WINTER 2020
Welcome to the end of 2020. It’s been a long hard road, but we’re in the home stretch.
Photo by Marcus West
Even with all the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Uwharrie Trailblazers have accomplished a remarkable number of goals in 2020 including facilitating major land acquisitions toward the completion of the Trail, establishing the outstanding Trail Adoption program, and completing a lot of trail work despite the inefficiencies of being physically and socially distanced during Trail Work Days. Trail bosses, club members, and volunteers have all gone out of their way to stay safe and keep others safe while still getting so much done. I am humbled and inspired by our group’s conscientiousness, patience, and kindness during these trying times, and I am positive it is these same qualities that will carry us through to see an end to this pandemic and a path towards a brighter future in 2021.
Kim AndersenFrom the chair
David Craft
Bus Driver
What a year it has been. While COVID quickly impacted our workdays, we managed to get much done.
Smaller groups have gone out and done some serious chainsaw work. Other crews worked on runouts and water control.
Much remains to be done. We'll never get ahead of the need. We're not supposed to!
We cancelled our December workday because of so much uncertainty out there.
We hope to open our new trailhead on High Pine Church Rd., Walkers Creek Trailhead, in January. This could certainly be a safe socially distant event. We may have to have timed entry, as I expect many to show up!
Our trail adopters, led by Jim Plant, are doing great work! Sections may come open down the road or we may put two folks on a section.
We are looking to add one member to our Trail Boss Crew to help coordinate and track work. We get great reports from Trail Adopters. We need some help pulling it all together into a consistent and organized work plan. Any project managers out there?
We'll hold our Annual Meeting and Speaker at a later date, once we can do so in person. From my experience in the last 8 months, the biggest challenge is maintaining the social bonds, that often come from being together. I know many of us have bonded down in our beautiful mountains!
We'll get through this, we always do.
Stay safe and take a hike and take friend!
From Saunterer to Sawyer: The Path to Giving Back
Steve “Chaco” Chase
“Just who are those Guys and Gals?” This was the question I asked myself many times while hiking the Appalachian Trail. I had seen their handiwork even in remote sections of the trail, a massive log cut and somehow moved off the trail tread, stone step-ways going all the way up a mountain, and level trail tread winding for miles around hill after hill. Then as I got further North I started seeing them with their hard hats and friendly smiles and I learned that they were all volunteers, some of them past thru-hikers, others retired school teachers, and some actually current thru-hikers taking time off of their hike to “pay it forward.” I also learned that without those volunteers, thousands of them along the almost 2200 mile AT, most of our trail systems would not even exist.
The author using chainsaw. Photo by Dave Gardener.
After that monumental hike I was intrigued and determined to find a local trail club and learn the skills needed to start my own “paying it forward” journey! When I learned of the Uwharrie Trailblazers, the work they do, and the fantastic annual UTB THRU-HIKE I was hooked!
I started showing up and pitching in at the monthly Second Saturday Work Days doing whatever I could from litter pick up to benching trail tread. When it was mentioned that the Club would be sending a few of the trail crew to Sawyer School with the US Forest Service to be certified with chainsaws, I jumped at the chance.
There we all learned chain saw safety, escape route planning, how to read bind on storm fallen tree trunks and limbs and “bucking and limbing” - the cutting up of downed trees and branches. Safety was always the first order of business. This was a two day class with a full day in the classroom and then a full day on Forest Service land under the watchful eyes of Rodney and Shawn, the Instructors. After we had passed the classroom and field instruction we were graded and issued a Class A or Class B Sawyer Certificate which decided if we could cut alone or cut and supervise others on a chainsaw crew. It was great fun honing our new skills, meeting new people and being able to participate more intensely in maintaining the Uwharrie Trail as well as other trails.
Instructors, Pennsylvania Wildfire Fireman Shawn and US Forest Service Ranger Rodney, during UTB Sawyer Certification School. Photo by Steve Chase.
Now that we were all set by the Forest Service as certified sawyers qualified to buck and limb downed trees, there was still another challenge ahead. In any Federally Designated Wilderness Area such as The Burkheads no chainsaws are allowed as well as no power tools of any kind, not even a wheel barrow. All cutting must be done with crosscut saws and axes and all persons doing such work on Federal Lands must be certified.
