It ’ s like a wonderful interactive outdoor museum .
Research increasingly points to the restorative effects of time spent reconnecting with nature . And the Montour Trail has a wealth of nature for you to experience , with 47 miles of main-line trail along with branch routes bringing the total to 60 miles . It is quite simply the nation ’ s longest suburban trail . The trail can be used year-round for walking , running , cross-country skiing and biking .
Although the Montour Trail Council ( MTC ) receives funding from government agencies for trail building and major capital projects , the MTC receives no regular government funding for the trail . Amazingly , this massive trail system is supported by memberships , charitable contributions , and fundraising events to maintain it . The volunteer-led MTC is a true community commitment in which people of all ages and from all walks of life come together to keep the trail in great condition .
MTC board member Philip Torrez says , “ We are blessed to have such a good group of dedicated , hardworking volunteers who have grown the trail into one of the region ’ s premier outdoor resources .”
A fun event is planned for early fall , the Gateway Engineers Tour the Montour . This fundraiser is a great way to support the trail and join in a fun family bicycle ride . This is the 22nd year for this annual event , which will take place Saturday , Sept . 21 . Registration includes a distinctive event t-shirt , fully stocked refreshment stops along the route , and a post-ride picnic luncheon at the Forest Grove Sportsmen ’ s Club , located near the 1.5 mile trail marker . All proceeds from the event will benefit the maintenance and development of the trail .
If you ’ ve never visited the Montour Trail , now is a great time to start and see why some people stop by every day . It ’ s like a wonderful interactive outdoor museum , where the exhibits are changing daily . You could visit every day and never see it all . It ’ s a special place to spend the afternoon with your family , or just an hour or two in quiet solitude among peaceful , natural surroundings .
You may register for the Gateway Engineers Tour the Montour event at montourtrail . org . You can also sign up for individual and family memberships on the site . ( There are discounted membership rates for students and seniors .) With a membership , you will receive regular newsletters to keep you up-to-date on trail events and developments . If you ’ re interested in volunteering , there is also information on dedicated Friends groups who take care of various sections of the trail in their area , as well as opportunities with the MTC .
For beautiful photos of the Montour Trail , you may want to consider joining the Facebook group Montour Trail Enthusiasts , at facebook . com / groups / 43518292159 . n
OAKMONT-PENN HILLS-VERONA | FALL 2024 31