John Wayne Trail displays Washington’s beauty

We live in a beautiful place. I look out and see sagebrush and late blooming native flowers, wheat stubble, millennia-old scab rock, and sky. Big, blue sky. Our semi-arid desert climate can be harsh and abrasive; little rain, drastic temperatures, and that darned wind. This is where we live, a place to take pride in; a place I love to share with friends, family, and strangers. I’m sure you do, too.

It was recently brought to light that one of our few state recreational resources was nearly lost to us last month. Nearly 130 miles of the 300-mile long John Wayne Trail was set to be closed as part of the 2015 capital budget. And, but for a typo, would be lost to us now WITHOUT public comment.

Much of this section of the trail is undeveloped/underdeveloped and underutilized. This is not a reason to close it. In fact, it’s the very reason to develop it; add trail access and publicize the availability of this path for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

The trail is a physical link between Eastern and Western Washington and crosses the state in its entirety. Is there a better way to display the ageless beauty of the Channeled Scablands then to have people explore it on foot, bike, or by horse? I don’t think so.

I urge everyone to learn more about this issue. Support the trail. Invite your friends, your family, and strangers to bike, walk, or ride the trail with you. It’s a great way to show off our magnificent landscape.

Morgane Plager Roth, Paha, WA