Hiking/ footpath entrances with no tangible landmarks of any sort.
Spookieghostt-PGO
Posts: 6 ✭✭
I have been running across the above very frequently. I have been rejecting these based on the submission photos being of the literal dirt/ open space surrounding a trailhead (and by trailhead, I mean the start of a dirt path). These submissions do not contain trail markers, informational signs, rock formations, fences, or anything visually unique or tangible. I do admit that these areas are excellent for outdoor adventure; they encourage walking and are lovely places to meet up with friends and strangers alike; however, the "physical, tangible, and identifiable place or object, or object that placemarks an area" aspect does not exist in any way on these submissions at all.
I am doubting myself because I continue seeing so many of these submissions (of which I know that quantity means nothing). Admittedly, I am very new to reviewing and would love to keep my input accurate at all costs, so please do lend me a hand.
Should trailheads with no signage or other standout objects be accepted?
Comments
This is probably the right thing to do, though I can't say without having seen the reviews. Be sure to study the Google map. Look at the satellite view to get a feel for the area. Change to street view if you can to pretend like you're walking there. You have to be careful of how old those views are, but not everything changes all the time.
If you see the dirt path through those means, determine if you'd have a way to identify that spot to have other people meet you there. Or would they drive/walk right by it and not realize that it was a place to meet up/walk? That's not official criteria, but it's logical way to process all of this.
In my opinion if it is a trail maker or feature on the trail (Rocks, stile, bridge) its can be a nomination.
A random point on a trail is not eligible in my opinion.
in USA, I would reject them as "natural feature". It usually needs to be in a public park (highlighted in green on Google map) and some kind of object or trail sign that would be typical in a park like a scenic view bench. It doesn't matter if it's a dirt trail or concrete sidewalk.