A public meeting held Thursday was the latest step in the the Town of Hodges' efforts to obtain an easement on Tennessee Valley Authority and Bear Creek Development Authority property for its horse trail.
The meeting allowed citizen input on Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park's application for an ongoing recreation land use agreement for construction and maintenance of a proposed 17-mile trail on TVA/BCDA property.
Mike Franklin, Hodges police chief and Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park director, said the proposed trail would impact 16 acres of TVA/BCDA property.
“This is just one step toward adding to the existing horse trails we have currently on private land,” Franklin said. “There are currently 20 miles of trail. Ultimately, we hope to have a 37-mile trail, in addition to our hiking and walking trails in Rock Bridge Canyon.”
Once constructed, the additional trail would enhance the rapidly growing popularity of Franklin County's newest tourist attraction. The park has 35 campsites and additional primitive campsites in the canyon and surrounding area. Additionally, the park has a cabin and camper for rental.
“Last weekend we were completely full, with each campsite having four to six people,” Franklin said. “We're seeing an increase in activity here at the park, and many of our guests are staying three days or more.
"Most of our horse riders are leisure riders. They're like hikers who enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy their leisurely time. They just enjoy riding horses as part of that."
Park officials have organized activities for campers most Saturday nights at the Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park arena. Recent activities have included barrel racing, trail competitions, a St. Patrick's Day parade and a donkey ranch rodeo.
The application for the land use agreement is not new. Franklin said the multi-step process is in its latter stages and Thursday's meeting was simply the next step.
The new trail would be open for public use for riding or hiking at no charge, although all users will be required to purchase a BCDA user permit.
Since TVA officials will ultimately make the final decision on the application, Franklin said there's no scheduled date for construction to begin.
“There's not a timeframe. But it can't be done soon enough for me," Franklin said. "This will be a big addition to the equestrian park. Even when we get the agreement, it may take several years to complete the trail, depending on environmental issues and the type of trail agreed upon. And, of course, money factors into that, too."
