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Gil Larsen Trail Boardwalk Replacement

10/21/2022

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October 13 was a chilly but beautiful day to be working on the Gil Larsen Trail in Bayfield’s Big Ravine. With the goal of replacing the boardwalk overlooking the waterfalls, a select group of BATs volunteers, under the leadership of Trails Anonymous’ Will Krift, placed six-by-six crib-wall beams and pounded rebar stakes to hold them in place. 
Will Krift and Gene Lemmenes standing in the foundation framing for the new boardwalk.
Will Krift and Gene Lemmenes - Click to enlarge image.
​They also worked on the frame for the new boardwalk, and would later install new decking. Work started on the project earlier in the week when the crew tore out the old boardwalk. 

“The old boardwalk was forty-plus years old and starting to show its age -- built on posts on a shelf above the creek. Plus, it was recently damaged by a tree that fell across it in September,” explained City of Bayfield Parks and Recreation Committee chair Kate Kitchell. “With more and more people using the Gil Larsen—many with children, the Committee determined that it would be wise to stabilize the structure as well as add railing. It’s a much nicer viewing area for the waterfalls, and easier for people to take pictures.”
Setting the foundation above the creek. Will & Bill above the creek edge.
Setting the foundation above the creek. Will & Bill above the creek edge.
“There we go!” whooped volunteer Gene Lemmenes, lowering his sledgehammer after driving a piece of rebar through the boardwalk frame. “It’s amazing we haven’t hit any rock. Look at it! Loose rocks up there, loose rocks everywhere; you’d think there would be bedrock.”

“It’s a hybrid between a crib wall and a boardwalk,” Will explained. “The crib will help prevent future erosion and keep the hillside in place. And because we’re replacing the boardwalk, it won’t really change the look.” Will has been busy during the trail-building season working on projects all the way from the Cable area up the Iron Range. Kate calls him, “A project leader extraordinaire!”
​Will thought the project was going smoothly and was especially grateful to the Coast Guard for carrying the six-by-six beams and other materials down the Sweeny Switchback and across the stream to a more accessible staging area.
Gil Larsen Boardwalk completed, viewed from a distance.
Gil Larsen Boardwalk complete view looking away from the stone steps.
Gil Larsen Boardwalk complete looking toward the stone steps.
The completed boardwalk. Click images to enlarge.
​The new boardwalk was funded by the City of Bayfield over two fiscal years. Many thanks to volunteers Bill Bland, Kate Kitchell, Gene Lemmenes, Scott Nesvold, Keith Ray, and Pete Rothe, who helped with the project.
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About the Adopt-A-Trail Program

9/25/2022

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Hemlock Heights trail meandering along the Big Ravine.
Hemlock Heights Trail
​2022 marked the first year of the Bayfield Area Trails Adopt-a-Trail program. Through the Trails Subcommittee, we signed up twenty adopters to monitor over thirty trail segments from Ashwabay to Frog Bay to Siskiwit Bay.
​Trail Adopters are stewards and advocates for a section of trail within the BAT system. They serve as “eyes and ears” for the entities that own/manage the trails and lands that they traverse. Adopters perform an essential service: helping to maintain a safe high-quality experience for trail users and keeping the land managers informed about trail condition and use. 

Trail Adopters visited and maintained their trail sections starting in May until mid-October. Using hand tools only, they performed basic trail maintenance. When an adopter identified safety concerns, large impediments, trail failures, or issues that required action beyond their capacity, this information was sent timely to the Trail Manager Contacts to resolve the issue and alert the public as needed. 

Adopters submit a Trail Condition and Maintenance Report for their trail section by May 15th, August 1st, and October 15th. Adopters may choose to submit more frequent reports about conditions and completed maintenance. Reports are shared with the Trail Manager Contacts after each due date. 
List of trails adopted in 2022.
List of trails adopted in 2022. Click to enlarge image.
​Based upon the lessons learned in 2022, Bayfield Area Trails will expand the Adopt-a-Trail program in 2023. Keep your eyes peeled to sign up next spring.
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Pikes Creek to Ashwabay Trail Work Begins

