Signing (continued)

The classic reassurance marker is a blaze cut on a tree. The standard Forest Service blaze should always be used to differentiate it from the freeform blazes and antler rubbings that appear on nonsystem trails (Figure 70). Different types of blazes may be used on some specially designated trails, such as the Appalachian Trail. Cut blazes carefully as a mistake can't be repaired. If a blaze is consistently buried by snow during part of the use season, the blaze can be cut higher on the tree, but not so high that it becomes difficult to locate from the tread. Blazes are no longer cut on trees in many parts of the country.

Figure 70—Blaze trees on both sides. Cut no
deeper than necessary for clear visibility.

Next up the scale of reassurance markers is a routed or branded wooden trail marker, which is routed or branded onto wood and mounted on the tree. Routing and scorching is much more durable than branding. A variation of these markers are routed or branded national trail markers. Check with your local trail manager and review your forest plan to learn what's appropriate in designated wilderness—there is much variability nationwide.

Painted blazes are sometimes used for visibility. Be absolutely sure to use a template of a size specified in your trail management plan. Always use the specified color. Don't let just anyone start painting blazes. They should not be painted on rocks.

Marker tags or "blazers" are used when higher visibility is desired and esthetic considerations are not as high. Most common are colored diamonds of either plastic or metal. Various colors are used. For trails used by mountain bikes or off-highway vehicles, the tags should be reflective. These tags should be mounted on trees with aluminum nails. Allow 12 mm (½ inch) or so behind the tag for additional tree growth. Directional arrows, where appropriate, should be placed in a similar fashion. Blazers can also be mounted on wooden or fiberglass posts.

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