Murphy Creek Rec Area dedication set for June 5

By the explanation of what National Trails Day encompasses, it sounds like it could have been created right here in Mineral County: National Trails Day was established to celebrate, improve and enjoy America's magnificent trail system.

It is the nation's largest celebration of trails and all that goes with it.

In addition to the national trail system, there are countless miles of state, county and local town trail systems to be enjoyed.

National Trails Day is held on the first Saturday in June and with activities and family events taking place all over the country, an exciting day is on tap for everyone who attends the Murphy Creek Recreation Area for its official dedication.

Located four miles west of Superior on the Southside Road this will soon be known as a destination for locals.

First of all, if you’re new to the area or hearing about this latest site for the first time, the terrain is suited for both our elderly population and our younger families with children and pets for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

The proposed picnic area will provide a place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a sidebar of providing a look into our local forest management history.

The area has been thinned at least twice in the past, including back in the 1930s when work was done by workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps camp that was located near Superior.

“Murphy Creek has been a collaborative project from the very beginning. The Mineral County Resource Collaborative joined with the Superior Ranger District to design the forest health treatments and the recreational development of Murphy Creek,” said Carole Johnson, Superior District Ranger. “It is a project that our community and staff are really proud of and thanks to the funding and work accomplished, it is a place for all ages and abilities to enjoy.”

These efforts have resulted in a well-managed stand of healthy timber conducive to public recreation.

Actually, residents should know that the Murphy Creek Trail is a U.S. Forest Service coordinated project funded by a Recreational Trails Program grant from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

Heather Berman, Recreation and Range Staff, USFS, wrote the grants and the Mineral County Resource Coalition worked with her to provide letters of support for this project.

The Idaho Forest Group and the Mineral County Community Foundation provided the necessary matching funds for the grant. The first phase of the project, completed in 2020, provided for the construction of the parking lot, a 3.5-mile biking and hiking trail, and a vault toilet.

The second phase will be completed in 2022, which will include the addition of a one-half mile paved accessible walking trail and one to two "short-cut" trails, as well as picnic tables, benches, and interpretive signs.

The Forest Service, in coordination with the Mineral Resource Council, will be hosting a grand opening of this new trail system from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the trail head.

The schedule includes speakers starting at 10 a.m. and refreshments at 11:30 with an opportunity for people to explore the new trail system immediately following.

Although masks are not required, it is recommended that social distance guidelines be followed and leashed dogs are welcome for the hiking portion of the event.

Additionally, since parking is limited, carpooling whenever possible will be appreciated and seating is scarce, so lawn chairs are encouraged.

This will be a great opportunity to introduce the area to people, as well as a fun family-oriented event.