I'm interested in building a few simple plank bridges-to span some steep V-shaped stream crossings that are a few feet wide and to level out the trail a bit. I'm not sure if there is another name for these than "plank bridge," but I'm talking really simple: a couple of 8-foot 2"x12" pressure-treated planks attached by some cross-braces beneath. That's it.
Building the plank bridges is pretty straightforward. What I'm wondering about is the best way to secure them (so they don't flop around)? They'd be fairly heavy so I'm wondering if they'd stay in place fine under their own weight? Alternately, is there any safe, reliable method for anchoring both ends to the ground?
If there was enough rock, I'd consider just building a higher turnpike across the stream by throwing more rock directly into the stream to ride over. But the plank bridge seems like a better solution.
ALSO: the same trail has several places where there is a short, very steep climb (with little room to build any momentum because you're coming out of a sharp corner) and a BIG root right at the crest of the climb (the classic "flowbusting" scenario). By big I mean 6-8" high. What's the best way to get rid of this obstacle? (Improve flow!) I'm guessing it would be to just build a short ramp with rock on the downhill side...but checking to see if anyone has other options?
Thanks!
Scott
Building the plank bridges is pretty straightforward. What I'm wondering about is the best way to secure them (so they don't flop around)? They'd be fairly heavy so I'm wondering if they'd stay in place fine under their own weight? Alternately, is there any safe, reliable method for anchoring both ends to the ground?
If there was enough rock, I'd consider just building a higher turnpike across the stream by throwing more rock directly into the stream to ride over. But the plank bridge seems like a better solution.
ALSO: the same trail has several places where there is a short, very steep climb (with little room to build any momentum because you're coming out of a sharp corner) and a BIG root right at the crest of the climb (the classic "flowbusting" scenario). By big I mean 6-8" high. What's the best way to get rid of this obstacle? (Improve flow!) I'm guessing it would be to just build a short ramp with rock on the downhill side...but checking to see if anyone has other options?
Thanks!
Scott