9/20/2022

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​An enthusiastic group of Northland College students recently spent a day doing service work on the new Pikes Creek Trail as part of their August Welcome Experience to the Chequamegon Bay area. 
A group of Northland College students lined up for a group photo.
The group of Northland College students who came to help with the trail building. Click to enlarge image.
​According to Kate Kitchell, Bayfield Area Trails Chair, this was the “launch” of work on the Trail which will start at the Les Voigt State Fish Hatchery on Highway 13 south of Bayfield, and connect with the Jolly Loop at Mt. Ashwabay.
A group of Northland college students cutting the trail through the forest.
​Prior to the Northland students’ work, a BATs crew established and flagged a six-foot wide trail corridor, routing it around bigger trees. Then two chainsaw crews--led by BATS Trails Subcommittee members Kris Wegerson and John Ipsen—cut shrubs and small trees from the corridor. The Northland students hauled and dispersed vegetation into the woods, lopped and clipped branches, and raked a four-foot-wide trail tread. 
Volunteers Kris Wegerson and John Ipsen set with their safety gear and chainsaws.
Volunteers Kris Wegerson and John Ipsen cut shrubs and small trees from the corridor. Click to enlarge image.
​A big shout-out and many thanks to Sean Reagan and his employer, Cisco, who pays employees for up to 80 hours of volunteer work for nonprofits or charities annually through their program “Time to Give.” “He found us,” Kate Kitchell said of Sean. “He’s a volunteer from the Twin Cities—and he brought his own tractor!” Sean used his tractor to pull stumps and smooth the surface of the trail after the chainsaw crew and students completed the initial clearing.
Sean Regan showing thumbs-up, standing next to a red tractor.
Volunteer Sean Reagan and his handy tractor. Click to enlarge image.
The recent work was done on the half-mile long “B” segment of the Pikes Creek Trail. The “C” segment starts at the Fish Hatchery, and the “A” segment connects to the Jolly Loop.
A group of Northland College students sitting on the side of the new trail.
Northland College students resting at the end of the workday. Click to enlarge image.
​“It’s beautiful in the trees—and not too hot. And dragging large branches into the woods gets some stress out,” one Northland student commented.

​Another added, “I liked seeing the outcome of our work. When we started, we couldn’t see any trail. And some trees fought back! But when we finished, I thought, ‘Wow! There’s the trail!’ I feel good about giving back to the community.” 
​The students were from all over including Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, central and southern Wisconsin, and the Twin Cities area. Several students planned to major in outdoor education; others were studying biology and natural resources. Welcome, all, to the Chequamegon Bay Area! And thanks for your work on the Bayfield Area Trails!
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The New Pikes Creek to Ashwabay Trail

9/20/2022

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​Thanks to sponsorship from the Town of Bayfield and approval from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Bayfield Area Trails is moving forward with the development of the new “Pikes Creek to Ashwabay Trail” that will connect from the Les Voigt Fish Hatchery on Highway 13 south of Bayfield to the Jolly Long Loop of the Mt. Ashwabay trails network.
Map showing the Pikes Creek to Ashwabay trail. Starts on right at Pikes Creek. Ends on the left at the Jerry Jolly trail system.
Map showing the Pikes Creek to Ashwabay trail. Click to enlarge image.
The 1.3-mile-long non-motorized trail will cross Pikes Creek and the floodplain, climb up along a side ravine, and then traverse the plateau above Pikes Creek to join the Jolly Long trail at its western end. Ultimately, there are plans to develop a connection directly to the Mt. Ashwabay trailhead and parking area. ​

​The trail is designed for foot and snowshoe use; because of the special protections in the DNR’s Pikes Creek Management Area, no motorized or bicycle use will be allowed. 
Trail construction begins. A rough-cut dirt trail through the forest.
A first look at trail construction. Click to enlarge image.
“We are super excited about this project as it will create an essential linkage toward our vision for the Bayfield Area Trails network. It also travels through beautiful terrain and forest,” says Kate Kitchell, Bayfield Area Trails Committee Chair. 

​Trail planning began in spring of 2021 with early exploration by adventurers Mick Parent, Ted and Tracy May, and John Olson. In the fall of 2021, the route was refined with the help of Steve Vizanko, Scott Nesvold, Peter Rothe, and Kate Kitchell, based upon finding the best location for the bridge across Pikes Creek. Coordination and permitting with DNR started in December 2021, culminating with approval to proceed in July 2022. 
Steve Vizanko of Bayfield Nordic sees this as a positive addition to the area’s trails. “Adding this as a snowshoe trail will create a great opportunity, as well as alleviate some existing conflicts between snowshoers and nordic skiers. Plus, the views from the plateau in winter time will be fantastic.” 
Winter scene looking through forest off a plateau on Pikes Creek to Ashwabay trail.
Winter view from plateau on the trail. Click to enlarge image.
​This is planned as a two-year project, with trail building of Segments A, B, and C this fall; followed by boardwalks and bridge installation at Pikes Creek next year (2023).  Most of the work will be completed by volunteers, combined with assistance from the Ashwabay Outdoor Education Foundation on Segment A. Due to the challenge and sensitivity of the terrain, Segment C will be led by professional trail builder Will Krift from Trails Anonymous in mid-October.
Another view of initial trail development. A rough-cut dirt trail through the forest.Picture
Another view of initial trail development. Click to enlarge image.
​Work was launched on August 30 – 31. We will soon reach out via email to recruit and schedule volunteers to work on Segment C. If you are not on the BATs email list and you are interested in volunteering, please sign up here. 
​This year’s trail building is possible thanks to funding from the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, Apostle Islands Area Community Fund, Bayfield County Health Grant, Town of Bayfield, and donations from Sue Aiken, Mike Eldred & Kate Kitchell, Genevieve Johnson & Mike Kinnee, Ted and Tracy May, Jen Maytum & Nick Parent, Kathleen Russell, and three anonymous donors.
COMING SOON
Name The Trail
​

