National Park Service

Park Superintendent, Reed E. Detring

Last year we celebrated the completion and approval of the park's first General Management Plan. Based on the direction provided by that document, the park can now be managed in such a way as to provide for the highest degree of natural and cultural resource protection while assuring the development of recreational opportunities which will benefit park visitors, neighbors and partners.

We now begin the exciting and sometimes challenging task of implementing the changes outlined in the General Management Plan. This spring we have begun the implementation of the designated trail system as defined in the General Management Plan. While full implementation will take some time, the final result will be an expanded, well defined and more integrated network of trails in Big South Fork.

As you enjoy the vast array of trails in Big South Fork, you will soon notice that we have begun to institute a new system of trail signing and blazing which will clearly define those types of trail use allowed on any of the designated trails within the park.

With well over 300 miles of trails to sign and blaze, however, this will be a very time consuming task for park staff to complete. The trail blazing and signing project, as well as general trail maintenance, does provide an excellent opportunity for individuals and organized groups to lend their assistance through our Volunteer in Parks program. If you are interested, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.

The staff of Big South Fork NRRA remains committed to the goals of resource protection and quality visitor service. Together with our many park partners and neighbors we will be striving to find realistic, innovative approaches to solving the challenges we face and meeting the goals we have set.

You are our valued guest, so please let us know if you have concerns or comments. We hope that you will explore the park, enjoy the area, have fun, and return often.

Reed E. Detring, Superintendent