Published: Aug 30, 2011
Collaborative Project Utilizes Sustainable Trail Construction Techniques, Reduces Sediment Delivery to Lake Tahoe
Tahoe Pines, California – August 30, 2011 – The California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) recently completed a new trail to the top of Eagle Rock, a popular landmark and hiking destination on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore, south of Tahoe City. The Conservancy project improves access to Eagle Rock and significantly reduces pollutants that damage the clarity of Lake Tahoe.
The Eagle Rock trail construction involved a collaborative effort between the Conservancy and the California Conservation Corps. AmeriCorps interns assisted withpost-construction refinements. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association and the U.S. Forest Service, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit provided training and field assistance.
“Once more a number of Tahoe Basin organizations came together to implement a project that has benefits for residents and visitors alike,” said Patrick Wright, Conservancy Executive Director. “The California Conservation Corps was instrumental in getting the trail built, and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association and the U.S. Forest Service were on hand to lend their expertise. The follow-up work by AmeriCorps interns made the trail even more enjoyable for hikers.
”The project was funded through $77,310 in Proposition 84 monies granted to the California Conservation Corps, and Conservancy staff time equivalent to $25,000. Severely eroded user-created trails had been the only means of accessing Eagle Rock. In many areas these trails had deepened to become gullies, trapping water and efficiently transporting fine sediment to Lake Tahoe via Blackwood Creek. Advanced erosion control techniques were employed to stabilize the erosion and disperse concentrated water flows. The new, sustainable trail is designed to maximize soil stability and user enjoyment.
The summit of Eagle Rock can now be reached in approximately 20 minutes via the new trail, which offers panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Parking is available on the south side of Eagle Rock adjacent to the new trailhead kiosk.
Camping, picnic tables, restrooms, and beach access are just minutes away at the Kaspian Campground and Day Use Area to the north, and Sugar Pine Point State Park to the south.
The Conservancy purchased Eagle Rock and the surrounding 54.5-acre parcel in 1987 to provide public access, recreation, and opportunities for restoration of environmentally sensitive lands. In the summer of 2012, the Conservancy will begin construction of theadjacent Blackwood Creek Restoration Project. The restoration project will provide stream improvements, better floodplain connectivity and improved wildlife habitat.