September 28th, 2013 – Mt. Kinsman

A group of 4 Trailwrights spent a combined 40 hours continuing the work started on September 14th, a long day for certain. This area is at the third water crossing just below the Bald Peak junction, 2 miles from the parking lot. We quarried rocks from the vicinity, some of which were installed as rock steps and others used to reinforce the up-stream side of the lower rock steps or placed as scree. The left side of the trail facing up hill was brushed in. We installed 5 rock steps, adding to the 3 placed on the 14th. Unlike on the 14th, the water levels in the streams were at seasonal lows. The cool temps were great for moving rock and no bugs. A big thanks to all those who assisted in the needed improvements made to a badly eroded section of my adopted trail.

As a side note, on the 14th the majority of hikers passing by were headed for the Kinsmans, those representing the FOT48 for S. Kinsman, an AMC over 55 group for N. Kinsman and several independent groups. On the 28th, the majority headed to Bald Peak. – Bruce

Please visit our Facebook page to view photos from this work day.

Using bars to guide the rock and protect the cable.
Rock steps set. Time to pack up and head back.

September 14th, 2013 – Mt. Kinsman

A group of 8 Trailwrights spent a combined 76 hours installing rock steps and a rock water bar immediately above the third water crossing located two miles from the parking lot and just below the junction with Bald Peak spur. Additional rocks were placed as step stones at that area. Other rocks were quarried to be set as rock steps at a later date.

All in all, a great deal was accomplished despite high water levels that impeded the work progress. It was a day with cool weather that is great for moving rock, no rain to speak of and no bugs. Another work day will be needed to complete installation of rock steps in this area. – Bruce

Quarrying 2nd rock, bar against 1st in foreground.
Second rock near final location.
Rolling a rock with bars.
New Kinsman Trail road sign.