Happy Arden Trails to You

Judy Kennedy | Oct 06, 2011

Photo: Glen Matson of Matson Contruction and other Friends of Ardern clear a roadway to the lookout.

Two weeks ago, two special events took place that are intended to benefit residents and visitors to the hamlet of Arden for years to come.

In addition to a location in the midst of several beautiful lakes, Arden's topography has provided a scenic lookout, which unfortunately has been accessible only to those fit and hardy enough to manage a lengthy hike through bush and up a series of steep rock faces.

With the approval of Central Frontenac Council as the property owner, Glen Matson, along with family members, Councillor Jeff Matson, Chad Matson and Donnie Scott, mobilized their construction equipment and undertook to provide access to the site. With a crew of volunteers, including Councillor Tom Dewey, ninety-two year-old Dorothy Proctor and 15 others working ahead clearing trees and brush, they built a road through the bush and up the hillside.

Approximately three-quarters of the way to the top, they constructed a small parking area that could accommodate four or five vehicles. The remainder of the trail to the top was then trimmed and raked. The result was the provision of accessibility for almost anyone, to a site that provides a scenic view for miles over the forest and surrounding lakes.

In addition, at the same time four of the local young people including Kaitlyn Scobie, Bailey and Michaela Paddick, and Cameron Scott, were tackling the staining of picnic tables at the community centre, beside the Millpond and in the Recreation Park, coordinated by Diane Nicolson and Wanda Harrison.

The two groups took a break together at noon to enjoy a lunch prepared by Betty Matson.

These two projects were part of the ongoing efforts of the Friends of Arden and represent two more significant steps toward the revitalization of the hamlet.

Next to be undertaken will be the blazing and clearing of a trail to the gorge south of Arden and the painting/staining of the canteen and facilities in the Recreation Park.

Residents in the Arden area are encouraged to watch for further information and are invited to join in the efforts to improve the hamlet and life in it.