The reclamation of Cascade Falls Park as an accessible Saco destination won’t be accomplished quickly, but with a master plan, volunteers and a budget of at least $50,000, its future is taking shape.

The master plan prepared for the Saco Trails Committee looks far ahead, setting forth ambitions that will take years to accomplish. The city’s goals include professionally constructed trails that will enable nature lovers in wheelchairs or otherwise handicapped to reach viewing points near the falls.

The City of Saco acquired the falls and 17 acres in an agreement during the planning of a commercial and residential project on 300 acres of adjoining land. Developer Elliot Chamberlain also cleared land for a gravel parking lot and provided $50,000 toward the construction of trails and other improvements.

In recent years, the area has been a popular party and hangout spot, but the beauty of the 60-foot falls once made it a popular park. Established around the time the former Cascade Inn was built  in 1928, the area included a stocked fishing pond and a zoo.

Nothing like that is planned this time, but pedestrian bridges will provide access to both sides of Cascade Brook  and history gets its due in the naming of the park’s trails, including Bear Cage Loop.

Saco Bay Trails is working with the city  to create a system of trails that makes the most of the site while protecting its natural features. The work will not only enhance a prime attraction, but will encourage the development of more footpaths and places of quiet refuge.

Past work on trail-building set the stage for this effort, and with the support of volunteers and donors, the network of trails will continue to grow.