Patagonia Trail Plan
Three years ago two friends began talking about a trail between Patagonia and Sonoita following the abandoned railroad bed. Initially the idea was to only take the trail from Patagonia to Sonoita, but that concept has evolved into a regional trail concept. There are plans to have a main “spine” going from Patagonia to Sonoita with various loops off that central trail
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The trail’s list of benefits to the Patagonia-Sonoita area is long and exciting. The trail will benefit area residents as well as visitors to the area. It will contribute to the communities’ health and environment plus serve as an economic driver. The opportunities for scenic hiking, biking, birding and nature tourism are numerous. The rich history of the area the trail will pass through is a story worth telling. The role of the railroad and pioneer history in this area is significant. The trail will offer an educational as well as recreational experience.
Organizationally a steering committee has been formed, co-chairs and subcommittees have been established, and partnerships with local agencies and organizations have been made. The resulting organization has chosen its name, META…Mountain Empire Trail Association. Steering committee membership is made up of interested citizens and representatives from partnering agencies and organizations.
