News from the Executive Director |
|
Dear Cap Trail Community,
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to support the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. Our volunteers' commitment and enthusiasm in supporting various aspects of our mission have made a significant impact on what we do. Whether it was volunteering at a trail clean-up, lifting heavy things at an event, serving on our board of directors, completing a patrol as a trail ambassador or any other task, your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed.
With Gratitude,
Cat Anthony
Executive Director
|
|
Construction at Four Mile Creek Trailhead (MM 40) is ongoing with an estimated water and sewer completion towards the end of July 2024. The Trail will remain open.
Construction near Great Shiplock Park (MM 51 - MM 51.2). Construction is under way for James River Association's education center which includes a reroute of the Virginia Capital Trail off of Dock St. Please use caution. The grand opening is slated for summer 2024.
|
|
Summer Challenge Kicks Off |
|
The first month of the Cap Trail Summer Challenge presented by Atlantic Union bank is wrapping up. What an impressive start with 51 participants already logging over 51.7 miles both on and off the Trail! Congratulations, Trail crushers!
|
|
Conquer the Cap Trail Medal |
|
|
|
There's still time to join the Cap Trail Summer challenge! You choose the activity & challenge level that is right for you. Then log your miles, compete with friends, and earn prizes.
New for 2023, top prizes in multiple categories, monthly rest stop support, the first ever Conquer the Trail finisher medal, and an end of summer party at Cul's Courthouse Grille.
|
|
|
|
We are thrilled to welcome Kishana McDonald, to the VCTF team as our Administrative Coordinator!
Kishana has many years of experience with office administration in both government and nonprofits. Not a Virginia native but someone who, like many others, fell in love with the vibrant outdoors, welcoming communities, and great food. Her passions include travel and water, anything on a river, ocean, or lake.
"VCTF is an exciting and engaging place to work. I'm happy to be part of a team that helps build connections in the community."
|
|
$20,000 for Outdoor Programs |
|
|
|
On July 1st, applications open for our third Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund, making available $20,000 for outdoor recreation and education. Eligible nonprofits that build programs and projects that increase equitable access to the Capital Trail are encouraged to apply. The funding range is between $1,000 to $5,000.
We are extremely grateful to Dominion Energy, Bon Secours, and our Trail supporters for providing this wonderful opportunity.
Application deadline is August 11, 2023.
|
|
|
|
Drum roll... we are thrilled to announce the winner of our Cap Trail t-shirt contest! Congratulations, Finley A!
What does Finley love about the Trail?
"I enjoy walking, biking, and running on the trail with my family and enjoy seeing other people, pets, and wildlife." - Finley
We love how her artwork showcases all the fun you can have on the Capital Trail!
Get your shirt or sticker with Finley's artwork by visiting our Trail store.
|
|
|
|
Scout Troop 888 from Midlothian completed their first half century ride last month on the Capital Trail!
The 50-mile ride was the final requirement the Scouts needed to earn their cycling merit badge. Something they had been working on since early March. Badge requirements included learning basic bike maintenance, safety, and repair, honing their bike skills, and completing numerous rides ranging from 10 - 50 miles.
Their final trek on the Capital Trail featured wildlife sightings (several deer, a turtle, and a black snake), a delicious lunch at Indian Fields Tavern, ice-cream at Spoke & Art, and camping at Chickahominy Riverfront Park Campground. Way to go Troop, 888!
|
Email us your Trail shout-out to see it featured in an upcoming newsletter!
|
|
Capital Trail Jerseys Are Back |
|
|
|
Are you ready to show off your Trail spirit? The Virginia Capital Trail jersey is back for a limited time. Reserve your jersey by pre-ordering by August 21st.
Jerseys are expected to arrive September 30th. Please allow an additional 1-2 weeks for shipping.
|
|
New Cap Trail Coordinator |
|
|
|
We have expanded our Trail Ambassador program to include a new leadership position. We are very excited to introduce our five new Trail Coordinators:
- Ephraim Seidman
- Benjamin Ash
- Dan Schmitt
- Nadine Zimmerli
- Loretta Troen
Coordinators will lead community events, assist with advocacy and Trail activities, and help guide new Trail Ambassadors.
|
|
|
|
River City Roller Derby teamed up with the VCTF to host a Skate Clinic, led by league skaters Lyn and Angela - better known by their derby names AdrenaLyn and Patience Zero!
We had about 15 people show up for the clinic, from all ability levels and backgrounds - most folks had skated as a kid and wanted to rekindle the joy they felt on skates while also getting some fun outdoor exercise and building confidence to skate on the Trail. (Patience and adrenaline are important factors!) The group learned important skills such as how to stop, fall, go up and down hills, and how to confidently roll over obstacles (like rumble strips & bridges).
After an hour of practicing the basics like posture, stride, and how to bail into the grass, Lyn and Patience led a sunny group trail skate to put their new skills to the test. We hope to see you at our next RCRD x VCTF Skate Clinic on Oct. 15th!
- Author AdrenaLyn
|
|
|
|
We are excited to see improvements to the Canal Walk! The Urban Design Committee and Planning Commission recommended approval of these changes and the next step in the process will be City Council. The Canal Walk connects to the Capital Trail.
|
|
Programs
Conquer the Cap Trail this summer!
7/15 - Pop-Up Rest Stop, Charles City Courthouse, 10am - 1pm
Enjoy snacks, cold water, and fun giveaways!
*Summer Challenge medal pick-up for qualifying participants.
7/15 - Williamsburg Farmer's Market, 8am - Noon
Stop by our booth for Trail info and more.
7/19 - Cap Trail Champs Tie-Dye, Stone Brewing, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Bring a t-shirt for some tie-dye fun & 20% off drinks at Stone Brewing.
7/28 - Movie Night at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 8:30pm - 10:30pm
Bring your lawn chair and watch a movie under the stars.
Weekly Group Activities
Take a trek on the Capital Trail then enjoy 20% off drinks at Stone Brewing.
|
|
Thank You to Our Partners for Their Support |
|
Follow Us on Social Media! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
