BETA celebrates completion of Jackrabbit Ski Trail Keene trailhead

We are so excited to announce the official opening of the new Keene trailhead for the Jackrabbit Ski Trail, marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, February 22nd.

This ceremony was a small event out of respect for Bob Harris and his family, but it was no small number of folks who made this project a reality.

​We'd like to extend our deepest gratitude to Bob Harris. “This project was made possible almost entirely through the (financial) generosity of Bob Harris,” said Glenn Glover, executive director of BETA. “A long time outdoorsman who cared deeply about this region and about securing permanent public access to the Jackrabbit Trail, Bob passed away last fall before seeing this project completed -- but his gift made the trailhead, bridges, and long-term access, which we will enjoy for a long time, possible.”

​We honor his legacy with the dedication of Bob's Bridge, the 66' bridge over Nichol's Brook nearest to the trailhead. After the ribbon cutting, Glenn installed an honorary plaque at the trailhead kiosk so others may learn of Bob, his generosity, and his values.

We'd also like to thank Joe Pete Wilson and Theresa Cheetham-Palen, town supervisor and council member of Keene; Assemblyman Michael Cashman; North Elba's supervisor Richard Preston; NYS DEC; ROOST, and specifically Adam DeSantis; Bob Harris' children Kyle and Sarah for their continued support of this project and for being with us at the ribbon cutting; the trail crew who worked tirelessly for months to bring it over the finish line; the supporters who have been with us since the trail’s beginning 40 years ago; and the many hundreds of BETA members who love and steward this trail for today and tomorrow.

The Jackrabbit Ski Trail is a unique and precious resource. It is your dedication, care, and goodwill that has not only established this trail but maintained and updated it throughout the years. We humbly serve the trail as stewards and advocates; the trail serves us as a means of connection to nature, to ourselves, and to one another.

We hope you get out on the trail soon and see for yourself why the Jackrabbit is so near and dear to so many. See you out there.

This story was also featured in Adirondack Explorer in an article skillfully written by Tim Rowlands.  Thank you Tim for such a great piece about this project, the people involved, and the ceremony to celebrate it all.