Trail improvements are now complete in Somersby Park. Hikers will notice the new steps to Dee’s Memorial Trail on Somersby Parkway.
These improvements join the new steps and railings installed on the upper end of Bonehead Ascension Trail and to the entrance of Bacchus’ Run Trail across from the intersection of Thistlewind Trail road.
The trails have also been treated to keep the trails clear of growth for the growing season. The work has been completed as part of the Common Area Committee work plan for 2020, approved by the Board and ratified in the budget at the annual meeting this year.
Residents should be aware that the upper part of Bacchus’ Run Trail on Somersby Parkway near the intersection of Ladys Fern Trail is not being improved at this time because of erosion further down the trail.
For all of us confined to our homes at this time due to COVID-19 health concerns, a nice walk involves Bonehead Ascension Trail beginning from the parking lot above the first pond and continues to the top of Bacchus’ Run Trail to Thistlewind Trail road. Proceed to the improved entrance way as Bacchus’ Run Trail continues into the woods. Enjoy the hike as it merges with Domber’s Sunset Trail to the lower end of Ladys Fern Trail. You can return either by the roads or loop back.
The residents of Somersby Park are fortunate to enjoy four ponds near the entrance to the community. The area is surrounded by walking trails, observation piers, picnic tables and waterfalls. Spearheaded by the Common Area Committee, work is underway to clean the first pond that is naturally fed by a mountain creek. Fish and wildlife were removed before silt and other material started to be hauled away. 40 truck loads will be necessary to move the material to a location where it will be spread out and re-vegetated. Such a project renews Somersby Park’s commitment to preserve natural beauty for all residents to enjoy for years to come.
Somersby Park offers natural amenities like walking trails. There are several maintained paths throughout the private community and enjoyed by residents.
The names are interesting and the following is the history behind each one.
Bonehead Ascension Trail – from Chris – I affectionately call my grandchildren Bonehead at times, & one of my grandchildren, Clarklyn, used to visit us frequently & walk the trails with me. She even helped me clean up one of the trails. That particular trail is not very long, but it ends up with a pretty steep climb to the top. The name Bonehead Ascension was my way to remember her & our times of walking those trails.
Bacchus Run Trail – from John – Early on when I was a homeowner at Somersby I became involved with the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Henderson County. I asked the neighbors if they would be wiling to form a team. Many agreed. We arranged a dinner through Scott at First Street Wood Fired Pizza. It was held on a Monday night when the restaurant was normally closed. Scott didn’t charge us for the space. Most if not all of the members of the team served and bused the tables. We charged for the dinner and had both a live auction and a silent auction. We did this for about 3 years, maybe 4. I think in our best year we raised about $7K+. Now to the trails. I was looking for an additional way to raise money. I realized that the trails had no names. After receiving permission from the developer and the team we agreed to auction off naming the trails. My dog Bacchus and I walked the trails often. I was high bid and named one after my dog, Bacchus. Chris named one and Tom another. It turned out to be a good additional fund raiser. You could consider asking those who have named the trails, like myself, if they would mind if you auctioned off the names of the trails again, to raise additional money for BBBS. I certainly would agree. Just a thought.
Tom’s Trail – from Tom – You may be thinking that Tom’s Trail has some connection to me. The Greens (may they rest in peace) named that trail in honor of a good friend who had died.
Domber’s Sunset Trail – from Kristen and John – When surveying Somersby Park for their future home, they noticed the beautiful sunset across from their lot. They participated in the auctioning of names and came up with Domber which is a combination of Kristen’s maiden last name and now both John and Kristen’s married last names.
Dee’s Memorial Trail – from Virginia – When resident Dee lost her life, two fellow residents stepped forth to remember her. Virginia and Brenda made donations to name the trail for their friend and neighbor.
Kangaroo Falls Trail – Joey is the name of a baby kangaroo, so how appropriate to declare the trail and falls after Gary’s oldest grandson Joey. An added bonus, the iron enriched springs have colored the waterfall rocks orange, similar to that of a kangaroo.
Trail improvements are underway in Somersby Park. New steps and railings are yours to be discovered at entrances to two main trails, Bacchus’ Run Trail and Bonehead Ascension Trail. More improvements are in the works too for other walking paths around the neighborhood. The community trail system is another reason why residents love calling Somersby Park home. Photos courtesy of Tammy. Additional photos click here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/rDVennB5BM4FNNqm8
Some of our best friends are the furry kind. Take a look at some of our good memories of Somersby Park pets throughout the years. https://photos.app.goo.gl/W8c769QQe7JY13UNA
