UC Davis Natural Reserve System
Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve

UC Davis NRS Reserves

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Trails

How did those steps get there?

In 2000, with a generous grant from UCOP-NRS, I began the task of doubling the length of the trail system by creating a loop from the lush canyon floor to the top of the Blue Ridge west of the canyon. The trail leaves the canyon trail near the homestead and ascends the ridge in a series of switchbacks that include many steps and a small bridge over the a travertine spring. At the ridgetop, the trail follows the crest to the precipitous cliff overlooking Monticello Dam, then descends steeply to the highway.

The steepness of the slope and narrowness of the trail, between two drainages, required the installation of steps to ensure safe footing and prevent unnecessary erosion. Over 200 steps were carried the two miles to the beginning of the ascent and installed until the ridge was reached. How did I do all this? 

 

Trail construction was accomplished through the cooperation of hand crews from California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) Delta Conservation Camp and UC Davis NRS personnel. Delta Conservation Camp fire crews, also known as hand crews, provided the muscle that cleared the trails, delivered the steps, and installed "the staircase in the wilderness." When these crews are not containing fire outbreaks or dealing with other disasters such as heavy snows, search and rescue operations, earthquakes and floods, they support state projects like this trail. Without their assistance we would still be walking up two separate trails and/or stumbling through poison oak laden brush off the trail, where we know we aren't suppose to go.

Thanks Delta Camp!

Shane Waddell
UCD NRS

(For more information on CDF Fire Crews see: http://www.fire.ca.gov/FireEmergencyResponse/CooperativeEfforts/camp.asp)
 

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Last Updated 03/09/06