June 1st marks a special day for Macon’s outdoor enthusiasts and community members alike. Trails Day Macon is here to celebrate and support the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail (OHT), a trail that offers diverse activities from hiking and biking to running and exploring nature. This day is packed with unique tours and a special party, all in support of our local trails.
Linear Park/Walnut Street Hard Hat Tour
Kick off your morning with the Linear Park/Walnut Street Hard Hat Tour at 11:30 AM. This tour will take you through the historical Pleasant Hill Neighborhood, unveiling the plans spurred by the Georgia Department of Transportation’s mitigation efforts. Dive into the history and the transformative future of Linear Park, learning about the ongoing community engagement and the final visions for this green space. It’s a chance to see firsthand the impact of urban development on local communities and landscapes. More details and tickets on sale here.
OHT Photo Walk
Hey Middle Georgia creatives! Join the OHT Photo Walk, led by Jave Bjorkman, along Jackson Springs Park at 5 PM. Capture the natural beauty of the OHT through your lens with professional tips from Bjorkman, the Founder and Creative Director of And So We Go Productions. This tour will guide you along picturesque segments of the trail, perfect for both seasoned photographers and novices looking to improve their photo-taking skills. More details and tickets on sale here.
Behind the Scenes of the Trail Bike Tour
At 9:30 AM, grab your bike for the Behind the Scenes of the Trail Bike Tour. Explore new sections of the OHT, guided by local experts Bill Causey, a retired Macon-Bibb County Engineer, and Erin Keller from NewTown Macon. Learn about the complexities of trail planning and construction, and discuss the successful fundraising efforts that have supported the expansion of the trail. This tour is perfect for cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels who are interested in the backstory and future of Macon’s trail system. More details and tickets on sale here.
Storytime + The Trails Day Adventure Challenge
Join Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful for storytime at Amerson River Park at 11:00 AM and 11:45 AM during Trails Day! Gather near the playground by the NewTown event flag, where kids and families can bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an outdoor reading of ‘All the Way to the Ocean’ by Joel Harper. This fun story teaches about protecting our waterways. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to pick up a “Trails Day Adventure Challenge.” Embark on an action-packed journey on the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. Complete your challenge and bring it to the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail Master Plan Reveal Party at Fall Line Brewing Co. from 6-8 PM to celebrate your accomplishment and win some prizes!
Rose Hill After Dark Tour
Conclude your tour day with the Rose Hill After Dark Tour at 9 PM. Embark on a nighttime flashlight tour of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. Led by Bill Causey, a devoted member of the OHT committee with a deep passion for Rose Hill Cemetery, and Hailie Poppell, NewTown Macon’s Digital Content Manager, this tour is sure to keep you entertained. As you wander the shadowy paths, illuminated only by flashlights, they will guide you through the next phase of the trail, blending fascinating insights into the cemetery’s historical significance. Tickets are limited to just 40 people, at $30 per person. More details and tickets on sale here.
Ocmulgee Heritage Trail Master Plan Reveal Party
As the sun sets, join us at Fall Line Brewing Co. from 6-8 PM for the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail Master Plan Reveal Party. We will unveil a visionary 25-year master plan for the OHT, discuss future projects, and celebrate with the exclusive Trail Blazer beer, where proceeds will help fund trail improvements. This is a great opportunity to engage with other community members, provide input, and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
Support the Trail
All funds raised from ticket sales and donations during Trails Day will directly benefit the OHT, helping to maintain and expand this vital community asset. Whether you’re participating in a tour or attending the reveal party, your involvement contributes to the continued development of Macon’s trails.
Tickets are limited, so secure yours now to ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible experiences. Visit NewTown Macon’s Donation Page to make donations, or click the links above to buy tickets. Join us in celebrating the great outdoors and making a lasting impact on our community’s future.