Just off U.S. 35, lost in the serenity of farm country you will find a trail with a unique story of its own.

Local volunteers came together to make this vision a reality, using all local contractors and volunteers from the community.

"The local volunteers that stepped forward to help build this really put their heart and soul into this," John Bawcum, President of the Friends of the Panhandle Pathway said.

"None of us have done this before, so we brought the town together and started perusing the grant money to build a trail," Bawcum said.

"We got funding through three sources, federal and state, it was a series of three grants," as Bawcum explains.

Here's the unique back story of this trail. The trail was completely funded with grants through the State of Indiana, the federal government, and a grant from the stimulus package.

"With the funds we're going to cover 21 miles when it's done. It will be finished by November of this year," Bawcum said.

A portion of the Panhandle opened last summer, starting in Winamac and ending in Star City covering approximately 4.7 miles.

"That short distance has seen a lot of use over these past few months," Bawcum said.

For some people that don't live on a paved road, the Panhandle is a perfect place to ride, walk, and jog in the summer and cross country ski in the winter.

"We live on a gravel road and we don't get to ride the bike very much. She's pretty excited to have a trail to ride a bike on," as Samantha Bruce and daughter Lauren explain.

Not only is it a nice ride, there are many beautiful sights along the trail.

"It's a very attractive trail covering some very beautiful farm country in north central Indiana," Baucum said.

"It's a real hidden jewel for those who don't know much about us," Bawcum added.

Not only will you be treated to the beautiful farmland, you'll see picturesque rivers and streams as you ride down the trail.

"We're right here on the Tippecanoe River, it's a beautiful river. It's just beautiful country through here," Bawcum added.

It's not only for the avid bike rider or runner, but for those young and old.

"I rode it last fall almost every day weather permitting. This year, I've rode it maybe five times," Bob Reutebuch said.

The property that the trail was built on was rail bed which used to be the railroad that ran along U.S. 35. That means that the property was available for trail development. The group saw this as an opportunity to develop something for residents of the area now, as well as for future residents and their kids.

"We have built something and we are building this trail for all to use and enjoy. It's a magical thing about going on a trail for the first time," Bawcum said.

"It's a great experience," Bawcum added.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Friends of the Panhandle Pathway they meet the last Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Winamac Municipal Utilities building located at 623 W. 11th St in Winamac.

If you are looking for a map, location or for more information on the trail just click on the Big Red Bar.