Found this on a new home site about 1 mile from me. All downhill, all about 24 inch red oak. No machine to pull it out.
blacksmith and I have rigged a cable skyline on different jobs and it works very well for dragging logs over areas, all you need is a ladder, a sling and snatch block, some cable, a good sturdy tree near your access point and a truck.
I say buck then half/quarter with a maul and carry. I do it that way all the time on roadside wood if larger sized. Its oak and knot free. Should half rather easily with a maul. Its close by too. Can you get permission and nibble away? Thats some NICE oak and worth the effort. Can you cut a couple anyhow? Some is better than none? Pic is of some fresh red oak i may go back for...20" diameter. Cut the smaller wood yesterday Ill have to cut and carry.
We just used this method two weeks ago, I should've gotten some video of it but it was kinda dark down in the woods when we did it. Next time I'll try to get some pics and a video.
That road looks real close! Buck it in place, half it if necessary and dolly it to the truck. Sure would beat running a dolly all the way from around back of some one's house like I have to do on some of my Tree Service scores. Very nice Oak also!
I would be inclined to process it in place, load in my truck or trailer and take it home. At least cut into rounds and carry home.
Do I see a dolly in your future. Cut and buck a bunch up. Then when you got a truck load ready if you don't own one, then go and just go rent one and work on using the dolly for the whole day to load the truck.
Speaking of dollies. Had the strangest idea a couple days ago. Build a tool much like the handle from a push mower. Have two spring loaded sharpened pins on the end. Center those pins in a decent round shaped round and push/pull. Instant dolly, no tires needed. A little Fred Flintstonish but with a little tinkering it may work. Should add it would keep your lawn/processing area nice and flat
I prefer barkless touring tires for a smooth quiet ride. Though in the winter bark would give better traction
do i see a little build in your future Joe? Backyard engineering at its finest! Oh and wireless remote too!