Equestrian Trail’s Missing Link to Be Dedicated

State and local officials today will dedicate a scenic trail in Chatsworth, reconstructed after years of disrepair. Restoration of the 1 1/2-mile Old Mission Trail means there will no longer be a missing link in the equestrian route between O’Melveny Park and the Santa Susana Mountains.

“This trail is something that’s good for everyone,” said John Diaz of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, the state agency that provided the $100,000 grant for the restoration. “It replaced overgrown weeds that were part of a freeway right of way. The area was an eyesore.”

The 11 a.m. dedication on Lurline Avenue marks the completion of trail improvements, including clearing the terrain and installing signs. Assemblywoman Marian W. La Follette (R-Northridge) and Los Angeles City Councilman Hal Bernson, who represent the area, are expected to attend.

The equestrian path, which is also used by joggers and hikers, has been open nearly three months. It is just south of the Simi Valley Freeway, stretching from DeSoto Avenue to Tampa Avenue.

Diaz termed the Old Mission Trail a “historic spot.” He said its existence has been traced to 1778, when it was used to connect a network of missions.

Authorities said they hope that Old Mission Trail will eventually become one of several public paths linking parks surrounding the entire San Fernando Valley. Diaz said his agency is completing other trail improvements begun about two years ago.

“One day,” said Laura Young, a spokeswoman for the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, “the idea is that you could ride a horse around the whole outer rim of the Valley without going on private property.”

But funds for such an extensive project have yet to be found, she said.