Ashland to Celebrate Grand Opening of Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center’s New 2-Mile Paved Trail with Ribbon Cutting and Walks
ASHLAND — Fresh air, scenic views, and a brand-new way to enjoy the outdoors are waiting for Ashland residents this weekend. On Saturday, October 4 at 10 a.m., the Ashland County Park District will cut the ribbon on its newest feature at the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center—a fully paved, two-mile walking trail designed to make nature more accessible to everyone.
The event kicks off with an inaugural walk immediately following the ribbon cutting, with a second guided walk set for 5 p.m. for those who can’t attend in the morning.
Park District Commissioner Bob DeSanto couldn’t hide his enthusiasm for what this addition means to the community. “Whether you’re walking a baby in a stroller, using a walker or wheelchair, or just enjoying the outdoors, you’re going to love it,” DeSanto said. “It takes you through clover and pollinator fields, along the creek, and around our fishing pond. It’s dog-friendly too—just remember to bring a leash.”
Naturalist and Outreach Coordinator Mary Meixner added that the trail showcases the hidden gems of the 80-acre Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park, where the education center sits. “This is more than just the fishing pond people see from the road,” Meixner explained. “The trail winds through woods, wetlands, grasslands, and meadows, with breathtaking sunrises and agrarian views of Ashland County. It’s really special.”
Even better, the project was made possible entirely through state grant funding, including Clean Ohio and H2Ohio programs, meaning no local operational dollars were used. Meixner noted that more improvements are on the way, including plans for future boardwalks and potential trail connections to nearby Byers Woods.
For those who aren’t up for the full two miles, shorter loop options are available. “If you’re not in shape for the full trail, we’ve got a cutoff to make it closer to a mile,” DeSanto joked.
The park district hopes the new trail will bring families, hikers, and nature-lovers together. “Every day, our mission is to make Ashland County a better place to live,” DeSanto said. “This trail is just one more way we can serve the community.”
The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center is located off State Route 60 near County Road 1754, across from Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic. The public is encouraged to attend either the 10 a.m. ribbon cutting and walk or the 5 p.m. guided walk to celebrate the opening of this major park improvement.
