Art on the MCT Trails

The “Trail Critters” Collection

Encounter eight colorful, large-scale "Trail Critter" sculptures along the MCT Trails, as part of the recently launched “Art on the Trails” initiative. Created by the talented artist Jeffie Brewer, these vibrant sculptures are crafted from durable 10-gauge steel, ensuring longevity, weather resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. The "Trail Critter" sculptures are a generous gift from ACT and are designed to enhance the visual appeal of the MCT Trails while fostering a sense of playfulness and creativity. The whimsical sculptures are strategically placed in highly visible locations, providing a delightful contrast to the natural greens and browns of the MCT Trails.

Learn about the different pieces in the “Trail Critters” collection below.

Cole

Located at Glen Carbon Junction, in Glen Carbon, along the MCT Ronald J. Foster Heritage Trail at Main Street, stands this lively 12-foot-tall hot pink canary. A nod to Glen Carbon’s origins as a coal mining locale, and the significant role canaries played in the practice of coal mining.

Jarvis

Located in Troy on the MCT Goshen Trail along Old Troy Road, near IL-162, is Jarvis the fiercely fun 10-foot-tall teal bear; named after the township in which he resides.

Marina

Located at Riverbend Junction, south of Alton, on the MCT Confluence Trail overlooking the Mississippi River, this magnificent yellow heron can be spotted from bikes, cars, and even boats with her impressive 12-foot-tall stature.

Mary

Located in, where else, Maryville. Along the MCT Schoolhouse Trail near Drost Park, nests this striking 9-foot-tall red cardinal.

Newt

Located at Edwardsville Junction in Edwardsville, where the MCT Nature, MCT Nickel Plate, and MCT Goshen trails intersect, is Newt. An orange kitty standing 9-feet-tall and reminding all frequent trailgoers of their favorite small trail kitty.

Radish

Located in Collinsville on the MCT Schoolhouse Trail along Horseshoe Lake Road, grazes this majestic 10-foot-tall purple horse. Named after Collinsville’s second favorite condiment (ketchup being the first).

Sandy

Located in Pontoon Beach off of the MCT Nature Trail sits this playful, lime green lizard. Sandy patrols the Sand Road/Chain of Rocks Road intersection and stretches out a whole 10-feet-long.

Steele

Located along the MCT Nature Trail in Granite City is Steele. A cheerful blue fox who sits at 10-feet-tall near Victory Drive and Terminal Avenue, and whose name is a nod to Granite City’s rich steel industry ties.