Moving and restoring the trail:
The TPC Trail Crew constructed two new sections of turnpiked trail to bypass two trail sections that were heavily impacted by Tropical Storm Fred.
- First rerouted section: 328 feet of turnpike constructed
- Second rerouted section: 217 feet of turnpike constructed
The constructed turnpike was built with an integrated cribwall located just above the original trail that circumvents these severe washouts and places the trail in a more sustainable location.
For trails like this that traverse flat, low-lying areas, turnpike is the preferred solution as it allows for a dry, elevated trail tread in areas where drainage is not possible due to lack of topographical variation. An elevated tread surface not only keeps hikers dry, but also eliminates negative impacts to the resource caused by heavy use and lack of drainage.
Additionally, the Trail Crew constructed locust ramps to re-enter the existing trail. These ramps allow for a gentle grade and a seamless connection where the two new turnpiked sections meet the existing trail.
Sustainable, long-term improvements:
The Trail Crew’s chosen construction methods – including the turnpike and ramp construction – allowed them to make these improvements without digging and potentially impacting the sensitive areas along the trail and the river.
As a result of the Exercise Trail Relocation project, these improved sections of trail will:
- Be less susceptible to damage during future adverse weather events
- Have reduced impacts to eroding banks along the Davidson River
- Provide a much more pleasant experience to the many hikers, runners, and campers that use this frontcountry trail
Although other sections of the Exercise Trail are likely to need repair following Hurricane Helene in September 2024, these two sections that the Trail Crew rerouted just six months before the storm remain intact and were minimally impacted.
