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Nearly 40 bicyclists, including a group from Sioux Falls, were on hand for the event and enjoyed the ride to Pipestone where the Friends of the Casey Jones Trail hosted hamburgers and hot dogs. -
Members of the Friends of the Casey Jones Trail, along with State Representative Joe Schomacker, Pipestone Commissioner Dallas Roskamp, and DNR representative Chris Ingrebretson, celebrated the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the final two miles of paving. This achievement officially extends the trail from Woodstock to Pipestone.
The Friends of the Casey Jones Trail proudly celebrated a major milestone with a ribbon- cutting ceremony on Sunday, September 8th. This event marked the official opening of the final paved segment in the 12-mile stretch of the Casey Jones Trail, extending from Woodstock to Pipestone.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at the trail’s new paved section, was attended by nearly 40 enthusiastic cyclists, including several from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The event drew the attention from local leaders, including Pipestone County Commissioner Dallas Roskamp and State Representative Joe Schomacker.
Commissioner Roskamp highlighted the need for additional funding to support further development of the trail. Representative Schomacker echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of legislative bonding to sustain progress. “The Casey Jones Trail is more than a recreational asset; it’s a catalyst for regional connectivity and economic growth,” said Schomacker. “By linking our communities and attracting visitors, the trail fosters both family activities and economic benefits for our local businesses.”
The Friends of the Casey Jones Trail have been instrumental in advocating for the trail’s expansion and maintenance. Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the trail is a treasured resource in southwestern Minnesota. Named after the famed railroad engineer Casey Jones, who sacrificed his life to mitigate a train crash in Mississippi, the trail was the state’s first abandoned railroad grade acquisition.
Currently, the Casey Jones State Trail comprises three distinct sections: a 12-mile paved stretch from Pipestone to Woodstock, a 1.5-mile natural surface segment leading into Lake Wilson, and a 6-mile paved loop connecting End-OLine Railroad Park & Museum in Currie to Lake Shetek State Park. The vision for the trail includes a continuous route stretching from Split Rock Creek State Park to Walnut Grove.
The Friends of the Casey Jones Trail continue to play a crucial role in advancing the trail’s development and ensuring its preservation for future generations. Their dedication helps connect communities and enhance the regional landscape through this multi-use recreational trail.
For more information about the Casey Jones Trail and ongoing efforts, please visit Friends of the Casey Jones Trail Facebook page.
