Warning: Saw a group destroy a hillside by cutting the switchback on Pine Ridge Trail

I was hiking Pine Ridge Trail last Saturday and saw a group just walk straight up the hill instead of using the switchback. The soil was loose and it started to wash away right in front of me. This isn't just about one bad hike, it's about everyone who thinks they save time by going off path. I've seen trails turn into mud pits because of this, and it makes me angry. We build these trails to protect the land, but some people don't care. If you see someone doing it, say something. It's our job to keep these places nice for the next people. I'm tired of watching beautiful spots get messed up because of laziness.

3 comments

3 Comments

rileym931mo ago

The soil washing away RIGHT in front of you on Pine Ridge Trail? That's INSANE. I've seen that happen before and it totally wrecks the trail.

the_cora1mo ago

Why do people think they can just wreck our trails? It's plain wrong. @rileym93 saw it too, that instant erosion is scary. I've had to help rebuild sections that were ruined by shortcuts. What's the best way to talk to someone who's cutting a switchback?

tylerr291mo ago

Exactly what @rileym93 said, ruins trails fast.