Spring may come this year, and with that perceived future on the horizon, many who frequent the Forebay Trailhead up Payson Canyon are looking forward to spending some time on the well-groomed mountain trails.
If you’re one who looks forward to riding your bike or taking a walk or run on any of these local trails, you may be interested to know that grooming doesn’t come naturally.
Just like any piece of land, grass and other plants grow over the trail and need people to maintain the trails particularly during the spring and summer months.
For many years, resident Carey Pierce has not only been building the trails, but maintaining them with the assistance of other locals here and there. In fact, during the 2022 season, Pierce spent over 200 hours doing trail maintenance in Forebay alone.
According to Pierce, maintaining the trails that often includes trimming trees back, weed whacking overgrown grass and removing loose rocks, is a labor of love. He said that he would love to share that love with anyone who is interested in helping.
“In June, I try to have a few days when people can help trim the trails, but trimming is an ongoing thing,” Pierce said. “The grass just keeps growing, and with all the water we’ve gotten this year, it’s going to be even longer – some areas even get up to six feet tall.”
The trails at Forebay total 10 miles, and when doing maintenance, Pierce said that it equals 20 total miles because you’re cleaning up both sides of the trail.
Pierce said that for those who are interested in helping with trail maintenance, there is a “Friends of Forebay” Facebook page that lets community members know about cleanup events.
Because spring weather will come, and what better way to enjoy spring than among the trees (on a well-maintained mountain trail).
