JimHess
Silver Member
Dec 4, 2005, 1:33 AM
Post #2 of 7
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If I want to make a trail in the woods where none exists, I walk it on foot at first, with clippers and a folding pruning saw. Sometimes it helps to have a GPS and a topo map. I don't like to get the horse involved until I know it's passable. Once I get a route opened up we'll start riding through, clipping back a little more. Some of our trails are pretty narrow and twisting, which makes them challenging and fun. I almost always have the clippers and folding saw with me. I have them in holsters on a separate belt so they're handy even if I'm off the horse. Even on our regular trails there is always maintenance to be done, from new growth to blowdowns. We'll often come to a spot that needs work, tie the horses to a tree and clear out the obstacles. It's amazing what you can do with a good sharp pruning saw and a little patience. Unfortunately, it's usually not possible to get in with a chainsaw, so sometimes we have to get creative with a detour. The snowmobile clubs will clear a wide swath with equipment and often put culverts in for stream crossings. You can't always count on the snowmobile trails for riding, though, 'cause they may be too wet in the summer. There's getting to be more ATV use, and when we come upon an ATV trail it's a good bet we can get through, too. ATV's are a little controversial right now, 'cause irresponsible use angers landowners and they're banned from most private property. Does this answer your question at all, or were you thinking of something else altogether?
-Jim
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