New Directional Sign

By Mari Radtke
The McCormack Area Horse Trails opened officially to the public on Monday May 17, 2021. Out of the 20 acres of McCormack Area promoted by OCCB to be used for horse trails, 7 acres are accessible from Wilson Avenue, on the west side of the Waterman Creek. So far, trails have been marked and cleared by volunteers and Conservation staff making 1956 feet of cleared trail available, about 4.33 acres or one half mile. Additional clearing on the 7 acres is expected to provide additional trail distance in the wooded area on already existing deer paths. Volunteer enthusiasts and Back Country Horsemen Association will work on adding trail space.
Parking for the trails are located on DNR parking space at “Burned Bridge” area located a mile north of Highway 10 on Wilson Avenue, then a sharp right into the parking. A ride along Waterman Avenue which can be done off the road in the ditch for approximately a half mile leads a rider to county owned railroad bed which has been cleared and available to ride to the dirt road Wilson Avenue, about another half mile. On Wilson Avenue about a half mile is the entrance to McCormack Area.
Trails that are ready are marked with stakes and flags. The trails take a rider up hill over sandy (glacier land) hills up into wooded area overlooking the meandering Waterman Creek just north of its junction with the Little Sioux River.
A nature enthusiast walking or riding horse back can enjoy the beauty and solitude of the open spaces while touring through the home of wildlife like deer, turkey and other birds. The area is a popular hunting ground located next to DNR land. May 17 is the first day after turkey hunting season closes.
Back Country Horsemen Association (BCHA) has been generously helpful with identifying potential trails and even providing a grant for directional trail signs.
Hike the hill or ride the trails. McCormack Area is a beautiful place to spend time.