One Spring day, I hauled my mare down to Red Canyon Campground to do some more trail maintenance on the Ox and Box Canyon Trails that had been closed for a number of years since a forest fire destroyed the area.
We knew there would still be a lot of fallen trees in the burn zone to clear off of the trails, as well as blow downs from wind and storms. And of course, there would be a lot of brush clearing and trail work too.
But we did get to enjoy a couple miles of trail riding before the work began.
The beginning of the trail is covered by beautiful tall pines.
Pretty quickly, though, it was time to tie up our horses, mules and donkeys and get to work. Apache knows the drill and just chills out while waiting.
Unloading the tools and supplies from the packs.
This big old trail had fallen across the trail.
Everybody preparing to work.
Time to use the cross cut saw.
After getting several trees cleared off the trail, we traveled on until we came upon more fallen trees and overgrown sections.
We worked hard for several hours and then it was time to enjoy a lunch break.
It was nice to sit down and sprawl out beneath the shade of the pine trees.
When we have a lot of work to do, Apache spends most of the day standing around tied to trees. But she never seems to mind.
The burn zone of the forest fire looks stark and even creepy. But already there is vegetation starting to grow and fill in this area. It will take many years for trees to grow tall enough to create a forest again, though.
Lots more work to do after lunch. Everyone takes turns using the axes and saws so no one gets too worn out.
At the end of the day, Apache and I led the group back to the trailhead and parking lot.
Although we did stop a couple times to clear away anything we missed on the way out as well as to pick up any trash we found.
I think we actually only rode for less than 4 miles that day. Ox and Box Trails need a lot of work still. But it was still a great day and we accomplished a lot. And it was just great to be outside in nature with good people and great equines.
And Apache was happy to have her hay bag and a bucket of water waiting for her back at our trailer.
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