Mt. St. Benedict Hiking Trail - Complete! 17/5/2020

BCHPA matched funding from the WCSC to offset construction expenses incurred during the Mt. St. Benedict (Benny) hiking trail project, which was initiated by a group of local volunteers. Benny has become an increasingly popular site due to its benign winds and excellent XC for pilots of all experience levels. However, launch access was limited to a rough, indirect and long logging road only suitable for 4x4 vehicles. Although some pilots hiked this road, many more longed for a shorter, more direct trail linking the parking lot to launch. John Weiland, a local pilot, recently organized a group of volunteers and provided local area expertise to make this project a reality. The BCHPA provided financial support by covering expenses including gas and equipment repair. Moving forward, the flying community will benefit through increased accessibility with a corresponding reduction in local environmental impact with less launch traffic. 

 "It was a pleasure to construct the new Benny’s trail situated in the scenic Miracle valley. This area offers some of the best paragliding in the Lower Mainland area. With a large LZ, beautiful waterfall and park together it was a simple thought. We needed a trail to link it all together. So in February of this year a group of us from the Local club decided to take on the challenge. It now leaves us with a quick way to access our launch in just over an hour. As well it adds a viable option to hikers who use the park area. Many thanks to all those who came out to volunteer"                                                                                                                                                                                                                - John Weiland 
The BCHPA encourages site development, maintenance and upgrades by providing financial support to local clubs and pilots. If you have a project in mind, don't hesitate to reach out! Contact your local BCHPA rep today under "About."

Sincerely, 
The BCHPA Board.