BETA celebrates completion of Jackrabbit Ski Trail trailhead

KEENE | The Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA) marked the completion of a permanently protected public trailhead at the eastern end of the 40-mile Jackrabbit Ski Trail Feb. 22, celebrating a project that secures long-term public access to one of the Adirondacks' most iconic ski routes. Located off Alstead Hill Road in Keene, the new trailhead includes a dedicated public parking area, three bridges totaling more than 100 feet of span, and a rerouted trail section within the Sentinel Range Wilderness. The trailhead and access corridor opened to the public in December 2025 following five years of planning, permitting, engineering, and construction. For many years, skiers and hikers reached this section of the Jackrabbit Trail by parking on private property at Rock and River Guide Service. While generously permitted by landowners, the arrangement was not sustainable as public use increased. In January 2020, the Sentinel Range Wilderness Unit Management Plan was amended to authorize a permanent reroute and formal trailhead. The completed project establishes a durable access point that resolves longstanding challenges while protecting private land and sensitive natural resources. The effort was fully funded by Bob Harris, a lifelong outdoorsman whose generosity made the project possible. Harris passed away in September 2025 before seeing the trailhead completed. Members of the Harris family attended Sunday's ribbon-cutting to honor his legacy and commitment to public access. "Our father believed deeply in public access and in caring for the places that bring people together," said Kyle Harris. "He saw the Jackrabbit Trail as something that connects communities and generations. We're grateful that this trailhead will help ensure that connection continues well into the future." Assemblyman Michael Cashman, Keene Town Supervisor Joe Pete Wilson, and North Elba Town Supervisor Rick Preston joined members of the Harris family, partner agencies, and the Jackrabbit community at the celebration. Wilson emphasized the local significance of resolving long-standing access concerns. "This project reflects Keene's commitment to responsible recreation and to maintaining strong relationships with private landowners," said Wilson. "Creating a permanent, clearly defined access point benefits residents and visitors alike while protecting the character of our community." Regional leaders noted the broader importance of sustained investment in recreation infrastructure across the Adirondacks. "The Jackrabbit Trail is a regional asset that connects communities across the Adirondacks," said Assemblyman Michael Cashman. "Sustained state partnership in recreation infrastructure helps ensure these public lands remain accessible, responsibly managed, and economically important for generations to come." Created in 1986 by the Adirondack Ski Touring Council and expanded over time, the Jackrabbit Ski Trail links the communities of Keene, Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Paul Smiths across public and private lands. Named for ski pioneer Herman "Jackrabbit" Johannsen, the trail remains one of the region's most beloved winter routes. Today, BETA stewards the 40-mile corridor as part of its broader network of more than 125 miles of trails across the Adirondacks.

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BETA celebrates completion of Jackrabbit Ski Trail trailhead

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