Open letter to the individuals who were modifying the Yukon River Trail at Miles Canyon on Sunday afternoon:
As I approached the canyon, I caught a glimpse of a large splash in the water below. As I rode closer, it became clear that you had selected a large boulder to dig up from the middle of the trail. I can only assume the objective was to send it down the cliff as well, leaving a most obvious hole in this well-used and valued community trail.
Just as you then selected what would be best described as a fallen tree to use as leverage against the behemoth, I spoke up. I asked if you felt it was really necessary to erode the trail any more than it already was. You stopped your task and replied, “I suppose you’re right,” and, “Thanks - it’s probably good to have someone to keep us in check.” At that point, your party tossed the branch down the cliffside and we both went on our separate ways amicably.
There was no debate nor slander during our brief exchange and it actually felt quite polite and respectful.
No doubt we could both agree the situation could have been handled quite differently on both our parts. I’m writing this letter to thank you for both recognizing and ceasing your actions. I’m also writing to perhaps better express my inner hope it wasn’t just a show and that the next time I, or anyone else visits Miles Canyon (or any other trail for that matter), that it’s not been neglectfully modeled after swiss cheese.
Alex Macdonald
Whitehorse