July 11 BRP MP 279

Four volunteers: Chris, Barry, Ted, and Shelton begun working on a new section along the Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 279. This section is mostly a pine forest with lots of rhododendron.
In the photo above you can see the difficulty we encounter trying to cut our trail through the rhodies. Here Chris cuts out a root ball so Ted and Barry can work the grade.

Shelton strikes a blow with the axe at a stubborn root to be removed from the foot tread.

In the heat of the day working requires frequent water breaks, times to chat, to catch up on the week, and plan the work ahead.

Moments of quiet to calm the spirit,

focus the mind, and rest for the attack again.

Work is done for now and Chris is shown hauling out the tools of the day. Above is the first of 5 switch backs in this section of trail. Our work on this switchback alone was a major accomplishment. Dirt was cut from above the trail and brought down below to set the grade and reduce the incline. Walking out on a newly created section of a trail is a reward unto itself.

But oh what a sweet experience it is to walk out on trail knowing it was not there before your efforts, but will be there,~~~~
forever more!

Thanks always to our volunteers who make the effort to make the way for the hikers of tomorrow.