Columnist Barb Henderson: Take a hike … and aid a scenic trail

Barb Henderson

Friday, May 28, 2004 | 8:48 a.m.

Barb Henderson is an outdoors enthusiast, freelance writer and producer/host of outdoors radio television programming. Her column appears Friday in the Sun.

Are you interested in doing some volunteer work? Well, come on, grab your gloves and head to the mountain.

The U.S. Forest Service is seeking volunteers for National Trails Day to work on portions of a mountainous trail named Mary Jane Falls.

This magnificent trailhead is surrounded by spectacular beauty within the Spring Mountain Recreation Area of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The scenic 318,000 acres surrounding the area are often referred to by three names: Humboldt -- Toiyabe National Forest, Mount Charleston and the Spring Mountain National Recreation Area.

The Mary Jane Falls trail is 1.2 miles and rated a strenuous hike. The trail is considered one of the more popular trails on the mountain for experienced hikers.

On National Trails Day -- Saturday, June 5 -- volunteers are needed to assist the U.S. Forest Service with stabilizing the areas adjacent to this popular trail compromised by hikers who have been shortcutting along its switchbacks.

"It is important to repair the damage caused by shortcutting the switchbacks because it is unsightly, resources are being affected, and as long as people can see these shortcuts, they may think it is OK continue to use them," said Amy Meketi, natural resource specialist with the U.S. Forest Service.

"We hope reclaiming these disturbed areas and providing interpretive signage will encourage more users to stay on the designated trail, which will give the slopes a chance to recover."

Volunteers should meet at the Mary Jane Falls trailhead. The work has been scheduled from 9:30 a.m. until noon.

Be sure to wear appropriate clothing while on the mountain, including long pants and sturdy hiking boots. Remember, among those backpack items, don't forget to pack a hat, gloves, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water.

To reach Mary Jane Falls, take U.S. 95 north to State Route 157, then go west on SR 157 for approximately 18 miles. When the highway switches back to the left, go right and follow Echo Road for about a half mile.

Volunteers will have an opportunity to pitch in and make a difference on the mountain while discovering additional knowledge about the Mount Charleston area. Mount Charleston can be a refreshing journey, especially in the summer when mercury rises to three digits in the valley. The natural beauty found on the mountain has a unique "cool" way of welcoming folks.

For the most part, you'll probably find a 20-degree temperature change in the higher elevation, so take along a jacket. Be prepared, even in the summer. The cool evening breezes can drop temperatures to around 40 degrees or even cooler at times.

For additional information on volunteering for National Trails Day, contact the U.S. Forest Service at (702) 515-5400.

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