Celebration of Mexican Ditch Trail bridges on Saturday

Trail users will get a chance to check out the two new bridges along the Mexican Ditch Trail on Saturday during a ribbon cutting and race.

"Mayor (Bob) Crowell will be present for the ribbon cutting, which will be followed by a 5k run and 1-mile walk/kids run," said Ann Bollinger, natural resource specialist for the Carson City Parks and Recreation Department. "It is free to attend the ribbon cutting, or just $10 to register for the race

event and receive a T-shirt."

One of the bridges is a repair of an existing bridge that was beginning to weaken. The new bridge is wider and more equestrian friendly, Bollinger said.

The second bridge is new and connects the trail to the Silver Saddle Ranch, where a network of trails begin, also connecting to the Prison Hill trail system.

Bollinger said the race presents an ideal opportunity to become familiar with the extended trail.

"Especially this time of year, it's so beautiful," she said. "The pastures are green, the cattle are out and the shrubs are blooming. Depending on how far you walk, you can hear the birds."

Racers will travel north along the Mexican Ditch Trail, and the 5k will continue around Riverview Park.

The ribbon cutting and starting line will be at the south bridge. To get there, park along Buzzy's Ranch Road, and walk between the homes addressed 1631 and 1561 to the Mexican Ditch Trail. Turn right and walk south about 800 feet, past the horse corrals, to the new bridge.

It is free to walk along the trail, but $10 for a T-shirt and race entry.

Register at Fleet Feet or online at www.carson-city.nv.us/Index.aspx?page=621. Bib and T-shirt pickup will be today through Friday.

The race coincides with National Trails Day, the largest and only nationwide trails and outdoor celebration.

WHAT: Mexican Ditch Trail ribbon cutting and 5k and 1-mile walk/kids run

WHEN: Ribbon cutting at 9 a.m. Race begins at 9:15 a.m. Saturday

WHERE: South bridge of Mexican Ditch Trail

REGISTER: Fleet Feet or online at www.carson-city.nv.us/Index.aspx?page=621