It took nearly 5 years and $670,000 in grants and donations since the original trail concept was presented, but
Phase 1 of the Gold Star Memorial Trail is now open for hiking and biking from Mayville’s Theiler Park to the
Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center!
Despite cold weather forcing some delays in the final trail work, the finishing touches were completed and the
barricades were removed around Thanksgiving, signaling the opening of the trail. “We are so very thankful to
all those that contributed their time, resources and support to this unique community project – a project that
provides a significant recreation, transportation and health resource while helping us remember and appreciate
those that gave the ultimate sacrifice serving our country and the families they left behind”, stated Dodge
County Land Resources and Parks Director and Gold Star Memorial Trail project manager, Bill Ehlenbeck.
The asphalt paved trail, mostly located within the right of way of Highway 28 is about 2.1 miles long and
available for non-motorized uses – hiking, biking, cross country skiing and snow shoeing. The trail will not be
plowed in winter. Mayville’s Theiler Park will serve as the main trailhead where a kiosk with memorial, donor
and trail information is planned along with installation of trail and trailhead identification signs in spring prior to
the Grand Opening.
The Grand Opening for the Phase 1 Gold Star Memorial Trail is planned for National Trails Day, Saturday, June
1, 2019. This event will provide a recognition of major donors and our Gold Star families among other
activities.
The ultimate concept of the Gold Star Memorial Trail is to connect the City of Mayville to the City of Beaver
Dam through additional phases of the project. Currently, the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center trails
do not permit bike riding. However, walking your bike on the southern Bachhuber Trail through the Horicon
Marsh will get you to Palmatory Point which then connects to the City of Horicon Gold Star Memorial Trail
bike route. The Horicon bike route leads to the west end of the City near Whitty Park which will serve as the
connecting point for the next phase of the project from the City of Horicon to the City of Beaver Dam. The
Horicon to Beaver Dam phase of the project is currently in the planning stages.
Donations for the Theiler Park kiosk, future trail phases and other trail enhancements can be made to Friends of
Dodge County Parks, c/o Gold Star Memorial Trail, P.O. Box 72, Juneau, WI 53039. A Memorial Bench
program will also be available soon. For more Gold Star Memorial Trail information, updates and links, visit
www.dodgeparks.com.
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