After the trail is constructed this fall, Bayfield Area Trails will be seeking suggestions for naming the trail.

PUT ON YOUR THINKING CAPS!
​The Bayfield Area Trails Committee is also especially grateful for the support from the Town of Bayfield Board, Clerk and Treasurer; without them, this project would not have been possible.
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Big Improvements to the Jerry Jolly Overlook Trail Loop

8/14/2022

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Chainsaw work prep for building one of the water bars to control erosion.
Chainsaw work prep for building one of the water bars to control erosion.
Bayfield Area Trails and Bayfield County Forest Staff made big improvements to the Jerry Jolly Overlook trail loop.
​The Jerry Jolly Trail west of Bayfield is especially popular among snowshoers and cross-country skiers in the winter. Now, with the recent efforts of Bayfield Area Trails’ volunteers working in collaboration with Bayfield County, the trail is likely to become a more popular destination for non-motorized travel during snow-free months as well (foot traffic only).
"Hikers will enjoy walking the nice loop along the trail, climbing to a forest overlook point and strolling along Pikes Creek,” said volunteer crew leader Mike Kinnee who helped organize area citizens to make needed improvements throughout the loop trail. “There’s a lot of interesting ferns and unique flora out there. We found some beautiful lady slippers out there last spring,” he added.
Fifteen Bayfield Area Trail volunteers worked to greatly enhance the Jerry Jolly Overlook Loop Trail that originates at the Pikes Creek bridge about 0.6 miles from the trailhead. This new 0.5-mile-long loop travels from the Pikes Creek bridge, up to the Overlook, across the ridge, and back down to the bridge. The volunteers significantly brushed and cleared the trail, constructed a 32-foot boardwalk across a perennial muddy spot, re-routed a short section, and dug in several water bars to better manage rainwater down a steep hillside to prevent erosion.
Three new signposts were added, and additional wayfaring signs were relocated to better serve trail users. A forthcoming interpretive sign will be placed at the trailhead to explain the history of this site and highlight notable natural features.
Happy crew working on building a water bar for erosion control.
Happy crew working on building a water bar for erosion control.
Erica and Tracy working on ground prep.
Mark and Jeff completing one of 11 water bars.
Mark and Jeff completing one of 11 water bars.
Mark drilling holes for rebar stakes to secure a water bar.
Mark drilling holes for rebar stakes to secure a water bar.
​The biggest job, however, was the addition of two bridges. The main bridge, damaged last winter, was replaced with a six-by-six-inch timber bridge that was constructed on-site by volunteers working with Bayfield County staff.  A second bridge across a small ravine was repurposed from another location and put in by county employees. 
32 feet of new boardwalk
32-feet of new boardwalk.
The project included a new foot bridge across a small drainage
The project included a new foot bridge across a small drainage.
​The original trail was made possible in 2006 by Jerry Jolly, who lived nearby. He donated 72 acres of the land here, containing the creek, meadows, and forests to Bayfield County with the desire that it be open to people for recreation.  While Mr. Jolly has since passed, his legacy gift continues to provide great enjoyment to all who recreate here. It is particularly beautiful in the autumn when one can walk along Pikes Creek reflecting the colors of the fall leaves or from the hilltop overlook gazing through the colorful forest to the creek below.
Jerry Jolly Trail Project Map. Click image to enlarge map.
Jerry Jolly Trail Project Map. Click image to enlarge map.
​“It was a great collaboration between the County Forest staff and the Bayfield Area Trails’ volunteers,” said Lindley Mattson, Recreation Specialist for Bayfield County Forests and Parks.  “The work got done faster and more efficiently than I had expected,” she added. “A great deal was accomplished over just a few days.”
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Exciting Land Donation on the Big Ravine’s East Rim Trail

7/30/2022

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Plaque on bench in memory of Jan T. Larson
Plaque on trail bench in memory of Jan T. Larson. Click to enlarge image.
Map showing the Big Ravine corridor.
Map showing the location of the Larson land donation. Click image to enlarge.
​Public access along the Big Ravine’s East Rim Trail is now more secure for future generations thanks to a generous gift from Emeline Larson. Four lots encompassing almost one-half of an acre were donated by Mrs. Larson to the City of Bayfield in honor of her late husband Jan T. Larson. Since the land is within the City’s Conservancy District, allowable land uses will remain very limited in order to maintain naturalness and protect the watershed.

