Lacy Reid, sophomore exercise science major, took friends Caleb Bernui, Breanne Crain and Ben Melton to the trails during the snow days.
“Since there wasn’t much snow, it was kind of hard to find something to do outside with all the ice,” Reid said. “But we came up with the idea to go hiking through the woods. It was a simple yet fun way to get outside and be active.”
Clubs and organizations on campus have also used these trails for activities. Blake Hodges, junior marketing major and captain of the Union University debate team, said the trails have been a source of great memories for the team. Hodges personally enjoys using the trails because of the peaceful, natural environment.
“The Union woods provide us all with a unique escape into the wilderness in the middle of our busy lives,” Hodges said. “The importance of having such a refuge cannot be overstated.”
The trail system contains approximately five miles of running, hiking and mountain biking trails found west of the Pleasant Plains campus entrance. The trail system has two sections in order to fit the needs of beginner as well as intermediate athletes.The northern section is roughly three miles long and is the most difficult of the two trails with steep and challenging areas. The southern loop is approximately two miles long and has only a few steep areas.
During the daylight hours, university faculty, staff, students and the general public are welcome to enjoy the trails. The Union University website says it is important to remember that animals and plants must not be bothered along the trails, no motorized vehicles are permitted and there should be no fires or camping on the trails. Further, it advises people to be cautious when on the trails in muddy and slippery conditions.
Great article!
Great article!