Trail post on Mount Diablo.
Correction (Aug. 29, 2012): the correct date for this event is Wed., Sep. 12.
Wednesday, September 12, 7 pm, Clayton Community Library (Hoyer Hall), 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton.
Have you ever wondered what goes into the creation of a trail map? Here’s your chance to find out. A new edition of the Mount Diablo Trail Map has just been completed, and Mike Woodring from the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA) will join us to describe the process, challenges, and rewards involed in the making of this detailed topographic trail map of Mount Diablo State Park.
MDIA has been creating trail maps of Mount Diablo since the early 1980s. Mike will explain how mapping has evolved, from the mileage-wheel days and hand-drawn first edition to the GPS and Universal Transverse Mercator grids of the latest edition.
Mike, who also spearheads the Mount Diablo trail-signage project, will describe the challenges of erecting and maintaining almost 400 trail posts and signs in the state park. From interesting animal/visitor encounters to hidden treasures in the Park, Mike has seen it all.
In mapping and signing Diablo, Mike has hiked every mile of marked trail on the mountain and has trod trails not shown on any map. He will share anecdotes and stories of his favorite places on the mountain and recommend interesting hikes.
Mount Diablo trail-signage crew.
Mike is a retired electrical engineer with many interests, including underwater photography, growing carnivorous plants, and designing and flying model airplanes. Mike currently serves as a boardmember for MDIA and is in charge of creating the new seventh-edition map, trail signage, and geocaching activities within the park.
Everyone is welcome and no reservations are necessary. If you have questions, contact Ken Lavin at ken_lavin@hotmail.com or (925)852-8778.
