Picture credit to City of Coon Rapids
The City of Coon Rapids is excited to announce the official designation as an American Discovery Trail (ADT) Town and the reopening of the refurbished Riverside Trail. The ADT is a network of trails throughout diverse landscapes and communities, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts across the country. Coon Rapids is the third town to be recognized with the ADT Town designation, along with Cedar Falls and Denton, Md. Coon Rapids Mayor Jeff Anthofer says, “This is a moment of pride for our entire community. We’ve always known Coon Rapids is a special place for outdoor adventure, and now the rest of the country will too.” The city applied back in December to be part of the ADT system and has accepted additional responsibilities to maintain the 2.68-mile trail alongside the Middle Raccoon River. This includes promoting the trail through ADT signage and ensuring local businesses continue to support services needed by trail users. Coon Rapids Community Coordinator, Katie Mason, says, “Becoming an official Trail Town is a significant achievement for Coon Rapids. This designation not only recognizes our community’s efforts to promote outdoor recreation but also opens new opportunities for economic growth and tourism.” The trail has recently undergone significant improvements, including milling the old trail surface, patching, asphalt paving, tree trimming and removal, and the installation of erosion control measures. A joint ceremony celebrating the official designation and the reopening of the trail will be held on Saturday, June 21, at 10 a.m. at the Riverside Trailhead on East Bridge Street. All are welcome to attend to hear from local and national trail leaders, view the unveiling of new ADT signage, and participate in the first walk on the improved trail.