“We both loved how this property was perched on the edge. The views into the ravine and over the lake were always inspiring. I know that Jan would be happy to know that this special place will be forever protected and enjoyed by hikers.” A memorial bench has been placed on the property so that people can enjoy the views that the Larson’s loved. 
Bench along a trail in the forest.
A memorial bench has been placed on the property so that people can enjoy the views that the Larson’s loved. Click image to enlarge.
This donation was facilitated by the City’s Parks and Recreation Committee in order to establish long-term public access on the East Rim Trail, which has quickly become a cherished walking experience for the Bayfield area community. One Bayfield resident said “This trail has changed our lives. We walk there almost every day and never get tired of it.”

“We are incredibly grateful for this donation. Mrs. Larson’s generosity leaves a positive and long-lasting legacy, and we hope that others will consider following her example,” said Kate Kitchell, City Parks and Recreation Committee Chair.

Thanks also go to the City Council and staff who supported this project. 
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The Apostle Islands Lakeshore Trail Gets a Facelift

7/30/2022

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​The National Park Service is completing a two-year facelift of the Lakeshore Trail this summer that hikers will find more than cosmetic.  The trail improvements will protect natural resources, improve public safety and enhance visitor experience throughout the year.
Person walking across one of the wooden bridges on the trail
One of the new bridges crossing a ravine. Click image to enlarge.
​The mostly coastal, linear trail begins at Meyers Beach 4.5 miles east of Cornucopia, and traverses 6.2 miles easterly through forests upon the headlands above Lake Superior’s famous sea caves in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Offering views of the islands and the dramatic sandstone cliffs, it is the area’s most popular trail and usage has increased dramatically in recent years.
​Hikers will readily see many of the improvements. About 800 feet of new boardwalks will cover wet, muddy areas and will discourage the continuation of informal, social trails. Four new bridges spanning steep ravines, including two that are nearly 50 feet long, will replace those in poor condition and make walking easier and safer. Three beautiful, hand-crafted cedar benches will offer a respite for weary feet while five small waysides will be created for future informational and signage kiosks. And three overlooks will offer travelers great Lake Superior and island views, safely from atop the cliffs.
Click images for full-screen slideshow.
Erosion and trail damage from the old trail location
Thanks to the new trail, these impacts from past use will be able to heal.
Boardwalk through the forest
New boardwalks reduce impacts and make travel across the wet areas enjoyable.
Map from Cornucopia to Meyers Beach.
Map from Cornucopia to Meyers Beach.
While use is limited to foot traffic only, for those who are interested in backpacking and overnight use, two new campsites will be added mid-trail, to augment the single site that now exists at the far end of the trail. 

​Some trail work will be less apparent. The trail will be rerouted in one area to prevent soil compaction around the state endangered mountain cranberry that grows here, and new water bars along the trail in spots will prevent future erosional problems. 
Click images for full-screen slideshow.
Looking across Lake Superior to an island
Several of the Apostle Islands can be seen in the distance.
View across blue water with sandstone cliffs topped by a green forest
Views of majestic cliffs along the way.
View across water with caves carved into Sandstone.
The hiker can experience fantastic views into sea caves from the trail.
View of Lake Superior through a crevasse between two sandstone cliffs
The trail gives safe access to peek through a spectacular crevasse in the cliffs.
These additions will make a great trail experience even better. Late afternoon and evening are particularly good times to enjoy the lake scenery as the western sun lights up the cliffs as the waters shimmer below. Whether you’ve hiked this trail many times, or this will be your first, you will find the walk a delight as the mix of clouds, waters and light are always creating a new  and changing palette of colors, textures and scenes to enjoy. 

For more information on the trail and current conditions, visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore website.
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It's Time to Celebrate!

