personally - I'm a dig-them-up kinda person. But - admittedly, I'm also not clearing a trail through 4 acres (just clearing some underbrush to plant DESIRABLE plants in, instead of more icky invasive honeysuckle).
If you aren't up to digging them up (its a great workout) - cutting them and spraying with a heavy duty brush killer is probably the best way to go. If you don't feel safe with a machete (they can be intimidating) - a good pair of larger jawed pruners is the way to go. I have a racheting pair with 3' handles - will probably handle a 2"+ diameter branch/trunk.
Great news on the forest -- I'm sure your pathway will be delightful once you get it cleared!