Summary
In this episode, host Joel Zieve interviews Alan Wheelwright, the executive director of Eden Valley Trails, about trail building in the Ogden Valley. They discuss the process of trail building, including factors such as user type, skill level, and soil conditions. They also explore the purpose of switchbacks and rock gardens in trail design. Alan shares his vision for the future of trails in the valley and discusses upcoming projects for Eden Valley Trails including exciting plans for 2024 at North Fork Park! The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to support trail building organizations and get involved in trail maintenance.
Keywords
trail building, Ogden Valley, target audience, soil conditions, switchbacks, rock gardens, directional trails, Eden Valley Trails
Takeaways
Trail building involves considering factors such as user type, skill level, and soil conditions.
Switchbacks are used to alleviate steep grades and improve safety on downhill trails.
Rock gardens are often used to armor trails and prevent erosion.
Directional trails, like Spork, reduce conflicts between trail users and improve the riding experience.
Eden Valley Trails aims to connect the Ogden Valley with a comprehensive trail network and improve existing trails.
Eden Valley Trails has big plans for new trails and a skills course at North Fork Park.
Listeners are encouraged to support trail building organizations and get involved in trail maintenance.
Titles
The Art of Trail Building: Understanding the Process
Switchbacks and Rock Gardens: Designing for Safety and Fun
Sound Bites
"Trails just don't appear. They take a tremendous amount of work to maintain."
"Switchbacks went in to alleviate the grade as you were dropping down."
"Rock gardens are put in as a source of armor in the trail."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:50 Guest Introduction: Alan Wheelwright and Trail Building in Ogden Valley
04:09 Understanding the Trail Building Process
06:30 Factors in Trail Design: User Type, Skill Level, and Soil Conditions
07:59 Purpose of Switchbacks and Rock Gardens in Trail Design
12:11 The Success of Spork and the Future of Directional Trails
16:00 Repairing and Maintaining Existing Trails
25:45 Upcoming Projects for Eden Valley Trails (including North Fork Park specifics)
31:13 Conclusion and Call to Action
