I've used my tech salary to buy some formerly clear-cut acreage near National Forests with a plan to rehabilitate and protect the forest there. One of the first things I want to do is set up some trails for hiking to the ridge and creek on the property. Thanks for sharing this, super interesting to read!
Do you plan to remove invasive weeds and plant native wildflowers/trees?
I did this to cleared land outside of Spokane and it was immensely rewarding. What I learned in the process is that selecting the correct seed/seedlings is very important. Attempt to find a resource that has locally native seeds. The same species of plant from two states over will not have the same genetic makeup ( think disease resistants, etc ) as the local varieties and can potentially impair the locals when they cross pollinate.
There are groups and individuals that specialize in gathering wild native seeds for this type of activity. They are extremely passionate and helpful.