Upgrading Infrastructure on Fox Creek

On August 28, we joined up with the USFS Ketchum Ranger District trail crew to head out to Fox Creek to upgrade a few climbing turns.

Two of the turns on Fox Creek were being supported by old log retaining walls. These naturally degrade over time, and need to be replaced/upgraded. Not only do the logs stop doing their job as they break down, but these old walls were built with rebar supports. As the logs degraded, the rebar became exposed, creating a hazard in the trail.

On one of the turns, we used a mini rock retaining wall to support the trail, and on the other, we used a new log retaining wall.

The rock won’t have the same degradation issues the old log wall did, and the new log wall was installed without rebar, so even though it will eventually need replaced (in 20-30 years), it won’t be a safety hazard as it breaks down.

Getting out and getting after these kinds of infrastructure upgrade projects are only possible when we have a fully staffed and funded trail crew. The quicker the crew can take care of basic seasonal maintenance (like clearing logs), the more time they have for these kinds of projects. Thanks to all of our members who help support the Ketchum Ranger District Trail Crew through your membership dollars and the Trail Maintenance Memorial Fund!