Today is Celebrate Trails Day, and there will be an event for bike enthusiasts on a popular recreation trail in Dallas and Guthrie Counties.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association is holding a bike ride for people who’d like to observe the holiday. Treasurer Kevin Leininger describes the premise behind the designation is to recognize trails throughout the world, and the celebration began with the Rails to Trails Conservancy in 2013. 

He explains the RRVTA is inviting riders out to a 24-mile bike ride on the trail that starts in Guthrie County in Yale, traveling to Linden in Dallas County and returning back to Yale. Leininger tells Raccoon Valley Radio that the ride is not competitive, allowing participants to go at their own pace. He elaborates that the day honors all the great paths in the state.

“(It’s) to encourage people to get outdoors and explore trails in their community, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts, local organizations, and community groups for activities like hiking, biking, walking, and other recreational events. The goal of the Celebrate Trails Day is to highlight the importance of the trail and the green ways for health, sustainability, and connectivity as well as the benefits for individuals in communities.”

Leininger acknowledges the ride begins at noon and costs $10 per rider. As of Friday, Leininger says that 49 riders are registered, but encourages others to sign up. The link to register is available here. Motorists are also encouraged to be aware of bicycle traffic near the trail between Yale and Linden.