Now You Can See The Rocks Thru The Trees

Article here about the Cathedral Spires in the Black Hills.

“Custer State Park has been working to combat the death of trees from the Pine Beetle.  The removal of these trees has resulted in some huge changes in the Cathedral Spires areas.  The views are incredible.  All this change will result in changes in use from hikers and climbers. In  the bottom of all the gullies between the Spires you can walk on stumps and rounds without touching the ground (until you trip and fall in the slash).  All the user trails leading to the gullies are gone, and will need to be recreated.  This is a great chance for the coalition to create sustainable climber trails for future generations to use.  We will need to come up with a plan and gain permission from Custer State Park to clear some user trails.  We could turn this into a springtime Adopt a Trail Project with the Access Fund.  If you get a chance to get out there hiking and or climbing, think about what might make the most sense.  I will take suggestions and coordinate an effort this spring.  I also know that Custer State Park is considering doing some work on the old Cathedral Spires hiking trail, and might be looking for volunteer labor.  So contact me at the email address below if you are interested in helping.  I just wanted to make people aware of what is going on in our climbing areas.”