Rocky Top to
Derrick Knob Shelter
Crew
Leader: Amy Allamong
Assistant
Crew Leader: Ben
Royer
Session
Overview: This week we had a
small crew, but we are back on track with our sections. The section between Beechnut Gap and Rocky
Top is badly eroded in some areas. We cleared the existing drains, but this
section could definitely use more rock work such as steps. Some 30-50 foot runs
are on a 20+ grade and eroded down to bedrock. The bedrock here is soft and
easily eroded. North of Beechnut gap also has some very steep (almost vertical
climbs).
Specifications: Again,
this week we cut back the blackberry bushes and other perennial growth. We
continued to focus on sapling removal from the corridor. This week we stuck
closer to the 4ft defined corridor rather than trying to cut extra for
sustainability in the coming years. We were able to move a little quicker. As
we hiked through, we worked on the drains that could be cleaned easily and efficiently.
We did install one new rock water bar and one new log. The crew practiced solid
safety principles while working and hiking to the worksite.
Day 1: We hiked
in from Cades Cove via Anthony Creek Trail and Bote. This may be one of my
favorite hikes in so far, it was beautiful! The crew did great and we made it
in fine.
Day 2: We hiked
north of Beechnut Bap and met up with our end point from last session on Brier
Knob. We cleared about 1.1 mile; it was mostly brushing with the occasional
drain. This is the section that has the almost vertical section of trail you
have to climb up.
Day 3: We kept
working south and made it another 0.9 miles. The thickest section was just
north of Beechnut Gap. We also removed a failing log water bar and installed a
new rock one as seen in the pictures below.
Before a rock waterbar installation (above), and after rock water bar installation and drain enhancement (right).
Day 4: We worked
another 0.6 miles south of Beechnut towards Thunderhead. This section is badly
eroded so we focused on drains. We tried to clear all of them and make them
large. We made it to Thunderhead where it was thick with Rhododendron and
Blueberry. We spent some time clearing through here.
 |
The Trail before (left) and after (right).
Day 5: We
continued on to Rock Top. We cleared about 1 mile.
Day 6: Hike out
and breakdown at Soak Ash.
Week
Summary: We had a great week of weather! It kept everyone in high spirits and we
were able to work hard. Looking forward to next week! We will continue working
south from where we left off. We will be camping at Spence Field Shelter.
