The Annual Spirit Trail Cleanup scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday, April 7) has been postponed.  This second delay is once again caused by weather. 

Those who want to support the Spirit Trail should meet at 9 am on Saturday, April 14, at the County Park (east end near the Community Center).  The committee asks you to bring rakes, shovels, brooms and your energy.   Dan Omo, of the Trail committee, is leading the effort.

The Clark Lake Spirit Trail would not exist without volunteers.  It’s people like you who donate their time to keep it looking great.

It’s said that history doesn’t repeat itself, but it does rhyme.  Today’s snow is a reminder of April 2016 when April showers turned into snowfalls twice. On April 9th, 5-inches accumulated as you can see from these photos below.

This morning’s snow will likely be gone by tomorrow, but will leave a mess.  Temperatures will be in the low 20s overnight–today’s melt will likely turn into a freeze by tomorrow morning.

Volunteers are also active throughout the year watching for and repairing path wash-outs, trimming low hanging branches, and mowing.  From time to time, there are major infrastructure repairs such as the complete overhaul of the section next to the post office at the west end. Seasonal freezes and thaws plus some vehicle traffic had caused significant deterioration.  The pavement was found not to be a firm foundation, but turned spongy with runoff.  Through monetary donations to the Spirit Trail this section was completely repaired and upgraded.

Another example of a major project was the extension between Rita and Grand Boulevard.  This new section allowed cyclists, walkers and runners to avoid traffic along the North Lake curve. Donations to the Spirit Trail can be made through the Clark Lake Spirit  Foundation, a 501c3.  They can be mailed to PO Box 224, Clarklake, MI 49234 or made via credit card through this website.

The Trail committee met recently to work on plans for the coming year that includes repainting barrier poles, erecting additional guidance signage, placement of benches, and general maintenance. Tucker Boyers was elected co-chair and will share leadership duties with Ann Swain.

l to r: Rick Belcher, Bob Lajdziak, Tucker Boyers, Peggy Collins, Pat Dwyer, Don Fowler, Dan Omo, Kristy Allen. Not pictured: Ann Swain

The Trail circles the lake, about 7.3 miles. It provides a path for runners, walkers, and cyclists to enjoy multiple views of the lake, neighborhoods and nature.  And it does so on a variety of surfaces.