OH- June 6, 2006 OH-101 East Segment:
I'm the American Whitewater Streamkeeper for the stretch of Little Beaver Creek that runs along the section of the NCST between Beaver Creek State Park's main unit and the group camping area at Sprucevale (Gretchen's Lock). As a regular paddler for this area I've often hiked the shuttle by taking the NCST back upstream from Sprucevale, as I did this last Sunday, June 4, 2006.
I was dismayed at the condition of the trail on the Sprucevale end of this section of trail, as it was nearly impassable due to heavy use by riders on horseback. There is an extensive network of horse trails in the area, and the one hiking trail. The hiking trail is marked "NO HORSES" at every intersection with a riding trail, but still the riders are taking their mounts down the hiking trail. I can understand the urge to do this, since the horseback trails are a muddy, uneven mess and the NCST is (was) a nicely groomed trail, but they are quickly bringing the NCST down to the condition of the riding trails.
This last weekend was rainy, and the trail was muddy and uneven , torn up by hoofprints, and covered with horse droppings. It was extremely difficult to even find a route through the mire, much less have an enjoyable walk. I'm also sending a complaint to Beaver Creek State Park.
Submitted by Stephen Zerefos
OH- February 15, 2005 OH-101 East Segment:
Beaver Creek State Park Hiked this short section last Sunday Feb 7, 2005. Im sorry to say but the horses have virtually destroyed the trail. Mud over the boots in many places. They even went along the sides of the hill caving in the trail. I only live about 20 miles away but I usually avoid it.
Submitted by Pat, hiker
OH- August 19, 2004 BTA Massillon, Bowerston, Belle Valley Maps, and OH-105 Segment:
Hiker report of the NCT from Ring Mill in the Wayne National Forest, to Zoar, 143 miles. a Word Document. The report is south to north, the opposite of the Buckeye Trail description so it may be helpful to others hiking in that direction. The route south of the connection to the Buckeye Trail is the one suggested by Wes Boyd in his guide, and the one followed by Ed Talone, thru-hiker.
Submitted by Joan Young, hiker
OH- December 1, 2005 BTA Troy Map:
The Great Miami Trail has been closed where it goes under I-70 at Taylorsville Metro Park. Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is replacing both bridges. This will be closed until at least May 24, 2007. Five Rivers Metro Parks of Montgomery County (Dayton) is aware of this. This is the route of the Buckeye Trail and also the North Country Trail. Check on Miami Valley Trails to get latest information. The alternate route is from Pt 11 go North on Rip Rap Road, East on Taylorsville to Bridgewater Road, North on Bridgewater Road to Route 40, West on Route 40 across Miami River to Buckeye Trail at North side of parking lot at Point 12.
Submitted by Woody Ensor edited per BTA web site 4/5/07
"I'll mark reports of new markings, cleanups, new trail... you know what makes you smile."