Did you know that Cornerstone has it’s own “Holey Land” trails for walking or mountain biking? Just park in the gravel parking lot, face the woods (where Rusty parks on Sunday mornings) and look for the trailheads to the left and the right. The “trails” are actually one loop that meanders down one side of the church’s beautiful, wooded property, crosses the creek twice and meanders back up the other side to bring you out right back into the parking lot. The terrain is fairly steep and pretty rough. The trail was designed primarily for walking and mountain biking…but be careful…it is NOT an easy trail, and it is full of holes (hence the name “Holey Land”) left by downed trees whose roots have rotted away. The creek is beautiful and moves fast enough to create a relaxing babble…there are several nice spots to sit or even throw up a portable hammock in the cool shade.

As you make your way down the trail, you will see big red and white oak trees, sour wood, yellow poplar, pine, sweetgum, winged elm and hickory trees. Ferns line the trail in many sections and patches of pipsissewa can be found in some of the shadier spots. The trail is rocky in parts, and the creek has sections where the water runs over large solid rock slabs.

Once you cross the creek, get ready for some short but steep climbs mixed in with some quick turns and seriously undulating terrain. This section is a challenge whether you are on a bike or on foot. Unfortunately, the natural lay of the land made it very difficult to create an “easy” walking trail. The hills and natural drainage cuts make for some difficult and slightly strenuous walking but add some real fun for mountain bikers.

A couple of warnings if you decide to ride your mountain bike on the “Holey Land” trail:

Always wear a helmet when you ride!
Look out for walkers and runners.
If you are a beginner…go practice somewhere else…this is a hard trail!
Please don’t ride your bike too soon after a rain.
After walking or riding…check yourself for ticks.

A trailhead kiosk is coming soon and will be placed at the trailhead on the left side. This trail was built and is maintained by members of the Auburn Off Road Mountain Bike Association and members of Cornerstone. So, come enjoy God’s creation in our own backyard.