Good idea to set on the log or on the ground at the end where they step-down? I see the tracks on snow covered logs all the time. Is this a wasted set? Are there better places to set?

It would be a lot easier to set the the approaches on either end. And It would be a good idea to gang set either end. 2 or 3 sets would work.

Setting on the log will get less misses. Setting the ground at the ends is a bit more random if no defined trail

One season I snared log crossings when ever I found them. I took over 100 coon on them. Plus several red fox, coyotes and a couple cats Yep, I like log crossings!!!!

Well I'm not sure setting foot holds on a log Is a good Idea. Several good dirt holes or some flat sets will take a lot of fur. No need for a trail to cash In on a bunch of fur. But of course If your targeting fox or coyotes that are using that log a CR set In the trail or even in a single set of tracks going to that log will be a better choice then actually setting on the log. And Of course In WI If your using CRs they need to be used In a non lethal way so hanging them on a log Is going to get you busted.

In WI if your hanging CRs you have to be 12" off the hard surface with the bottom of the CR. I think with that set up your going to miss most coon crossing the log.. But In the dead of winter most coon are going to be holed up so that problem goes away.

But a 160 could be set on the log and that would take any coon mink or fisher or marten. But that becomes a problem if you don't have a fisher tag.
I was never very keen on seeing a coon or coyote for that matter swinging by It's neck or It's foot on a log crossing set.

JC Conner shows blind sets on a log in one of his videos. Cool looking set.

I like the log crossing..but there the best for possum...

I believe he is talking about random logs on the ground and Not crossing logs.

Fallen trees (log) are common in my neck of the woods.
Not a waste of time setting on tracks.
Certainly not a wasted set, but an overlooked set for woods trapping.

Better places to set? In wooded area (my area), Bobcat, Fisher, Coyote, Reds, Greys often hop onto a log to have a good looksee around.
I setup logs on the ground at both ends. Usually 2 sets on each end.
Note: Not all downed logs are equal. Snow reveals logs that are preferred for travel.

Below picture, a Grey & Bobcat passed through, atop this Log. 2-day old snow. Let's set some traps here!