Naturalizing Abandoned Trails (continued)

Each abandoned trail should be closed (Figure 73). This is true whether an entire trail is abandoned or a segment with multiple trails is being narrowed back to one tread. If the trail is not blocked to prevent further use, the trail may persist indefinitely. Closure is particularly important if stabilization and revegetation are being attempted. The abandoned tread should be blocked to all traffic, recontoured, and disguised to prevent users from being tempted to take it. This work should be accomplished for all segments visible from trails that remain open.

Figure 73—Abondoned trails need to be blocked
off effectively, and with sensitivity.

Stabilize abandoned tread to prevent further erosion. This will promote natural revegetation in some instances. Trails break natural drainage patterns and collect and concentrate surface water flows. Restoring the natural contour of the slope reestablishes the local drainage patterns and reduces the likelihood of erosion. Recontouring usually eliminates any temptation to use the old trail and facilitates revegetation efforts. Pull any fillslope material back into the cut and use additional material to rebuild the slope, if necessary.

Remove culverts and replace them with ditches. Loosen the soil with hand tools, stock and harrow, or heavy equipment to speed revegetation.

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