Phase Two of enhancements to the Kewash Nature Trail began in August 2021 and involved grading and paving approximately 1.41 miles of the existing trail. Phase Two paving began where Phase One left off in 2019, with the new paving extending westward towards the Crooked Creek Pedestrian Bridge. This bridge has often been used as a scenic backdrop for weddings and senior pictures and has also been used as a prime fishing location.

The previous trail surface was limestone and was replaced with a ten-foot-wide concrete trail which should provide better year-round usage. Washington County Conservation Executive Director Zach Rozmus spoke with KCII about the improvements to the trail.

“I feel like I’ve said this a lot, but one of the drawbacks to the old trail surface was the inconsistent trail conditions from season to season, especially if you had to use a special means of transportation. With these improvements, I can happily say that you can access the Crooked Creek Bridge 365 days a year.”

Funding sources for the project included: a Transportation Alternative Program Grant, a Wellmark Foundation Grant, and funding from various private donations. For more information about the new Kewash Trail, contact the Washington County Conservation Office.