2017 is coming to a close and we are looking back on what it brought for the Johnny Cash Trail in Folsom.
A Year End Review of the Johnny Cash Trail
Years of trail planning and construction wrapped up in 2017 with the completion of Phase II of construction in October. Here’s what’s new on the trail now that construction is complete:
Connecting Trails
The second phase of construction, connected the trail to existing Class I and II bike trails along Folsom’s 95-mile scenic trail network.
The Johnny Cash Trail now makes a complete, uninterrupted loop - connecting to the American River bike trail and Lake Natoma trail, as well as providing access to Folsom’s Historic District.
Undercrossing Tunnel
The expanded Johnny Cash Trail now provides pedestrians and cyclists safe passage through a 60-foot long undercrossing that runs below Folsom Prison Road, allowing trail-goers to avoid vehicle traffic at E. Natoma Street and Folsom Prison Road.
Bridging the Ravine
Robbers’ Ravine, nestled behind Folsom’s City Hall Complex, is deep ravine that was previously an impediment to trail users who wanted to connect to the American River bike trail. Now, trail-goers can easily cross 50 feet above the ravine on the 190-foot long wooden Robbers’ Ravine Bridge, and enjoy the scenic view as they bike, walk, or jog the trail.
Completion of the trail was celebrated in style, of course.
The Johnny Cash Trail Grand Opening
The City of Folsom hosted a Grand Opening Ceremony to commemorate the completion of the trail featuring a dedication ceremony, community festival, fun run, live music, and an appearance by Johnny Cash’s daughter, Cindy Cash.
Fun Run
On October 14, 2017, the Folsom community capped off all of this progress with a huge celebration! It was a beautiful day for a run, walk, or bike ride, bringing out droves of trail supporters and fitness lovers alike to enjoy the grand opening of the newly completed trail for a very successful fun run event.
Dinner Under the Stars
The evening was host to a starlit fundraising dinner atop the newly installed Robbers Ravine bridge, in a setting that coupled elegance with rustic charm. Guests were served gourmet eats from Karen’s Bakery, their ticket costs helping to fund artwork that will soon grace the trail.
The Johnny Cash Trail grand opening festivities were a huge success.
QUIZ: Which Johnny Cash Tune is Your Theme Song?
Take this quiz to find out which Johnny Cash tune is your theme song.
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What’s Next for the Johnny Cash Trail
2018 is going to be great for Johnny Cash fans and supporters of the Johnny Cash Trail project. Here’s what you can look forward to:
On January 13, 2018, Cash fans celebrate the 50th anniversary of Johnny’s legendary Folsom Prison performances.
Get ready for the art! Fundraising is currently underway to bring the first piece of art to the Johnny Cash Trail, and we’re excited to finally bring you these world-class art installations to enjoy in 2018.
It is the support of the community and fans like yourself that has made the Johnny Cash Trail possible. Thank you for your continued support of our project.
Become Part of the Legacy
If you want to help support the continued advancement of the trail, you can make a donation to help fund the artwork honoring the Man in Black.
Add Your Name to the Donor Wall
Limited spots are still available on the donor wall for you to put up your name as a supporter of the trail.
Your family or business name, featured on the wall, will be a permanent part of the Johnny Cash Trail art experience. Future generations will see the wall, recognizing and appreciating your contribution to the trail.
Get Your Collectible
Donate to the trail artwork by purchasing a limited-edition collectible created exclusively for Johnny Cash Trail fundraising.
Only 100 limited-edition JCASH50 collectibles were made, featuring a real CA license plate made by Folsom Prison inmates.
The donor wall and JCASH50 collectible will go a long way towards bringing the art to the trail, but they’re not the only way you can support Folsom’s amazing project.
Excited About the Trail?
Cash donations of any amount add up to art installations.
You can be part of the legacy by making a donation to help fund the 8 larger than life sculptures that will be erected along the trail.
Witnessing and taking part in all that came together for the Johnny Cash Trail in 2017 was exciting, to say the least. With those memories to keep tucked away forever, now is the time to look forward and continue planning for another year of advancement.
With many art installations in the works to honor the Man in Black and his historic performance in Folsom Prison 50 years ago, we still have a lot of work ahead of us. And we couldn’t be happier about it.
Cheers to another year of forward movement for the Johnny Cash Trail in 2018!
