(October 20, 2022) Following years of anticipation, the City of Frisco is introducing residents to Grand Park by opening Big Bluestem Trail. An inaugural trail walk will be held November 19 at 9 a.m. The trailhead for Big Bluestem is located off Cotton Gin Road, between Dallas Parkway and Legacy Drive.
“We’re so excited to welcome the community to start exploring this trail,” said Mayor Jeff Cheney. “Our city has aspired to develop Grand Park for many years. In fact, the idea of Grand Park is one of the projects that inspired me to run for city council. I believe this trail marks the beginning of developing a legacy park destined to become one of our city’s greatest attractions for residents, visitors and future generations.”
Named for a prevalent native grass, the Big Bluestem is a natural, unpaved 12-foot-wide trail that winds its way through undeveloped park land for 2.2 miles. Bois d’arc trees, wildflowers and other grasses complement the landscape.
“Keep in mind, Grand Park is a multi-year development project,” said Shannon Coates, Director of Parks and Recreation. “In Phase 1, we’re keeping it simple by providing access to a beautiful walking trail and natural, open space.”
Work is underway to install a temporary road, as well as parking and lighting. ‘Big Bluestem’ is a single trail. While bikes will be allowed once the trail opens to the public, there is no alternate route for mountain bikes.
“For your safety, we’re asking everyone to please wait to explore the trail until our opening on November 19,” said Coates.
Follow this link to register for the 9 a.m. morning preview event, which is limited to the first 250 people to sign up. Receive a commemorative long-sleeved t-shirt as part of your $20 registration. No bikes or pets are allowed for the preview. Strollers are discouraged.
Following the morning event, the trail will open to the public at 11 a.m. Afterwards, trail operating hours will be sunrise to sunset.
Big Bluestem is the latest addition to Frisco Hike and Bike Trails presented by Children’s Health. For more information, go to PlayFrisco.org/Trails.
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