Periwinkle
Active member
A few specific comments:
Overall, I think this is a tough call. When it comes to Owl's Head, we're talking about a viewless peak that generally is of interest only to peakbaggers. What would happen to that trail/glorified herd path if the USGS scaled it back to say, 3999'?
I look at this from two points of view: 1) I'm thankful for what trail there is to Owl's Head. (And was seriously amused by whomever had taken the time to spell out "OWL" in white stones at the trail junction last September.) 2) I've seen more than enough real "bootleg" trails to get a little annoyed. Those are two extremes for sure. Owl's Head is a "destination". Cutting your own bootleg trail just because you feel like it is another issue entirely. But, under the current regulations, they really are one in the same. The question really is, where do we draw the line?
- Signs: I think Pete's got the idea. Although I didn't specifically ask, I assume the sign in question will be posted at the trailheads. As one of those "What's Going on Here" deals.
- Cairns Above Treeline: These will not be removed as they are considered necessary for safety (as navigational aids).
- Cairn Removal on OHP: Just to clarify -- I believe these cairns are not being removed because of specific Wilderness regulations, but are considered violations of more general forest regulations.
- Links: Nice fiinds, Brownie. I originally tried to find the information I got online, but got impatient, bailed, and made a phone call. Definately links worth saving for future input!
Overall, I think this is a tough call. When it comes to Owl's Head, we're talking about a viewless peak that generally is of interest only to peakbaggers. What would happen to that trail/glorified herd path if the USGS scaled it back to say, 3999'?
I look at this from two points of view: 1) I'm thankful for what trail there is to Owl's Head. (And was seriously amused by whomever had taken the time to spell out "OWL" in white stones at the trail junction last September.) 2) I've seen more than enough real "bootleg" trails to get a little annoyed. Those are two extremes for sure. Owl's Head is a "destination". Cutting your own bootleg trail just because you feel like it is another issue entirely. But, under the current regulations, they really are one in the same. The question really is, where do we draw the line?