The project began in March 2020 with Grapevine residents Ron Olsen and Chris Penny, who looked for a way to "inspire and uplift the community during the harsh reality of the COVID[-19] pandemic," according to a press release. Located between Wall-Farrar Nature Trail and the trail connection from Parr Park along Big Bear Creek, the trail now includes painted rocks from around the world.
Olsen placed the first clusters of rocks that started the collection, adorning them with a happy face, an Oklahoma University logo, bluebonnets and more. He described it as "a beautiful symbol of our community’s resilience and resolve in the face of such a devastating and disruptive pandemic," according to the release.
Penny joined when he and his daughters found the trail, adding their own painted rocks to it.
"What started as a random act of kindness to spread joy and positivity during the pandemic has grown into something extraordinary," Penny said. "It amazes me that people from all over the world have sent rocks to be placed on a trail that they might not ever visit."
A celebration will be held on Sept. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Rock Art Trail, which can be accessed by parking in the parking lot for Church at the Cross, located at 3000 William D. Tate Ave., Grapevine.
"Grapevine is a community of togetherness," said Kevin Mitchell, Grapevine Parks and Recreation director, in the release. "It is amazing what has been accomplished on the Rock Art Trail and the positive impact it has had on so many."
