JCarter
Member
Date of Hike: 5/24/2014
Trail Conditions: First trip of the spring, with a group of 3. Hiked the entire trail (2.9 miles) to the junction with the Kinsman Ridge/AT. All water crossings were easily rock-hoppable. Lower third of the trail is mainly dry, middle third has some wet areas, and upper third has significant mud, puddles, and standing and running water.
Cleared multiple (6? 7?) blowdowns and several lean-overs. All blowdowns are now gone. Several were blocking the trail. Brushed out the upper half-mile of the trail.
Cleared and reshaped waterbars in the upper portion of the trail. Dug new drainages for a couple of flat areas that have standing water issues. Additional stepstones and more drainage work will be needed on future trips. Blazing is adequate for most of the trail, as the treadway is very well-defined. There are 2 junctions with old roads that could use improved marking.
Entrance to parking area at the trailhead is still a challenge for low-clearance vehicles. Alternate parking area .2 mi down Reel Brook Rd is fine, but small.
Trail Conditions: First trip of the spring, with a group of 3. Hiked the entire trail (2.9 miles) to the junction with the Kinsman Ridge/AT. All water crossings were easily rock-hoppable. Lower third of the trail is mainly dry, middle third has some wet areas, and upper third has significant mud, puddles, and standing and running water.
Cleared multiple (6? 7?) blowdowns and several lean-overs. All blowdowns are now gone. Several were blocking the trail. Brushed out the upper half-mile of the trail.
Cleared and reshaped waterbars in the upper portion of the trail. Dug new drainages for a couple of flat areas that have standing water issues. Additional stepstones and more drainage work will be needed on future trips. Blazing is adequate for most of the trail, as the treadway is very well-defined. There are 2 junctions with old roads that could use improved marking.
Entrance to parking area at the trailhead is still a challenge for low-clearance vehicles. Alternate parking area .2 mi down Reel Brook Rd is fine, but small.