This meant we got the great privilege of attending a Crosscut Saw Certification Class with the fantastic folks of S.A.W.S., the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards. These dedicated folks help to maintain the designated wilderness areas all along the Southern Appalachian Range. It was great fun and very interesting learning how to use and maintain the large two person saws. We learned that all the saws they use were manufactured in the 1930’s and are very difficult to come by these days as all the machines used to make these saws were melted down to make tanks and battleships for World War II. Each saw had its own personality and cutting properties and had been given its own name by the SAWS Crew. We also learned that it can take up to 12 hours for a person to hand sharpen and “tune” one of these old saws and that when properly done it will stay sharp for an entire season of crosscutting. Again safety and care of these irreplaceable saws was stressed during the classes.
Mary Joan Manley Pugh on crosscut saw. Photo by Steve Chase.
The journey from saunterer to sawyer, at least for me, has been fun, interesting, educational and very personally fulfilling as I can now “pay it forward” the same way I witnessed being done all along the mighty Appalachian Trail. The Uwharrie Trailblazers are a great group of dedicated and motivated individuals and our saw crews are becoming more efficient, safer and constantly honing the skills needed to maintain the fantastic trail we all love!
William Brown, David Craft, Steve Chase, David Gardener, and Josh Kepley at Saw Efficiency Class at Straightway Sawmill. Photo by Billy Hagee.
Not long ago - thanks to the efforts of Billy Hagee and Josh Kepley - we were able to take a “refresher class” out at Josh’s Straightway Sawmill. Josh, who has been a lifelong professional logger, had us practicing efficient cutting, avoiding saw bar binding and saw chain sharpening.
Josh Kelpley of Straightway Sawmill teaching chain sharpening. Photo by Steve Chase.
Saw Chain sharpening class using the “Kepley Klamp” (thanks Josh); Steve Chase, top, and David Craft. Photo by Billy Hagee.
We picked up a lot of tips and got in some great practice on logs he had staged for the class. Josh even presented all attendees with their own “stump vice” for chain sharpening in the field, which he made himself and it sure makes chain sharpening a piece of cake!
Recently David Gardener and I have even joined with the saws crews of the Mountains to Sea Trail and helped clear blowdowns along that fantastic North Carolina Trail System. Prior to even being able to take these Certified Classes we all had to obtain a current card for a CPR Class and a few of us have also certified in Wilderness First Aid Training. I look forward to many more years of hiking, working and learning new skills with the Uwharrie Trailblazers while continuing this journey of “Paying It Forward.”
As Sir Winston Churchill famously said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Happy Trails!
Steve Chase blow down clearing on the Uwharrie Trail. Photo by Dave Gardener.
Wilderness is a Necessity
Elaine Shuck, photos and text
“Thousands of tired, nerve shaken, over civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home, that wilderness is a necessity”
We live in a truly amazing state and I am so incredibly grateful (more than ever) for our public lands, especially our National Forests. These wild and wonderful places are such a treasure! These are the places that we can escape to, places that are healing and places that speak to our childlike sense of wonder.
“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
Most people don’t realize that there are beautiful mountains and a forest full of opportunity for adventure just an hour east of Charlotte. I share this gem with many but almost want to keep it or at least parts of it “a best kept secret.” (I selfishly love that I can go to an incredible place and still find peace, quiet and solitude- not be overrun by the masses).
“Everybody needs beauty…places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.”
North Carolina has many gorgeous places. I’ve adventured in every North Carolina State Park/Natural Area, National Park, National Forest, most State Forests and other public lands in between. I’ve gotten close to 3,000 trail miles throughout NC (and beyond) since my total knee replacement in January of 2018 (incredibly grateful for that). Many times I am asked what or where is my favorite? Typically my answer is- wherever my boots are currently on trail or where my kayak is floating, simply being surrounded by nature. I know it seems like a cop-out answer, and there are places I visit more than others, but, there is honestly something very unique and special about each individual place.
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
Uwharrie National Forest is special to me for a number of reasons. There is something for everyone (the Outdoors For All), a variety of activities and ways to experience the forest. This is a place I can visit time and time again, like an old friend, but have a totally unique experience or discover something new each time. The same trail can feel fresh whether it is a different season, different weather, different encounter with wildlife or just a different day. There always seems to be a surprise, a hidden gem, something that will catch my eye, stop me in my tracks and take my breath away.