6/28/2022

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​Thanks to many donations, funding from the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program, and the hard work of the City staff, the renovation of the Waterfront Walk through Memorial Park is complete!
​The awkward slope by the gazebo has been nicely recontoured, the hillside stabilized with rock, new sidewalk has been added on the south end along First Street, and the entire path has been leveled and paved to a four-foot width. This project is also accompanied by three new lovely memorial benches in Jake's Triangle Park on the south side of the Bayfield on the Lake Condominiums.
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Waterfront Walk from Jake's Triangle Park looking toward the City Dock.
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Waterfront Walk looking south from gazebo.
​Now all we need is for the grass seed to take root along the walkway, so cross your fingers that we have just the right amount of rain. We plan to coordinate with the City Plan Commission’s wayfinding project to add wayfinding signs for this walkway when the time is ripe.
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Waterfront Walk looking north by gazebo.
On behalf of the City of Bayfield Parks and Recreation Committee, please accept our heartfelt appreciation for helping to make this happen! Along with the Harbor improvements, this is something we can all be proud of.

THANK YOU!!!
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West Rim Trail Maintenance & Improvements!

6/28/2022

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Bill Bland standing on trail in green forest
Volunteers!
Visitors to the Big Ravine West Rim Trail should enjoy a more comfortable walk following recent maintenance work by Bayfield Area Trails volunteers. Guided by crew leader Bill Bland, volunteers worked on Friday and Saturday, June 24 and 25, removing tripping hazards like rocks and roots, filling in dips with dirt, creating rock steps, and leveling the trail, in three different areas.
​Bill Bland said that when he moved to the area six years ago, the Big Ravine West Rim Trail was, he thought, the best, closest trail to town—and, for that reason, got the most use. “But over time,” Bill said, “because of heavy usage, the trail got ratty in spots. Dirt gets kicked aside, and stones and roots emerge. A little effort toward trail maintenance can make a big difference.”
​As Bill spoke, visitors from Atlanta and Florida proved his point about trail usage. “We just wanted to get out of town,” one woman said. “We’ve been to Madeline Island, took the Apostle Island cruise —and then we found this trail and we liked it because it’s right here by Bayfield.” 
The women were interested to learn that everyone working on the trail was a volunteer. Kate Kitchell, BATs Committee Chair, pointed out that aside from a small project on the Gil Larsen Trail last summer, this was the first BATs project led and undertaken solely by volunteers. “It’s great! That’s the way it should be!” Kate said.
Two women standing on a trail in the forest.
Visitors from Atlanta and Florida.
​BATs volunteers who worked on West Rim Trail included Jackson Beckman, Bill Bland, Mark Filonowich, Neil Howk, John Ipsen, Kate Kitchell, Gene Lemmenes, Ted May, Leo Stern, Cyndi Taylor, and Kris Wegerson.
​What’s the next opportunity to volunteer with Bayfield Area Trails? The BATs Trails Subcommittee will be looking for help on the Jerry Jolly Trails’ Overlook Loop during the week of July 24-30. Under the leadership of Mike Kinnee and Genevieve Johnson, the work will consist of clearing encroaching vegetation and re-establishing the trail between the Pikes Creek bridge and the Overlook. The crew will also install about 30 feet of boardwalk and a small wooden footbridge on the trail along Pikes Creek. Learn more about signing up to receive BATs updates, and volunteer, by clicking here.

​The more volunteers, the merrier!
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Trails are Opening Up!

5/21/2022

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​On Thursday May 5th, a group of volunteers constructed short lengths of portable boardwalk to mitigate passage through wet areas on the north end of the Big Ravine’s East Rim Trail. The many hands of the following volunteers allowed the project to be completed in under two hours: Don Louis Bredle, Kurt Dicke, Mary Finn, Neil Howk, Paul & Brenda Kaese, Kate Kitchell, Tessa Levens, and Gene Lemmenes.
The group dug small channels to help drain standing water off of the trail. They also constructed a dozen sections of treated boardwalk using 8-foot lengths of 2" x 12" boards screwed to 6" x 6" blocks. The boardwalks were placed along the wettest sections of the trail and can easily be moved aside once the trail dries out. ​
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Volunteers constructed short lengths of portable boardwalk.
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The group dug small channels to help drain standing water off of the trail.
The Big Ravine’s Pine Bluff and Hemlock Heights Trails are now open. Many thanks to everyone for staying off of the trail during the ice and mud season! Your cooperation has ensured that they are in great shape for everyone to enjoy. Please use caution on the few wet sections on Pine Bluff; please stay on the middle of the trail to avoid damaging the trail shoulders.

Between May 23rd and 31st Bayfield Area Trails volunteers will be working with Will Krift on rebuilding rock steps on the Gil Larsen Trail above the waterfall as well as fine-tuning the lower section of the School Trail built last fall. 
​See you out on the trails! 
​ 
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The Big Ravine’s Pine Bluff and Hemlock Heights Trails are now open.
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