New equestrian step-up finished in Molalla River recreation area

Representatives of the Molalla River Watch watershed council and the Bureau of Land Management completed the installation of a new equestrian mounting platform at Hardy Creek trailhead in the Molalla River Recreation Area on June 6.

Molalla River Watch board members Bill Taylor, Scott Trexler, Cub Hale, and Karen Frogner with BLM Cascades Field Office Park manager Mark Marshall worked to install a concrete base with two large bluestone steps. Marshall and his staff operated the heavy machinery to place the stone steps, but the cost of materials was covered by private donations to the trail system.

The platform honors Becky Wolf, a founding member of Molalla River Watch and long-time trails advocate. After her retirement from the board, members wanted to recognize her decades of service.

In the early ‘90s, when the BLM took over management of the Molalla River Corridor through a land swap, equestrian Becky Wolf and mountain biker Mark Flint met with the BLM’s recreation manager to plan and construct the Molalla Corridor trails. Through their efforts and with numerous volunteers, the current trail system provides enjoyment to many recreation users.

Wolf was on hand to witness the finishing touches and was happy to see it finally installed, hoping the addition is appreciated by all who use it.

“Equestrian groups and individuals had been requesting it for years and had donated money for its completion. I am very passionate about equestrian involvement on the trail system in the corridor. We have been a part of it since the beginning,” Wolf said. “Many thanks to the BLM and volunteers who made it happen.”

The mounting platform is now ready for use and will give equestrians a boost for many years to come.