It Starts With A Bold Vision

CELEBRATING JOE STUDENICKA AND THE LATE WAYNE PAULEY

Save Burney Falls founders Studenicka and the late Wayne Pauley submitted a request to develop the Burney to McCloud corridor as a multi-use trail, stopping the railroad company’s abandonment request. The two leaders initiated purchase negotiations with the railroad. They developed the concept, engaged others in their vision, and began taking the many steps toward making the vision a reality. 

Their passion for this concept caught on quickly. Broad community support was clear from the beginning as 35 groups participated in the initial planning sessions, nearly double the required number for that stage of the process. 

We celebrate the original vision of Joe Studenicka and Wayne Pauley and the exciting acquisition of the Great Shasta Rail Trail. The vision continues to grow and evolve as The Great Shasta Rail Trail Association and its supporters will now begin the work to renovate bridges and trestles, replace culverts, upgrade the trail surface, post signs, build restrooms, and new trail heads. New connections will be made into the communities of McCloud and Burney, local businesses will enjoy increased tourism, and individuals and families will enjoy boundless recreational opportunities for hiking, cycling, and skiing with access to creeks and waterfalls and North State beauty. Shasta Land Trust conserves significant lands in far Northern California for future generations to enjoy – and this project lives up to that goal.