Life in Our Neck of the Woods: Phase 2 Begins at Ridgeview Trails
10/19/2026
Three additional miles, new signage and planned public access will expand MidAmerica’s trail system
Phase 2 of Ridgeview Trails at MidAmerica is underway, continuing the development of an outdoor recreation destination for MidAmerica employees, area residents and visitors.
The latest phase is supported by an additional $100,000 TSET Built Environment Grant from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). MidAmerica Industrial Park will provide a $37,500 match, bringing the total investment in Phase 2 to $137,500.
The project will add three miles of soft-surface trails for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Located off Highway 412B on the southeast side of the Park, the new trails will connect with the original three miles developed in 2025.
The expanded system will include entry-level and intermediate trails designed for users with different experience levels. Phase 2 will also include the installation of trail signage.
Plans for a parking lot and trailhead are currently in design. The improvements will provide a defined public access point for the trail system and make it easier for residents and visitors to use the growing network.
“This renewed investment from TSET allows us to continue building Ridgeview Trails into an outdoor recreation asset that will serve MidAmerica employees, area residents and visitors,” said David Stewart, chief administrative officer at MidAmerica Industrial Park. “The expansion supports our broader commitment to quality of life while creating more opportunities for people to be active and enjoy the natural features of the Ridgeview property.”
“Expanding places for people to engage in physical activity creates better health and greater community connection,” said TSET Interim Executive Director Lance Thomas. “With this TSET Built Environment Grant, the MidAmerica Industrial Park will expand its already impressive Ridgeview Trails to benefit the health of not only those who work there, but also the broader community. We constantly seek partners who promote and prioritize wellness.” The project is one of many TSET-funded efforts across Oklahoma supporting infrastructure and community improvements that make physical activity more accessible.
“Ridgeview Trails is creating an exciting new recreational resource for Mayes County,” said Arianna Derr, board chair of the Mayes County Trails Alliance. “Connecting the original trail with three additional miles will give residents and visitors more opportunities to hike, run and ride while continuing to strengthen the region’s growing trail network.”
Phase 2 is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
A Family Affair
Building Ridgeview Trails has become a family effort for Rory Peterson, owner of Blazin Trails LLC.
During construction of the original three miles in 2025, Peterson worked alongside his 87-year-old father and his 30-year-old son, Kyle, who had returned home after working at Rocky Mountain National Park. Peterson and Kyle shaped the trail using hand tools, while his father cleared branches and exposed roots.
For Phase 2, Peterson’s crew includes his 28-year-old daughter, Brooklyn, and his father, now 88. Ringo, Peterson’s Australian Shepherd, also accompanies the family on the trail.
“It’s always a good day when you are working with family and supporting each other,” Peterson said. “I don’t take for granted the time I have with my kids and my dad out in the forest.”
Peterson’s father embodies a saying Rory frequently repeats: “If you quit moving, they throw dirt on you.” At 88, he continues working in the forest with his son and granddaughter.
For Peterson, the reward is seeing a trail emerge from the landscape and knowing it will support healthier lives.
“It’s really satisfying to build something you know will bring joy and health to other people’s lives,” he said.