Decorah Rotary Club and Volunteer Drivers Host over 100 Riders on Annual Trout Run Trail Tour Day

Be the reason your community stays informed—give to local journalism now! DECORAH — On Tuesday, Aug. 26, the Decorah Rotary Club hosted the annual Trout Run Trail Tour, giving older adults and others with physical barriers to accessing the trail an opportunity to ride in a side-by-side machine and experience the beauty of the entire loop on a motorized tour. More than 100 riders participated, some attending on their own and others coming in groups from local long-term care facilities and hospice programs. Nine volunteer drivers narrated the turns of the trail, sharing how it came to be and pointing out some of its best views and features. The event combines the tour with community building, as participants share breakfast or lunch before or after the ride. Whether catching up with familiar faces or making new friends, participants talked about the great time they had. "I've walked a few blocks of the trail, but with my lungs I can't go any farther. Until today I never thought I would see the whole thing," exclaimed one excited rider. "The Decorah Rotary Club Trout Run Trail Tour is important for the community because it brings a lot of joy to citizens who would not normally be able to enjoy the trail," said Bill Courtney, one of the organizers. Many of the riders have participated year after year. Decorah Rotary Club volunteers help organize the event and prepare and serve the food, but many people came together to make the event possible. The club thanked the volunteer drivers, who donated both their time and the use of their personal or company side-by-sides. This year's drivers and vehicle donors were Paul Nichols, John Kerndt, Tade Kerndt, Tom Kuennen, Les Askelson, Mike Huinker, Greg Rude, Dacia Monson, the Dykstra family, Larry Hauber and Decorah Kawasaki. Many of the drivers have returned for years and have perfected their narration. The club also thanked Decorah Parks and Recreation for its support and posting of signs, the Decorah Fish Hatchery for its support and use of the facility, and all of the individuals and groups who came out for the ride. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.