Blazing a Trail

Local man helps make Barlow Wayside happen

By Garth Guibord

The Sandy Post, Oct 13, 2009, Updated Oct 30, 2009

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From the newly created parking lot, a hiking trail (built by Williams) winds through old-growth trees. A smaller trail suitable for hikers with disabilities is available.

Williams reports that more permanent bridges will be installed in the near future, along with signage and interpretation kiosks that will explain the history of the Barlow Road and the area’s natural history.

The wayside also features a trailhead that leads to about 120 acres owned by the Bureau of Land Management that is being developed into biking and hiking trails. Jason Wells of the International Mountain Bike Association reports about 4.5 miles of trails are finished in that area while the area will likely end up with just under 20 miles of trails.

Wells sees the new trails as a boon to mountain bikers in the region, who typically use trail systems in the Mount Hood area that were not specifically designed for that use.

“It’s huge,” Wells said. “This is definitely going to be a lot more enjoyable; a better user experience.”

The trails will likely include berms and jumps for bikers to enjoy, while the trail system on the BLM land also could provide racing opportunities for mountain bikers.

Meanwhile, the hard work and effort to bring the area into reality has started to pay off.

“It’s pretty cool,” Williams said. “It’s a great place to walk and ride bikes.”

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