thanks again everyone, and special thanks to those who contributed their experiences with trails of this sort and their many issues. I also prefer the off trail experience, but trails such as these get more people outdoors to experience and respect natural resources, they spur local economies and business does "pop up" to take advantage of the access provided by the trail. in a capital city like Concord, a trail like this does reduce vehicle trips and congestion because it does link residential and business areas with stores, lunch spots etc.