(Photo provided)

To the editor:

On behalf of the Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA), I want to thank the many area residents who attended our 25th annual Jackrabbit Trail “Ski & Swim” party last weekend. Some of you have been members of our organization for decades. Others only recently joined. Regardless, your continued support of our efforts to advocate for, build and maintain a high-quality network of trails for ski touring and mountain biking in the region is very much appreciated.

We also want to express our gratitude to the Lussi family and the staff at the Crowne Plaza Resort for generously hosting our event for 25 years running, and for their continued support of the local trail systems in Lake Placid. Additionally, we’d like to thank Cascade XC Ski Center, Lake Placid Pub & Brewery, Mr. Mike’s Pizza, Simply Gourmet and Origin Coffee Co. for their ongoing support of the “pool party” and our trail stewardship efforts.

Thirty years ago, a small band of local skiers had a vision to create a long-distance ski trail to connect several communities and nordic ski centers. The Adirondack Ski Touring Council was quickly formed, and over the course of several years, the Jackrabbit Ski Trail was established thanks to efforts of many dedicated volunteers and the support of local municipalities and businesses. Over the years, the Jackrabbit Trail has helped generations discover and enjoy the local woods and the wilder backcountry, and has inspired our more recent efforts to establish new trails for mountain biking, ski touring and other non-motorized activities under the banner of BETA.

Aside from simply being fun to ski and bike, these trail systems contribute to the sense of community and quality of life that leads many of us to make the Adirondacks our home, whether we were born inside the Blue Line or not. It is increasingly obvious that the existence of such trails is attracting visitors from near and far, which benefits local businesses that rely on recreation-based tourism.

It is encouraging to see dozens of families with young children in attendance at events like this one, and of course out on the trails skiing and biking. Whether they know it or not, these kids are the next generation of trail stewards, skiers and mountain bikers. Hopefully one of these kids will be writing a letter like this one 25 years from now.

Sincerely,

Josh Wilson

Executive director

Barkeater Trails Alliance

Saranac Lake