lakes Trail system.  This trail system is truly one of the gems of our area, and is highly used and loved by locals.  I hope that over time this trail could be taken into consideration as an additional loop of the nearby Crystal Hills Trail system, an offshoot of the greater Finger Lakes Trail.  It is my intent however, that the multi-use nature of the trail should be maintained to provide enjoyment for all. In this time of increased interest in the outdoors it is important to be as inclusive as possible.  One of the benefits of having additional trail available is decreasing the load on the other trail systems in the area.  

At the time of this writing, increasing our social distance is of extreme importance, and the uncertainty of what the future holds is another great reason to expand the public access to the outdoors.  It is our responsibility to take actions that distance ourselves from others and it seems the first place people look to is the natural areas and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed therein without much public contact.  I theorize that this trend for outdoor enjoyment is going to become a more permanent part of society. To me this is a huge step forward and I’m hopeful that this means a public that supports an environmentally conscious outlook in the future.

I look to you for support.  Through the combined efforts of our local outdoor enthusiasts I have no doubt that this proposal for a new trail will be taken seriously.  I appreciate the time you have taken to read my plan. By signing the petition you are taking action to ensure future enjoyment of a unique wilderness area and the expansion of our local trail network.  Your signature will also help to bring attention to the deep seated desire we all share for outdoor enjoyment.  

I hope to see you out there!

      -Eric (Turbo) Draper-