What a difference a year makes.

On May 2, 2019, Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee received a grant from Next Level Trails for the Conklin Bay Project. Groundbreaking took place June 10, 2019, and construction began Oct. 13, 2019.

Conklin Bay Boardwalk and Trail officially opened May 20. This trail includes one-third of a mile of boardwalk that goes through the Rolland Wetland Conservation Area. A total of four overlook areas are available for trail users and nature enthusiasts to sit, observe and enjoy a natural lake ecosystem. The trail continues south with two-thirds of a mile concrete sidewalk, along SR 13, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation nature preserve and ends at Grandview Drive. While on the trail, users can explore three WACF’s walking trails through preserved and reclaimed wetlands.

The trail connects to Harkless Drive and parking is available at the entrance to WACF. To ensure the safety of walkers, bicyclist, and runners, no motorized vehicles are allowed, including golf carts. Trail amenities are being finalized. A public ribbon cutting is scheduled at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at the entrance to WACF.

Updated List Of Events

Tour des Lakes bike ride has been postponed until July 17, 2021. This will be the 10th year and the committee is planning a celebratory ride. A car show is being planned for Aug. 2, at Oakwood Resort. Tails and Trails is Oct. 24. Information about these events will be provided later this summer.

Syracuse-Wawasee Trail system is a network of walking/jogging/bicycling trails connecting the town of Syracuse, Syracuse Lake, and parts of Lake Wawasee. The trail system is administered by a trail committee of the Syracuse-Wawasee Park Foundation, a nonprofit organization. It is the vision of this committee to have a connected trail community. The new trail adds 1.37 miles to the existing 11 miles of trails continuing the vision of a connected trail throughout a vibrant community. It relies on public support to build and maintain 12-plus miles of trails.

To make a secure donation, visit www.syracusewawaseetrails.com. Like its Facebook page for updates and events.

Enjoy the trails this summer and remember the motto: “Life is better on the trail.”