New trail on Lake Taneycomo opens Monday

BRANSON, Mo. (KY3) - A new eco-friendly trail opens Monday in Branson.

Eiserman Park trail covers 10,000 square feet. It encourages physical activity but is designed to keep tires out of the landfill.

Branson Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Shook says the top one-and-a-half inches of the trail is made up of 3,000 recycled tires. And the water below the surface of the trail flows into Lake Taneycomo. The trail sits next to a senior community center and a neighborhood without sidewalks.

“I think there was a more comprehensive approach to senior wellness, we had a lot of activities indoors but this is a great opportunity to come outdoors because it’s an ADA accessible trail,” said Shook.

The trail is part of the Taneycomo Watershed project. Grants from Missouri State University, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and White River Valley Electric funded it.

Branson visitor Gary Mays and his friend wanted to adventure off the strip today for some outdoor fun.

”We’re really excited about all of the parks, the flowing water and the pickle ball courts, we’re enjoying not being at a show so to speak and love being outside,” Gary Mays said.

Mays says he thinks the new trail is great for families who live in or visit Branson.

”Anybody who likes a nice solid walking path it’s great and I wish we had this in Heber Springs,” said Mays. “We’re getting there but a lot of them aren’t paved.”

He says having a variety of places to explore keeps him coming back to the tourist town.

”You can take in a show but then be outside the rest of the time we’re here,” said Mays.

The community can test out the trail today following the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2 p.m

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