New Jenkins Trail to join Bonnie’s Trails in Lexington

LEXINGTON—A new 1.6-mile trail will officially become part of Lexington’s Bonnie’s Trails system on October 3, with a dedication ceremony followed by a community trail-maintenance day.

At 10 a.m. on October 3, residents, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to gather for the dedication of the Jenkins Trail, a new 1.6-mile addition to the Bonnie’s Trails network. The trail is named in honor of the Jenkins family, one of Lexington’s oldest families and one with a long history of active civic involvement in the community.

Following the dedication, volunteers will be invited to participate in a trail-maintenance day, one of two held each year to help keep Bonnie’s Trails in good condition. Volunteers will work on tasks such as clearing trails and repairing and maintaining trail signs.

The Lexington Hiking Club, which serves as caretaker of Bonnie’s Trails, applied to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for an amendment to its original 2021 permit. The amendment allows for both the new trail and a second parking area. The permit was approved approximately six weeks ago, and members of the Hiking Club have been working ever since to prepare the trail for its opening.

The new parking area is being constructed by the Lexington Highway Department, under the direction of Kevin Simpson, Lexington’s highway superintendent.

A Trail Through Lexington’s Past

The Jenkins Trail is the result of a process that has been nearly a decade in the making. Its addition became possible following the DEP’s purchase of a parcel of land adjoining Bonnie’s Trails, significantly expanding the acreage available to the trail system.

The new trail connects with the existing network at both ends, creating a loop through a landscape that tells part of Lexington’s agricultural history. What were once working farms are now home to mature forests of hardwoods and evergreens.

Along the way, hikers will encounter some remarkable natural landmarks: a massive, aging oak tree that seems almost prehistoric in size, towering hemlocks and a hilltop overlook offering beautiful views across the surrounding forests.

Like the rest of Bonnie’s Trails, the Jenkins Trail was designed with cross-country skiing in mind. But its appeal will extend well beyond the winter months. Hikers, snowshoers, trail runners and anyone looking for a quiet walk through the woods will be able to enjoy the new route.

After nearly ten years of planning and preparation, the Jenkins Trail is almost ready to welcome the public.

Celebrating Bonnie’s Legacy

The dedication will take place at the Jenkins Trail trailhead, across the street from 785 Beech Ridge Road South. The rain date is October 4.

Bonnie’s Trails are named for Bonnie Blader, a beloved Lexington citizen and community activist whose hard work, dedication and joyful spirit helped make Lexington the special place it is today.

The opening of the Jenkins Trail continues that legacy—bringing people together to care for the land, enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the community that makes Lexington home.