Bog bridging / puncheon
Overview
Bog bridging or puncheon is low, often timber-based walkway construction installed across wet or sensitive ground to provide a more stable walking surface.
Key points
- Commonly used in wetland areas, muddy sections, or fragile soils.
- Usually built from planks, logs, or other materials supported above saturated ground.
- Aims to protect both trail users and underlying ecosystems from excessive impact.
Details
In many hiking areas, bog bridging or puncheon structures are installed where the ground is persistently wet or particularly vulnerable to repeated foot traffic. These low walkways can be simple log rounds, paired planks, or more elaborate assemblies tailored to local conditions. They allow hikers to cross without sinking deeply into mud or disturbing fragile vegetation such as mosses and wetland plants. While these structures improve footing and help define the path, they can still be slippery when wet or icy, and their presence does not eliminate all exposure to water or mud along a route.
Related topics
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.