Trail Work

I met up with a group of guys for some Laurel Mountain Trailwork.  Our goal was to cut all trees off the trail and trim back the growth overhanging the trail.  And if there was time and opportunity,  clear some drains. We worked hard and ended up walking 8 miles,  with tools.  The weather started with little sprinkles but the rain held off,  even a little sunshine showing through.  Of course the humidity was high,  jungle like! 

Sitting here typing this, my calves feel like rocks,  not in a good way,  tight and hard to walk.  Part of the reason is simply not used to hiking,   but mostly because my $60 work boots aren't cut out for that type of activity.  I'll have to figure out what to do about that. 

photo cred: Greg Leister

photo cred: Greg Leister

photo cred: Greg Leister

 Chuck Ramsey's synopsis: (and pics)

Three of us were shuttled to the Mt Pisgah end of the trail (actually to Buck Springs Trail, which connects with Laurel) and worked our way downhill with a chainsaw, loppers, etc. A second group (five PAS volunteers) worked their way up from Forest Service Rd 1206. The two groups met in Good Enough Gap, having removed brush, deadfalls, and trail-side debris from the entire length of trail. We walked out to 1206; everyone had around 8 hours work and 8 miles distance to his credit. Here's a set of before and after shots; this tree was in the 30" diameter range. We were able to leave the tree in play, yet provide an easy ride-around. With Justin PM, Chris Strout, David Knupp, Stephen Janes, Greg Leister, Mark whose last name I missed, and Ryan Donovan

photo cred: Greg Leister

As Chuck said, we were out for about 8 hours,  it feels good to get out and care for something that so many people use.  Feels really good.