“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit. ”
Uwharrie National Forest is a place I can bring my elderly parents and enjoy sunset from the accessible dock at King Mountain Point (while watching bats fly around catching insects- hopefully a thousand mosquitoes☺), have a picnic or stroll around the paved trail. It’s a place I can rent a campsite for them to be surrounded by nature and safely enjoy a picnic by a campfire with a lake view- even if not staying all night. It’s a place they can see and experience the forest even if just from the car by driving the forest roads (we’ve done this a lot over the past 9 -10 months).
Uwharrie National Forest is also a place I can go to find solitude, adventure, be challenged or take an easy stroll. It is a place I can feel lost in the wilderness and at the same time feel connected. It is a place I can feel small and empowered at the same time. It is a great escape from the land of concrete and steel without driving hours. It allows an opportunity for the stresses of life to melt away. It is a place I can climb a rocky trail surrounded by towering trees and stand on top of a mountain or move along a ridge line with amazing views and in the same day take a more intimate walk along a quiet meandering stream lined with mountain laurel (and possibly filled with undiscovered gold☺ who knows).
“Keep close to nature’s heart…and break clear away, once in a while, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean. ”
No matter how you decide to enjoy and experience the Uwharries, know that it’s not always about the destination but that the Joy is in the Journey. Maybe slow down your pace or stop once in a while, breath it all in. Experience the forest with all of your senses (well OK, so maybe don’t eat stuff ☺) even though you can almost taste the forest after a rain and you can always eat snow! Either way, soak it all up. All too often we rush from one thing to the next and miss so much along the way. Maybe the Journey is the Destination. You’d be surprised how much you will discover if you can slow down or stand still and be present, truly experience where you are. Live life, don’t just exist.
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. ”
So a few last thoughts from my time in the forest.
Some of my favorite experiences while exploring are to find places to be still and experience the forest (even if just for a minute on two) take time, stop and appreciate the little things, not just the “big things.” Stand still in the middle of the trail (maybe not MTB trail ☺), close your eyes, take a deep breath and listen. Inhale deeply and allow your lungs to fill with forest air. Feel the warmth of sunshine on your face. Feel the cool crisp air on your skin. Hear the sounds of dry fall leaves rustling in the breeze. Listen to the story the water is telling as it is cascading down the stream making its way through the many obstacles in its path. Listen to the conversation that the birds are having and join it if you want. Deeply inhale again and smell the forest, a variety scents will flood in that can’t truly be bottled (and some shouldn’t ☺).
Stand and watch as a harmless black racer snake freezes when you get too close and then starts vibrating its tail to say “don’t mess with me, I’m trouble.” Go a little further until you reach a creek and then stand still again, in the middle of the creek, feeling the cold water rushing around your feet and legs. Listen to the water again as it speaks softly and take time to watch the water carry a leaf on its journey downstream. Stay out until dusk and enjoy the transformation of the forest from the time when the sun casts long creeping shadows on the forest floor to when it covers the landscape in golden hues. Listen to the sounds of owls moving through the forest as they call to each other. Stay out a little longer and enjoy sunset surrounded by trees and experience the forest as dusk turns into night. There seems to be a rush of activity followed by a silence which is then followed by an awakening as the forest comes alive and takes on a different personality. If you have the time, camp out and get to know the forest at night then enjoy a new transformation in the morning.
“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in. ”
Don’t be afraid to go out in the rain. Sometimes rain provides us with an entirely new experience in a place we’ve visited 100 times before…it changes our perspective and brings our focus in. Sometimes when there are no clouds, our focus is so far ahead we miss what is right in front of us (I recently stepped on an eastern king snake because of this-snake was ok but took off quickly). At times the stormy skies change our perspective and help us appreciate the smaller blessings. The forest, trails and creeks will have a whole new life and personality in or right after a rain. Small things may be bigger and we might see little things that were previously unnoticed. Waterfalls may appear and once quiet streams and rivers may roar, filling the forest with a loud voice. Rain drops will play a melody falling through the forest canopy landing on leaves, rocks, roots and in puddles. It can also be a bit mysterious as mist and fog settle over the creeks and creep through the landscape. The colors may not be on fire with light from the sun, but in some ways, those colors are deeper, richer, and more impactful. You will have an increased appreciation for details like a water droplet clinging to a needle leaf, a flower peddle or moss. Don’t let a little “weather” keep you from exploring- embrace it.
““Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of autumn. ”
It’s All Yours! The National Forest Foundation started that campaign a number of years ago to build awareness about all of the recreation opportunities in our National Forests and Grasslands along with encouraging responsible recreation and stewardship of these incredible and cherished places. It is all ours, yours! Let’s take ownership of it!
I am incredibly grateful for organizations like the Three Rivers Land Trust, the Uwharrie Trailblazers, the National Forest Foundation, the USFS and dedicated rangers (along with many other and all of the volunteers who give of their time and energy). Nature and the trail can teach so many lessons, one in particular I shared with all of the non-profit partners I used to work with through REI (I am reminded of this every fall).
I was out on the trail enjoying a hike and kept seeing these cool acorns scattered on the forest floor amidst the colorful leaves. I’m always inspired by nature, so thought I'd share this simple thought… Never think that what you have to give is too little or insignificant... look at this little acorn, it is the future of the forest and could one day be a mighty tree... and along with all the other acorns, be a forest.
Every little thing pulled together can be huge. Don't hesitate to give back no matter how big or small (time, money or energy...) because you don't realize how impactful it really can be. If everyone just did a little, it would add up to a lot. What you do matters, it CAN and WILL make a difference! Surely the task can seem overwhelming at times but what you do is so important and making a big difference.
During this season I am extremely grateful for the Uwharries and YOU! I truly appreciate all the work that you ALL do to manage, steward and protect our public lands, specifically the Uwharrie National Forest.
This is a place full up surprises, rich in history and a land of opportunity. I look forward to continuing my adventures.
“It’s not about the number of breaths we take but the number of moments that take our breath away. ”
Live life, don't simply exist- whatever you are able to do, do it... climb a mountain or enjoy time in your backyard- get out and keep moving.
Joy Shuck, author, photographer, adventurer
Finding Our Way in the Woods
Jim Plant, photos and text
Do you need a PHD to set a sign? Yes. A Post Hole Digger is needed!
The Uwharrie Trailblazers have advocated for better hiking trail signs in the Uwharrie National Forest. A few years ago, the UTB established a program to redo all the trail signs along the Uwharrie Trail and for the trail system in the Birkhead Wilderness. Working with the Forest Service, Andy Newcomb, Daniel Alexi and his Boy Scouts, the UTB used mileage compiled by Don Childrey in preparation for his hiking guide, Uwharrie Lakes Region Trail Guide, to design, build and install the new signs. The signs for the Uwharrie Trail were made with treated wood, painted Forest Service brown with yellow routed lettering. For the Birkhead Wilderness, natural cedar with routed lettering was used. The Birkhead signs were installed in January 2019. We have just received the final batch of 19 signs this December. We’ll have to let the treated wood dry before painting them. Sometime in early 2021, we’ll have them ready to plant.
From the first batch of signs.
Birkhead sign set in concrete.
Since the Birkheads are a wilderness, the Forest Service desires signs only at trailheads and major intersections. Getting lost in the Birkheads will still happen but it will be a bit harder now. It seems we forgot to identify Robbins Branch Trail and Hannah Creek Trail at critical trail junctions. I know of only one search and rescue because of that. There are temporary signs up now at those spots. We’ll have the permanent ones up in a couple months.
Yes, there IS an app for leveling a sign!
Don Childrey and I let the scouts do the hard work. We didn't even supervise, these guys are well trained and a great group of young men.
Earlier this year, the Birkhead signs got a fresh look. See what a coat of linseed oil can do?
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
From the Uwharrie Trailblazers
editorial policy
The contents of this newsletter are authored collaboratively by the Uwharrie Trailblazers steering committee unless otherwise attributed and are intended to illuminate, educate, and inspire all who enjoy the trails of the Uwharries. The newsletter is edited by Uwharrie Trailblazers club secretary Kim Andersen. We welcome suggestions and questions from all readers.
Please send feedback and questions via email to uwharrietrailblazers@gmail.com and visit us on Facebook!
