Support would ensure trail's construction

Are you a hiker? Are you a mountain biker? Would you be interested in a having a four-mile long mountain trail, within a mile of Sandpoint, with incredible views overlooking the Cabinets, the Monarchs, Sandpoint, the lake, and Pend Oreille River? The Mickinnick Trail is that trail, and it can be open to the public this summer.

Thanks to, a donation of 160 acres of land by Nicky Pleass (in memory of her late husband Mick Pleass), the strong financial and moral support of the U.S. Forest Service, the city of Sandpoint, the Resource Advisory Committee, Friends of the Mickinnick Trail, and the Monday Hikers, this amazing addition to our community is nearly a reality. The Mickinnick Trail has been laid out and flagged, trailhead designed, and construction money approved. All that remains is a vote of support by the Bonner County Planning and Zoning Commission and formal approval by the county commissioners.

This Thursday, May 6, at 6:30 p.m.. in the County Courthouse, the Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to recommend, or not, approval of the Mickinnick Trail.

Planning and Zoning has shown some reluctance to support this project because they are responsible for the maintenance of Woodland Drive which leads to the trailhead. That's where you hikers and bikers come in.

All those interested in seeing this trail become available and open to the public this summer are encouraged to attend this meeting. A strong show of support can make it happen.

Invest a part of your evening this Thursday to make our great community even better. Support the Mickinnick Trail.

ANNE and BILL MITCHELL