Pine Mountain Mayor Encourages More to Join “Walk”

Mayor Mary Ruth Mullins is inviting more residents to lace up their walking shoes and join her each Monday morning for the Town of Pine Mountain’s weekly “Walk with the Mayor” initiative along the Man O’ War Trail.

Since the program launched in June, Mayor Mullins said she has enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with participants while promoting healthy lifestyles and community connection.

“I’ve really enjoyed everyone who has come out to walk with us on Monday mornings,” Mullins said. “It’s been a wonderful opportunity to visit with neighbors, enjoy the fresh air and spend time on one of Pine Mountain’s greatest assets.”

The weekly walks begin at 8 a.m. each Monday at the Pine Mountain Tourism Association Visitor Center, 101 Broad St., before participants head out on the scenic Man O’ War Trail, a popular rails-to-trails pathway.

Mayor Mullins encourages participants to walk at their own pace and for whatever distance is comfortable, reminding walkers to pay attention to the trail’s mile markers since the distance traveled out must also be walked back. Depending on her schedule, the mayor typically walks with the group for approximately 20 to 25 minutes before returning to Town Hall.

“I hope even more residents will come out and enjoy the trail with us,” Mullins said. “Whether you want to exercise, enjoy the outdoors, meet new people or simply visit while we walk, everyone is welcome. The important thing is getting outside and getting moving.”

In addition to promoting physical activity, fresh air and use of the Man O’ War Trail, the weekly walks provide an informal opportunity for residents to visit with the mayor, ask questions and share ideas in a relaxed, respectful setting.

The weekly walks take place along the 13.5-mile Man O’ War Trail, a Harris County-developed rails-to-trails project that begins in downtown Pine Mountain and follows the historic Man O’ War Railroad corridor. Today, the trail is one of the community’s premier recreational amenities for walkers, runners and cyclists, with future phases planned to extend it beyond its current 13.5-mile length to more than 21 miles.

The group assembles at the Pine Mountain Tourism Association Visitor Center each Monday, allowing participants to meet with the mayor even if weather or scheduling occasionally prevents the walk from taking place.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

Walk with the Mayor is free, open to all ages and fitness levels, and no registration is required.

For more information, contact the Pine Mountain Tourism Association or visit the Visitor Center.