Trail Talk – Dec 2015/Jan 2016

Let me start by introducing myself! My name is Omer Kem, husband/dad/business owner in that order. My wife, son and I recently moved back to Jacksonville after spending two years away living in Ashland. We are so very excited to be back in what we feel is “trail heaven.”

My commitment to Jacksonville and its trails culminated several years ago when I became a board member of the Jacksonville Woodlands Association and also started putting on a trail running event in Jacksonville’s Forest Park. Even after moving away from town, I stayed involved with the JWA and also continued putting on our event in Forest Park drawing about 100 people a year for the 5k and 10k races.

Since moving back, I can honestly say that between the Woodlands and Forest Park, Jacksonville has some of, if not the best, trail systems in Oregon. They are well-maintained and remote enough for a safe escape into the woods. And, with the number of benches—sometimes in places you definitely wouldn’t expect to find them—there’s also an opportunity to stop, relax and really enjoy your surroundings.

A personal favorite of mine is a brand new trail in Forest Park, the “Claimjumper Trail.” This trail is a “point-to-point trail,” connecting the uppermost parking lot on the west side of the park with several trails, namely the Leg Burner and Jackson Ridge Trails. The mild gradient is perfect for a hike with kids and/or dogs—just be sure to stop at the several viewpoints along the way.

Jacksonville is trail heaven and volunteering to help keep it that is way simple. The Jacksonville Woodlands Association has a volunteer email list that keeps interested people informed of trail work and maintenance days. It can be found at www.jvwoodlands.org.

Now get out and enjoy our heavenly trails!