Outdoor More + More

PINEHURST PARK CELEBRATES CONTINUED REC-RELATED IMPROVEMENTS

THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY’S LOCAL BIKE AND SNOW PARK DESTINATION IS CLAD WITH specially created and groomed spaces for winter activities galore, including its hockey and general skating rink, lighted cross country ski trails, the hiking, ski, and snowboard terrain park area, and more. Last year was a big one for Pinehurst, with hopes for 2023 to mark the fruition of more projects.

Construction and renovations at Pinehurst in Eau Claire have been ongoing for about a decade. OutdoorMore Inc.’s mission as a nonprofit to work with the City of Eau Claire’s Parks and Recreation Department to reinvent the area, striving to offer a variety of outdoor rec activities in one spot.

OutdoorMore Board Secretary Andy Wians said they are still working towards the ongoing lift installation project, slated for completion in 2023, which will be Eau Claire’s only skiing and tubing lift.

Still, in 2022, Pinehurst Park saw a new wave of young snowboarders participate in snowboard lessons at its hill, the creation of new mountain bike trails, and a milestone moment when it unveiled the Chippewa Valley’s first paved pump-track, which can be used by bikers and boarders alike.

“As I reflect on the last year, I can’t help but feel excited for the future ahead. We continue to see more and more people using the park each year, and more people stepping up to lend a hand where they can,” Wians said. “Pinehurst is a community park, and the community aspect really shines bright as we see people of all ages taking ownership of the projects they feel passionate about.”

Plus, Pinehurst Park is one of several places in the area that offers free gear rentals for seasoned recreation lovers and newbies alike. Gear Share at Pinehurst Park is available when the warming house is open and staffed – currently from 4-7pm – and folks can checkout sleds and snowshoes for free.

Visit pinehurstpark.org for more information and keep up with them on Facebook (@ThePinehurstProject).