by Margo Christensen, Ponderosa Hotel Management Services, LLC/Board Chair, City of Prescott Tourism Advisory Committee
The kids are out of school and the spring winds are behind us (hopefully), so now is the time to head out and hit the trails and lakes. Thanks to the amazing staff at the City of Prescott Parks and Recreation Department as well as all the dedicated volunteers such as the Over the Hill Gang, we have new trails to explore in Prescott. The recent purchase of 160 acres of Storm Ranch has led to the development of the Easter Island Trail, named after its unusual rock formations and its opening on Easter Weekend this year. “All the Storm trails will eventually total about six miles by the end of 2018,” says Chris Hosking, City of Prescott Trails and Natural Parkland Coordinator. “The feedback I’ve received from local hikers is that Easter Island is the best trail in Prescott. It’s quiet, there are meadows as well as expansive views. You get a real sense of how big the Dells really are,” says Chris. The easiest way to access the new trails is to park at the Peavine Trailhead near the Humane Society and walk 1.5 miles up the Peavine to the new trails.
Another new development is the paved parking area at the Constellation Trail. With the new roundabout in front of Phippen Museum, access to the Constellation Trail is easier than ever! Upon completion of the roundabout this summer, a 15 foot bronze statue will be positioned in the middle of the roundabout and will be the crown jewel of this project. This will provide an artistic welcome to Prescott and create a positive visual entrance into The Dells for our visitors coming from the north.
And speaking of visitors, we know from surveys that hiking our trails is in the top three activities enjoyed by visitors, next to visiting the Courthouse Square (#1) and dining (#2). Approximately 60% of our sales tax revenue is generated from visitor spending, whether it be day-trippers or overnight visitors (according to credit card data provided by Buxton specific to Prescott). Keeping our visitors entertained while keeping the quality of life optimal for our residents is a fine balance. Our trails are a great example of an attraction that appeals to visitors from around the world and very special to our local residents as well. We owe a big thanks to our City Parks and Recreation staff and trail volunteers for their dedication and excellence. Happy Hiking!
