I can confirm Kirk's report on Dry Ridge, beautiful shape, recent maintenance (last year?) - there were a couple of small stems I removed but left one large log near the Grouse Pt intersection - otherwise the trail is clear. I did 7-8 on Grouse Pt down to the Roaring River, there are maybe 7-10 that are too big for me and all but one are minor inconveniences. From years back there is the one log laying on the trail that can pose navigational issues for those unfamiliar with the trail - there is flagging. The treatment Rob, Kirk, Brian, & I did last year on that switchback seems to be working.
The problem with the upper section of the 517 north of Dry Ridge is not blowdown or brush but the creeping moss and oxalis that makes the tread look like the rest of the forest floor. I don't know what to do about it that doesn't involve a lot of hard work with a Pulaski.
North out of the Roaring River the trail is in good shape maybe one large log.
The Sounds Trail is good for the most part, did a couple smaller trees on the way down. The tread is getting faint south of that grove of mature Doug Fir and I stepped off the trail at one point. There are a couple of nasty spots where downed snags cause navigational issues. There is some pretty fresh pink flagging that was useful in a couple of spots. I may return to this to cut out a couple of small stems low down and do some tread work when the snow falls and I'm looking to hike lower elevation trails.
--Paul
Nice job, Paul. Though, you make that loop sound like a stroll in the park
Thank you Paul for each and every cut. They all add up.
As for the 517 from the river to Dry Ridge, the use is so light the ground cover advances but I think it is only increased use that would knock it down. And that is unlikely because for many the grade and the crossing (early season) are tough. I think the best we can do is keep the corridor open.
D 2