October 8, 2011 marked the dedication of the Wrightwood Village Trail. Initially intended for children to be able to walk to and from school without having to walk near the highway. And now, it is being enjoyed by residents of all ages and even their dogs walking to town for shopping, going to the Post Office or the Library or getting their daily exercise. The trail stretches 1.25 miles from Wrightwood Elementary School to the west to just past Sheep Creek Road (in Wrightwood) to the east.
Close to 100 community members gathered at Wrightwood Elementary School where John Lenau, Chairman of the Wrightwood Village Trail Committee shared the events leading up to the day’s ceremony. District Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt was in attendance as was Ken Anderson, representing Senator Sharon Runner. Members of Caltrans were also present. Speeches were made and the Boy Scouts led the enthusiastic group on the inaugural hike down the trail. Children were given California Poppy seeds, courtesy of Golden State Water, to spread along the sides of the trail. The Timberline Lions Club, provided snacks and beverages for everyone, as well. Ten-years ago Leneau had the idea to blaze a trail through the village. A committee was formed and the work began. The committee consisted of Ron and Sue Parody, Lynn and Marcus Haile, Ernie Mogg, Chuck and Cathy Carroll, Kim Floyd and John Lenau. They worked hard for over four years but to no avail. There were just too many challenges and no money. Then, in 2009, with the widening Hwy 2 project, Caltrans had to cut down trees along Hwy 2. That mitigation brought the monies needed for the trail. And finally the trail began its path to beautifying Wrightwood.
