Question on trail surfaces
Posted: Sat Aug 11, 2018 10:25 pm
We have a question on trail surfaces. One person in our party has a tough time walking on rock-strewn surfaces. The combination of eyesight issues at ground distance, loose ankles and a short stride make it hard for the person to walk on rocky trails. For example, we tried climbing Cascade (near L. Placid) and the going was tough and slow. We started kinda late but did not summit. This is rated an easy peak, but my friend (a 46er) says that was typical for a ‘Daks peak trail.
Our hiker does fine on reasonably flat surfaces, has good endurance, keeps in good shape and is a strong climber. Using low light walking shoes. I have my doubts that high boots will help; I don’t put much faith in boots with “ankle support” and the person’s ankles are really floppy.
We are spending a week in the North-South Lake area in October and would like to summit a peak or loop the scenic trails in the area.
So two questions:
1. Do trails in the Catskills often have a layer of fist-sized rocks on the surface?
2. Can anyone recommend a trail or trails with great views and a basically flat surface?
We don’t need a groomed trail. Some rock or tree root is fine.
Advice please?
Dale
Our hiker does fine on reasonably flat surfaces, has good endurance, keeps in good shape and is a strong climber. Using low light walking shoes. I have my doubts that high boots will help; I don’t put much faith in boots with “ankle support” and the person’s ankles are really floppy.
We are spending a week in the North-South Lake area in October and would like to summit a peak or loop the scenic trails in the area.
So two questions:
1. Do trails in the Catskills often have a layer of fist-sized rocks on the surface?
2. Can anyone recommend a trail or trails with great views and a basically flat surface?
We don’t need a groomed trail. Some rock or tree root is fine.
Advice please?
Dale