Slope, cross slope, outslope
Corridor, tread, and consistency
Switchbacks
more switchbacks
Back cuts for bench cuts: full and half
Contours and compaction
Drainage without erosion
Grade
and always
Sustainability
The knowledge, language, and skill
of the trail builders
With all I know, though
of all they share
I’m still left wondering how
They brought the Sun
Ascending in the east
Descending in the west
Setting aflame the awe within me
From where did they obtain
The morning dew
that dampens my cuffs
as I walk along
How did they arrange for
The song of the Wood Thrush and
The Wren
Of the Cardinal and the Dove
By whose hand was the Heron
Placed in a posture of
Waiting and watching
Statue-still in the trail-side pond
Finally, with what magic did they create
The Silence
and the Peace
that descends upon my heart
As I move
Step by step
Along the path
They created
I’ve always loved hiking, but find just being outside even more satisfying than logging the miles. Working with folks who build trails on a regular basis, I’ve enjoyed learning their process; a good trail really is so much more than just a path in the woods! With this poem, I wanted to introduce some of the language and concepts of trail building. If you see a word you don’t recognize, look it up and enjoy exploring something new.
Then, get outside and go take a hike!
Today is Poetry Friday. When you get back from your walk, take a look at the collection over at Margaret Simon’s Reflections on the Teche.
Yet There is Method 