During April 2008, seven Central Texas Trail Tamers, three local volunteers and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Davis Mountain Stewardship Director worked together for four days building a new section of the Lympia Chute Trail. The Lympia Chute Trail is the main access trail to Mount Livermore (the fifth tallest mountain in Texas), which is located on TNC’s 32,000 acre Davis Mountains Preserve, about 25 miles west of Fort Davis, Texas. In total, the work crew completed approximately 600 feet of new trail through some difficult and challenging terrain. In addition, each day, the crew took a rough, 45 minute ride both to and from the trail head in a provided four wheel vehicle.
Before and after work, the crew enjoyed the relative comforts of the TNC’s Visitor Center and adjacent camping area. Meals were prepared by crew volunteers. The evening meals included lasagna, roasted duck, grilled pork chops, hamburgers and beef stew. Activities on Friday, included a hike to the back side of the preserve, a four wheel drive exploratory ride in the preserve, a tour of the McDonald Observatory, and a tour of the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens. Although the terrain was very dry, wildlife was abundant. In summary, the crew saw big horn sheep, turkey, mule deer, javelina, white tail deer, antelope, and elk.Everyone worked hard, and still found time to relax, and enjoyed the fellowship that comes from getting to know other crew members. No one got hurt and returned home safely. This was another successful work trip.
