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Each year we slow down and reflect on the past trail season and share what we are most grateful for as we move into a new year.
"As SHTA nears our 37th year, I am incredibly grateful for all those who have served as stewards of the Superior Hiking Trail over the decades. From the early visionaries who saw the need for the Trail and had the ambition to act on it, to those stewards who have committed to a particular section of Trail to care for year after year. Thousands of people have shown up for the SHT -- advocates, volunteers, donors, landowners, passionate local residents and trail enthusiasts from around the country. Through this collective care we have been able to create, and now manage, maintain and protect the premier footpath in the Midwest. Thank you trail stewards of past, present and future!"
Lisa Luokkala, Executive Director
"In 2022 we saw the number and size of our volunteer projects return to pre-2020 levels, which is good news for many reasons! I am thankful for our increase in staff positions, which has allowed us to serve the Trail and its users better. As always, I’m grateful for our volunteers, partners, and landowners that make this Trail possible!"
Tamer Ibrahim, Trail Operations Director
"I am grateful for each volunteer that spent time and energy helping to maintain the SHT. Sawyers and their helpers who cleared downed trees. Adopters who spent days lopping brush, cleaning fire pits, and sending in reports. Project volunteers who dug in new tread, got water off the trail, and built bridges. Store and tabling volunteers who shared their knowledge of the trail with others. Photographers, designers, tool sharpeners, blazers, and so many more. You are the heart and soul of the SHT. The Trail wouldn't be here without you. Thank you!"
Barbara Budd, Volunteer and Education Coordinator
"I live in Duluth and most of my walks are along the Superior Hiking Trail within city limits. I am so very grateful to Larry Sampson and the many volunteers who have hauled in materials and built many, many feet of boardwalk along the Trail as well as several re-routes. These upgrades and improvements have been a delight to discover and have improved the experience of being on the SHT! Thank you!"
Jody Nonnemacher, Trail Store manager
This year I'm thankful for my awesome co-workers! Everyone has their areas of expertise and the gifts they bring to their work. We are so lucky to have them. Their professionalism, love of the trail, and quirky personalities make them the best! The SHTA has been blessed with great staff over the years, and my current colleagues continue in that tradition!
Lisa Knight, Administrator
"I am incredibly grateful for all of our amazing volunteers. So many of them have such an inspiring connection and rich history with the Trail. I am also grateful for the private landowners and public land managers who make the Trail possible with their ongoing support and collaboration. Thank you all for your support and contributions to the SHTA, we’ll see you on the Trail!"
Mackenzie Hogfeldt, Trail Stewardship Director
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