Giving Back to the Trails We Run On

Clear small obstacles Move sticks, rocks, or light debris off the trail so the next runner, biker, or hiker has a smoother pass. Pack it out Bring a small baggie to collect trash, energy gel wrappers, cans, or anything else that doesn't belong. Trim light brush Carry lightweight clippers to cut back encroaching branches or thorny vines from the tread. Report big issues If you encounter serious erosion, washouts, or heavy deadfall, log the location on an app (like Gaia or Strava) and report it to your local trail org when you're back. Carry a compact saw Jason, Kaduka's co-founder, often carries a compact folding handsaw on his runs. "I can strap it to my running pack or just stuff it in my quiver when I don't take my poles. It lets me cut through deadfall blocking trails on the spot, clearing the path for everyone, and has the added bonus that I don't have to jump these trees on my way back down!" This is a practice that can keep an otherwise remote path open. Here's the saw he uses if you want to add one to your kit: