Three-year-old Jamison Parker hops down the bunny trail as his parents follow his lead at Sam Michael’s Park on Saturday. Toni Milbourne

HARPERS FERRY – Youngsters lined up early Saturday morning to take part in Hoppin’ Down the Bunny Trail event at Sam Michael’s Park. The trail was lined with activities to get kids moving and exercising, as well as providing craft elements and trinkets to take home.

The various stops along the paved walking trail through the park had children hopping on eggs, coloring with sidewalk chalk, catching bubbles, running through hula hoops and creating an art project or two.

“It was really fun,” said four-year-old Harper Vocature, as she walked across a balance beam.

“She likes this,” said her mom, Laura Vocature about the play area. “She took gymnastics this year, so this is easy for her.”

Three-year-old Jamison Parker enjoyed the event, as he excitedly ran from one station to the next.

The healthy focus continued in the Jefferson County Community Center, as attendees made their way inside to enjoy some time in the moon bounce, listen to music and partake of some tasty, and healthy, treats.

Jefferson County Parks and Recreation, who planned the event, made a move last year toward a more healthy activity than the previous years’ breakfast with the Easter Bunny and egg hunt.

“We are all about recreation and activity,” said Director Jennifer Myers. “We made the change last year, and it fits much more in line with what we promote on a regular basis.”

While some attendees were looking for the traditional egg hunt, most found the event rewarding and fun, especially the more than 160 children who participated.

Each was met at the end of the bunny trail by the Easter Bunny and park mascot “Chippy” to receive a medal for completing the half-mile course.

The Rainbow Rock Band provided entertainment, as children danced on mats and jumped in the bouncy house.

Several businesses partnered together for the event, offering prizes that were given out as part of the festivities, including Chick-Fil-A in Ranson, McDonald’s in Charles Town and WVU-Medicine and Valley Health.

“The generosity of these partners is something that allows us to provide such a successful and fun event,” Myers said. “We are so grateful to each of them.”