Trail Discoveries

by Jo Swanson, NVC Executive Director

The Overlook. Lichen Log. Moose Scat Rock. Hope Ledges.

Image description: Lichen Log is one of many hidden gems along Moss Lake Trail.

You won't see these names on a map, but volunteers will remember these places for years to come.

This month, NVC volunteers gathered to work on Moss Lake Trail, a 3-mile path connecting Caribou Rock Trail with South Lake Trail near the Gunflint Trail. Moss Lake Trail is an important connector that allows for an adventurous loop hike or a nice day-long excursion.

Despite high temperatures and humidity, volunteers cleared downed trees, brushed out overgrown trail, and made the trail more sustainable by installing water diversions.

Along the way, points of interest acquired names as we commuted by foot in and out of the project area each day. There's a lot to see on Moss Lake Trail, and thanks to the volunteers, the trail itself is visible and so are many of the interesting points along the way.

Forest Techs Brett and Abby and volunteer Paul on Moss Lake Trail

We're grateful to the incredible individuals who joined us and who worked so hard to make this trail more enjoyable and sustainable. NVC also thanks the Legacy Trails Grant Program which provides partial funding for this project. 

Want to discover more hidden places? NVC is returning to the Gunflint Trail in just a couple of weeks. On August 1 - 3, we'll be working on South Lake Trail. There's still time to learn more and sign up!

Mud and More

Image description: A wet, gooey trail is host to several mud holes.

by Jo Swanson, NVC Executive Director

If you’re like me, you’ve traded out your normal shoes for mud boots more than once this past month. While we commiserate over the seemingly relentless rainfall, it’s worth remembering that our beloved trails are impacted by rain as well.

Wet conditions harm trails in many ways. When soils are soft, they are easily damaged. If trail users leave deep footprints or tire tracks behind, those holes and ruts fill with water. Mosquitoes love this; humans don’t love it, and they often skirt the wet areas, further damaging the ecosystem around the trail.

Whether you hike, bike, or recreate with motor vehicles, think twice about heading out to your favorite trail when conditions are soggy. Consider alternatives that may be more sustainable in wet conditions. If you’re going to the Superior National Forest, the SNF website is a great place to check for updates on road conditions, ideas for where to explore, and more.

If you’ve never given back to a trail by volunteering, now is a great time to join our effort to improve Moss Lake and South Lake Trails! Volunteers will work July 11-14 and August 1-3 to improve trail conditions. These beautiful trails near the Gunflint Trail have some wet areas where we'll work to make the area more sustainable. First-time volunteers are encouraged! Together, we can make sure these trails are around for generations to come. Learn more and sign up here.

Image description: A foggy lake in early-morning light is accessed by a volunteer-maintained trail.

Better Trails and Extra Fun

by Jo Swanson, NVC Executive Director

Smiles all around as the crew prepares to head out. Photo by Kevin Myrmel.

This month, I had the joy of spending a day working with the Kekekabic Trail Chapter of the North Country Trail Association. The primary project was constructing an important connector trail which will link the Kekekabic Trail with the Border Route Trail. 

It takes a lot of hard work to build and maintain trails, but it also takes a lot of laughter. I don’t think I went a full hour without laughing during my day with the Kekekabic Trail Chapter, and that was despite it being a dreary, rainy day! Volunteers always have both skills and stories to share and I felt lucky to meet so many amazing people and reconnect with some old friends, too.

That’s what I’m looking forward to most about NVC’s upcoming projects at Moss Lake Trail and South Lake Trail this summer - the stories and laughter we’ll share while on the trail together. NVC is still seeking volunteers for those projects, so please consider joining us. Tools, training, camping, and laughter will be provided. You can learn more here!

A little rain didn't deter the crew! Photo by Kevin Myrmel.