One of the activities that the Garber Park Stewards has carried out over the past year is the amendment and improvement of the one-mile Loop Trail that traverses most of the forests and ecosystems that make up the Park. We have replaced deteriorating steps at the Evergreen Lane entrance and cut “steps” in the most steep sections. We have also tried to channel away water runoff, level sloping walkways, widen eroded spots, and buttress trail boundaries. Recently we put some wire mesh on the Upper Loop bridge to try to improve traction.
Even with these measures, however, care must be taken when hiking in Garber Park because the trail is still rugged and quite steep in places. At the Evergreen Lane entrance there are some walking sticks; please use them and return them for the next walkers. If you walk down the stairs to Fireplace Plaza and along the Lower Loop trail you can also avoid the steep switchbacks on the Upper Loop Trail. The entire trail is easier to walk if you begin at the Fireplace Plaza and walk the lower section first.
The Stewards always appreciate feedback and information about specific points or conditions on the Loop Trail. We will continue working to improve it and to explore alternative routes. This is always a collaborative effort. We especially want to thank the many volunteers who have helped make the trails just a little bit safer.
