The trails usually have a 2-foot-wide heavy traffic ‘tread’ in the middle of the path. This should be trimmed of all bushes and at ground level with no sharp points on the stumps. Sweet ferns though should be trimmed or pulled if smaller.
Next to the tread on each side are the tread margins which are is 3 feet wide (full trail widith is Tread and both margins (8 feet total width). In this zone smaller trees (under 1 inch diameter) should generally be cut close to ground level. There may be larger trees in this area and their limbs should be trimmed to at least 6 -8 feet high so trail users can pass under them even with snow. Any branches that reach into this border areas should be trimmed back. Other smaller growth items in this area like blueberries and other shrubs can be left in place unless they start to grow into the tread.
When trimming always cut branches and stumps at 90 degrees so they have no angled sharp points that could hurt trail users.
Please put all cut trees and branches well off trail (6-10 feet) where they are not noticeable.
The two biggest offenders are beech trees and small pine trees. Beech seedlings sprout on their roots, and they seek the light of the trail. We have found if you let a seedling grow this year you will be dealing with a small tree next year with much more work. Pine seedlings grow very thick and will usually die at 5 -7 years but in that time, they seek light and can quickly block a trail.
Thanks for helping keep our trails pristine!