Trail Transformation: Big Canoe Trails Committee Partners with Utilities Inc of Georgia to Revitalize Cabin Loop Trail
Top row: UIG team (L to R): Cody Grant, Dane Duncan (skid operator), Trevor Griffith and Ashley Wedeles (team lead). Middle row: BCTC Liz Scherer, Greg Murphins, Bill Merrick. Front row: P.J. Docka, Doug Hickman, Ignacio Leon
In the heart of Big Canoe’s lush landscape lies the Cabin Loop Trail, a short, serene path that winds about in the woods behind the 1880s Cabin—a treasured historical landmark at the Nature Valley Park. Recently, this trail received much-needed attention thanks to a collaborative effort between the Big Canoe Trails Committee and Utilities Inc of Georgia (UIG).
The Big Canoe POA provided a load of gravel for the project
Each year, UIG selects an organization to support through volunteer work, and this year, we were fortunate to be chosen. Led by Ashley Wedeles, the UIG team brought not only enthusiasm and energy but also a skid, which proved invaluable for the project.
Members of the UIG team improving footing on one of the trail entrances
UIG team members Trevor Griffith, Ashley Wedeles, Dane Duncan and Cody Grant. Photo by Wendy Sampson.
In preparation for the project, one of our Trails Committee members, Javier Rodriguez (JR), a civil engineer with a specialty in drainage, conducted a thorough assessment of the Cabin Loop Trail. His expertise was crucial in identifying the specific areas where water diversion was most needed and in designing a plan to address the erosion challenges.
Working on a trench to keep water off the other trail entrance
On the day of the project, the UIG team met us at the cabin, accessible via the Jeep Trail. With the skid, they graded areas above and upslope of the trail, creating crucial water diversions to protect the trail from future washouts. Additionally, we tackled heavily eroded sections, rebuilding them with gravel mixed with sand, provided by Big Canoe’s POA, and carefully spread by both teams.
Gravel delivery with the help of the skid
This collaboration is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of preserving our natural and historical treasures. The newly reinforced Cabin Loop Trail is now better equipped to withstand the elements and continue providing residents and visitors with a safe and scenic hiking experience.
PJ Docka and Doug Hickman assess the slope reshaping that will result in keeping water off the trail
For places where the skid could not reach the gravel was transported with buckets
P.J. Docka, Ashley Wedeles, Trevor Griffith. Photo by Wendy Sampson
The picnic area next to the cabin also had improvements with grading to ensure the water does not pool
Wendy Sampson of UIG getting ready to take some group photos