"This trail will be a great draw for tourists traveling in this region," Oliver said. "With its paved surface and spectacular views around the lake, the pathway is designed for users of all ages and all abilities."

H.E. Stuber Inc. of Rochester, Beaver County, began work this month on the paved loop trail, which encircles the park portion of the 1,860-acre Lake Wilhelm. Work includes construction of an eight-foot-wide asphalt path, and replacement and re-decking of several bridges.

A hiking trail link off the southern tip of the trail connects to the nearby McKeever Education Center near Sandy Lake.

The $2.9 million "Growing Greener" project is expected to be completed late this year.

Since 1995, more than $250 million has been invested in improving facilities at Pennsylvania's state parks and forests. Projects have included roads, sewer and water systems, marinas, campgrounds, trails and other facilities. "Growing Greener," the state's largest-ever environmental initiative, is providing $125 million for those park and form improvements.

In his budget proposal, Gov. Mark Schweiker wants to freeze Growing Greener funding for a year to make up for budget shortfalls.

Lake Wilhelm, the focal point of the 2,800-acre M.K. Goddard State Park, offers year-round boating and fishing. More than 276,000 people used the park last year.

The park is named for the late Maurice K Goddard, a nationally renowned cabinet secretary who served under more governors than any other person in the history of the Commonwealth. It was under the leadership of Goddard as secretary of the departments of Forests and Waters and Resources that a state park was established within 23 miles of nearly every Pennsylvania.

Sandy Creek, which traverses M.K. Goddard State Park, was first noted in reports made by George Washington during his trip to Fort LeBoeuf in 1753.