A number of people participated in the grand opening, including Saul Raisin for whom the park is named. Saul is from Dalton and was a rising star in the professional bicycling circuits until an accident cut short his bicycling career. Saul became an inspiration to all bicyclists as well as to the entire city. Others at the grand opening included Mayor David Pennington and former Mayor Ray Elrod, who were instrumental in providing the property for the mountain bike park.

NWGASORBA also presented a $2,500 check to the Dalton-Whitfield Boys and Girls Club and provided free helmets to those that attended.

Raisin Wood Mountain Bike Park is a collaborative project of the NWGASORBA and the City of Dalton.  Approximately 5 miles are currently open for riding.  Located on rolling terrain, trails are available for both beginning riders as well as more experienced riders. Bring the whole family! Grant funds for the park were obtained by the City from the National Recreational Trails Program. The park is open every day; however, riders are asked to respectfully stay off the trails when it is wet.

In addition, Brookwood Elementary, Park Creek Elementary (also in Dalton) and Tunnel Hill Elementary School (Whitfield County) have recently submitted applications for grants available through Ga. DOT’s Safe Routes to School programs to build new sidewalk, crosswalks and other bike and pedestrian improvements in adjoining neighborhoods to their schools.