This is a work party for those of you who don't mind a high hike-to-work ratio. You will focus only on cleaning and light repair of many footbridges on the Bells Mountain trail, which means you will hike a lot and work a little.
Please only register if you are up to a long and sometimes steep hike.
* We need Assistant Crew Leaders who are willing/able to use georeferenced maps and work potentially entirely independently from our crew leader.
About the Area: Close to several cities in Southwest Washington, the Yacolt Burn State Forest is a hiker, biker, or trail runner's dream. There are many trail options at low and mid-elevations, making it perfect for year-round adventures.
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Be prepared for a variety of projects. No experience is necessary.
Project Description: You will meet at Moulton Falls and take a short and beautiful walk over the Lewis River to get to the very beginning of the Bells Mountain Trail. From there, you will hike steeply up, stopping at all the footbridges to clean them/help prevent rot, plus do some minor repair work on some of them. You may hike up to 7+ miles, with approximately 1,200ft of elevation gain.
Hiking Information: Our hike to the project site is expected to be up to seven miles round trip with up to 1,200ft of elevation gain.
Register here: Join Work Party
Schedule
8:30 AM: Gather for introductions and safety briefing, then caravan in to the project site
Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day
12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail
Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work
3:30 PM: Discuss the day's work and enjoy refreshments at the trailhead
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.
Planning Information: Get ready for a great day outside!
No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need
Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain
Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18
What to Wear - Required:
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Work gloves
Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
Long pants
Recommended:
Sturdy work or hiking boots
Long sleeved shirt
A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.
What to Bring
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
Lunch and plenty of water
Rain jacket and pants
Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
A pack to carry your personal gear
Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
More Information
WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367
From the Hiking Guide
See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.