Banadad Trail work day and annual meeting planned for Oct. 26

The Banadad Trail Association needs help getting the Banadad Ski Trail ready for winter, and this year’s work day and annual meeting is set for Oct. 26.

First, the rocks and small sticks left by the bulldozer on the new rerouted trail section starting at the western trailhead will be cleared. Since this section should not take too long, helpers will enter the BWCA, cutting as much brush and stubble as time allows. It is also hoped that a kiosk donated by the Gunflint District-USFS at the new western trailheads parking area will be installed.

Ted Young, Banadad maintenance coordinator, said, “Seven miles of the trail’s eastern end, outside the BWCA, was mowed by volunteers manning a tracked ASV with a brushhog and a hand brush cutter a month ago. That end of trail system is now almost completed. What trail work remaining is mostly within the BWCA where we cannot use any power equipment. Believe me, it will take a lot of volunteers working with hand tools to get the remaining BWCA portion of the trail ready for skiing. Please join us—we really need your help!”

Volunteers meet for the Trail Work Day at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Poplar Creek Guesthouse B&B, 11 Poplar Creek Drive (just off the Lima Grade), Gunflint Trail. Hand tools and lunches will be provided to all volunteers. Wear sturdy clothing and boots. After the work session volunteers are invited to return to the Poplar Creek Guesthouse to clean up and attend a social hour.

Then everyone is invited to the Banadad Trail Association’s fourth annual meeting followed by a potluck dinner, starting at 6 p.m. at the Schaap Community Center – Gunflint Fire Hall #1 – on Gunflint Trail next to Lima Grade. Bring a dish to pass.

For more information on the Trail Work Day and/or the Banadad Trail Association’s annual meeting and potluck dinner, call (218) 388-4487.