Garden Path Mulch

Early this spring I decided I needed to do something about the dirt path that meanders at the NW side of our garden. Before the pine trees came down, you can read about that here and here, it naturally got a layer of pine needles every year and I didn't have to worry about us tracking in mud after every rain. As you can see, we (actually myDearly Beloved) put two truck loads of pea gravel onto the path. My job was raking and leveling somewhat. In the past this path was covered with bark mulch too but it wouldn't stay in place becasue when we get heavy rain this path becomes a small creek. The pea gravel has stayed in place so I am very pleased. Another concern brought up by my friend was "can you walk on it barefoot"? I guess that all depends on how much you go barefooted in your garden. Yes, I can walk barefooted on this path.
Luna doesn't seem to mind the gravel in the path. She doesn't track in near the amount of mud as in the past. Obviously weeds pop up in the path.

They are easily removed.

Where the three paths converge from the back of the garden, from the gate and off the patio I placed a round (?) section of stepping stone.
It solves the problem of what to do where three paths meet.
We had these old timbers lying around the garden needing to be put to use. So I ran them along the edge of the path to contain the pea gravel. I think the gravel will stay in place anyway becasue this path is indented somewhat what with all the travel on it.

So what I would say is if you have a difficult path to try to keep mulched pea gravel is a good remedy. The pea gravel blends right in, stays where you put it, easy to walk on, and the best part is that it is inexpensive.