Well.....YES!
The excitement of bushwhacking a new trail MacGyver style is short lived compared to the years of enjoyment that can be experienced on a well respected trail.
The long-term effects of going off trail may not be noticeable right away, yet has a very real long-term effect that would be noticed over several years of hiking your favorite trail.
The most noticeable effect of off trail exploration is the trampling of
plants. Branches get broken, and the plants just get squished, not
good for vascular systems! Frankly it is unsightly and disrespectful
of the habitat.
However the more damaging but less noticeable effect is the compacting
of the soil. Soil is its own living habitat; it supports the plants
that grow in it. When soil is compacted it is becomes a haven for
invasive plants. Compacted soil lessens its ability to absorb and hold
water. Invasive plants, such as Scotch Broom, have an evolutionary
advantage over our native plants, they can survive in dry compacted
soil and actually thrive in that particular environment.
Next time you see an invasive group of plants play detective and
see what may have caused the take over on that area. A good example is
under electric power lines; the soil is disturbed and compacted during
construction and is now full of Scotch Broom.
So next time you have that urge to play MacGyver, think of a trail of Scotch Broom following in your wake.
Gretchen Graber
EverGreen Escape Artist / Naturalist Guide
gretchen@evergreenescapes.com