Article by Amy Pendergast, Shasta County Department of Public Health

Shasta County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) worked with the McConnell Foundation and the Northstate Council on Physical Fitness and Sports in developing the first Walkabout for Wellness in 1998. This non-competitive event served as the grand opening festivities for the new Lema Ranch trails at the McConnell Foundation's headquarters in Redding, California. The goals of the event were to let the public know about this wonderful new trail system, to promote increased levels of physical activity, and to celebrate National Public Health Week. The event was a success with about 400 participants. Extensive media coverage focused on the importance of increased physical activity, encouraging people to walk the new Lema Ranch trails as a good way to become more active.

The following year, SCDPH coordinated a similar event with the City of Redding, Turtle Bay Museums and Arboretum by the River, and the Northstate Council on Physical Fitness and Sports to highlight a trail extension project underway. Both these events emphasized the importance of trails in our community and encouraged people to become more active by getting out and using trails. Activities were planned to encourage those who are not currently physically active to come out and try the trails.

SCDPH's popular AWalk Redding guide lists great places to walk in Redding, as well as walking tips and information on starting a walking program. Many people who used the guide reported that they learned about new trails, walked at a new location, walked more often, and shared the information with a friend or relative. Other activities of SCDPH's Physical Activity Promotion Program are based on the Spectrum of Prevention, which focuses on multiple htmlects for behavioral change, from individual knowledge and skills to policy and environmental changes that support active lifestyles.

Lema Ranch Trails: Site of the First Walkabout For Wellness

Lema Ranch was the site of the first Walkabout for Wellness and is also highlighted in the Walk Redding Guide. Lema Ranch, the headquarters for the McConnell Foundation, offers 5 miles of looping trails that are open to the public from sunrise to sunset each day. These quiet, serene paths offer access to ponds, birds and water fowl, a persimmon orchard, and views of mountain ranges. Trails are mostly unshaded and flat with gentle hills on some loops. The trail surface is chip seal for safety and comfort. This site is perfect for walkers as no pets, bicycles or skateboards are allowed. No drinking water or restrooms are available.

The Lema Ranch trail parking area is at 800 Shasta View Drive in Redding, California. From Highway 44, take the Shasta View Drive Exit and go north 1.8 miles.

For more information, contact Amy Pendergast at Shasta County Public Health Department: scphdch@snowcrest.net