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Draper Journal

Ralph’s Trail Named After Prominent Draper Resident

May 05, 2016 01:11PM ● By Kelly Cannon

By Kelly Cannon | [email protected]

Draper - The Draper City Council unanimously approved naming a new hiking trail after Draper resident Ralph Wadsworth during its March 15 meeting. Ralph’s Trail, which was recently constructed, starts at the Aqueduct Road and ends at the Bonneville Shoreline Trail at the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge. 

“This item is a simple resolution but it’s big in stature,” said Rhett Ogden, the recreation director at the city. “Ralph Wadsworth has been a great servant to the city of Draper. He’s been instrumental in building many trails and instrumental in providing financial support.” 

Ogden said Ralph was the biggest supporter and cheerleader in the construction of the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge and he is well deserving of this honor.

“It would be a lasting legacy to Ralph Wadsworth and all he’s done for the city,” Ogden said. “We couldn’t honor him better than having his name on the trail.”

Ralph was unable to attend the meeting due to being out of town, but was represented by his son, Todd. 

“We’ve lived in Draper for 50 years. It’s home and it’s important to us,” Todd said. “My dad moved us kids to Draper for a simple reason: to live in a great place, be raised on a farm and teach us work ethic. I think he succeeded in that.” 

Todd expressed his appreciation to the council for recognizing his father.

“I called Dad the other night and surprised him with this. He was elated so I appreciate you guys doing this for him,” Todd said. “To recognize that trail that is specifically above his house is going to be a real honor for his remaining days.”

Councilmember William Rappleye commended the recreation department for honoring Ralph by naming a trail after him. 

“This is a small thing to do for the Wadsworth family. We’ve been fortunate to do things with the family,” Rappleye said. “It’s amazing to see people in this day and age doing things that are unselfish. I’m glad we can do this.”