A UNIQUE HIKE
In England we did many great hikes, one that stands out in my mind was through the sculpture of the Grizedale National Forest. Enroute we were told, “In the 10th century peaceful Vikings came to this area. Many married the villagers. Monks from 1150-1539 dominated this area. In 1539 Henry VIII destroyed the monastery and sold the property to landowners.”
Scotch pine is the only native coniferous tree in the area and the English oak the only native deciduous tree. In the 17th century the larch tree was introduced for its aroma and medicinal uses.
Our guide continued, “In 1936 one could purchase parcels of 1500-2000 acres. During World War II women tended the farms when the men went off to war. The Forest Commission was formed after the war ended. Soon after, lodgepole pines were planted on the high area.
“In 1960 English representatives went to the United States to study the park system and brought back many ideas to England. Grizedale was one of the first forests in England opened to the public. In the mid 1970s sculptures were allowed and encouraged. They can be made of wood, stone, or metal. There even is a special sculpture map of the park.”
The hike started out with us climbing 500 feet straight up a rocky eroded path, but the view when one reached the top was magnificent! We viewed many sculptures hiking that day. Some were really neat, some conventional, and some pretty weird. It made the hike interesting—sort of like a treasure hunt. It was a fun afternoon.
In England people live and farm in the parks. While hiking, during our visit, we opened many a gate to continue on our way.
During a lecture we learned that today there are many pressures on the National Parks. One of the most urgent and biggest problems is the impact of tourism. The area needs tourist income, but how to control the impact of many people using and enjoying the landscape. Then there is the need for tourist facilities and control of building and type of structures, all of which impact the growth. The need of the residents is always present. Modern farming methods and commercial forestry are also needs.
Erosion is a constant problem, often caused by people straying off paths destroying vegetation. Repair of paths is a constant man-power and financial problem. Leveling walk-ways, providing disabled access, identifying drainage problems, replanting and protecting such from sheep and deer are other problems facing the area. It might be said that the area has been loved to death. Trying to find a quiet balance is a challenge.
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