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South Star Trails still an incredible rec resource
Recently, the South Star Trails have experienced major improvements; skiers have used the ‘track set’ trails in record numbers, sometimes over-filling the new parking lot (pictured).
Other winter travellers, including dog walkers, snowshoers, and fat bikers enjoyed the K9 and snowshoe trails. The new K9 extension has added interesting terrain for those skiing or walking with dogs. The snowshoe trail system, established during the last several years, is seeing consistent use and these trails are often well-packed for fat biking.
The overall increase in users indicates that we have provided a popular recreation destination for large numbers of people. Since South Star is also a user maintained site, we ask people to abide by the principle of “pack it in” – “pack it out.”
Now that spring is here, we would also like to remind people to be careful in the bush. Please avoid muddy areas to preserve a smooth surface after the ground dries up.
Last June, we were awarded a $17,000 grant under the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Community Initiatives Program. This generous assistance from the Columbia Basin Trust (Trust), along with accumulated funds from trail users, has allowed us to purchase a tracked ATV to pull our grooming equipment.
The new ATV is far superior to our snowmobile, enabling us to better utilize volunteer time. Also, we purchased a second Sea-Can to securely store our machines, equipment and tools. We are very grateful to City of Cranbrook Mayor Lee Pratt, RDEK Electoral Area C director/chair Rob Gay, and the Trust for its continuing support of our endeavours.
The South Star Trails, situated on Crown land, are managed under a partnership agreement with Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC).
RSTBC provides the authority to manage the trails, and provides considerable support for infrastructure. The South Star Recreation Society organizes volunteers to direct and carry out the numerous tasks necessary to maintain the trails for a variety of users.
Our ever-expanding membership, now totalling over 150 families, indicates to us that this is a valued community resource. We ask users to remember that this is a user maintained site. Please pick up and pack out any garbage (including dog droppings) to keep the trails enjoyable for others.
As we transition into spring, please be aware that muddy footprints and tire tracks become permanent fixtures when the ground dries up. Avoiding muddy areas in the early spring will prevent this from happening.
We are always in need of help, particularly with such administrative tasks as signage and public relations. If you enjoy the trails, please consider supporting us by becoming a member (see website), or by volunteering to help with administration.
We welcome all viewpoints and invite comments and suggestions through our email [email protected] or website www.southstartrails.com.
South Star Recreation area is located at the end of 38th Avenue South, in Gold Creek.
Lead image courtesy South Star Recreation Society; other images e-KNOW file photos
Submitted by South Star Recreation Society board
