Henderson to host National Trails Day on Saturday

Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008 | midnight

Hoping to raise awareness of the city's network of trails, Henderson will host National Trails Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Henderson Events Plaza.

"We've learned through surveys that a lot of folks aren't aware we have these trails," Jennifer Magby, Henderson outdoor recreation coordinator, said. "We want to make them aware of what the opportunities are and encourage them to use the parks."

To further that goal, Henderson is offering trail discovery tours, one covering West Henderson from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and the other showcasing East Henderson from noon to 1:30 p.m. Both bus tours depart from the Events Plaza.

"We'll take interested participants out to show them where the trails are — current and future — as well as the parks," Magby said.

Exhibitors will also be on hand, including a Mojave Max character, the Red Rock Canyon Interpretive Association and REI, which will give demonstrations on how to select the right bike, how to properly fit a bike and how to pick the right type of hiking boot.

The Trails Day will include an announcement and display of the winners of the Henderson Trails Photo Contest as well.

A number of speakers will also be in attendance. Alan O'Neil of the Outside Las Vegas Foundation will give an overview of space and trails in the Las Vegas Valley, and parks planner Patricia Ayala will discuss current park projects in the city. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area Planner Robbie McAvoy will explain plans for connecting Henderson trails to the area.

"We want to recognize the whole regional trail system and all the entities trying to come together to form a regional trail system," Magby said.

Dave Clark can be reached at 990-2677 or dave.clark@hbcpub.com.