In 2018, Wild Montana’s Madison-Gallatin Chapter launched a grassroots stewardship initiative. Chapter members and local trail-loving allies teamed up to help the U.S. Forest Service address trail maintenance needs in the Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area and the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.
This community of volunteers understands trails are integral to our way of life. Whether trails are at risk of being loved to death (Lava Lake/Beehive Basin) or falling off the map due to backlogged maintenance (Cliff Creek), we can all pitch in to make a difference. Not only is this work rewarding, but it is also a ton of fun. The Adopt-A-Trail Crew is filled with passionate, kind-hearted people who make for great company on the trail. They work to help preserve access to some of Montana’s most beautiful landscapes.
Saturday, June 3: National Trails Day: Mission Creek Trail Maintenance
Southeast Livingston | Moderate
Saturday, June 10: Mission Creek Trail Maintenance
Southeast Livingston | Moderate
Saturday, September 9: Lava Lake Trail Maintenance
Gallatin Gateway | Moderate
Saturday, September 16: Lava Lake Trail Maintenance
Gallatin Gateway | Moderate
Interested in joining the Adopt-A-Trail Crew? Trips are free to join. Here’s how to get involved:
Contact the Adopt-A-Trail Crew coordinators for Madison-Gallatin Chapter to let them know you are interested. Do not show up to the trailhead unannounced – all volunteers must be cleared ahead of time. Email the coordinating team at MGAdoptatrail@gmail.com
Be honest about your ability level. Trail work rookies are welcome, but know the work is physically demanding. Consult with the Adopt-A-Trail Crew coordinator to make sure you will be a good fit for a project.
If you plan to join a project, follow through on your commitment.
If something comes up and you can no longer join, please give your trail captain plenty of notice. Crew sizes are limited so we often have waiting lists for projects.
Arrive prepared. See the list below.
Trail captains will bring tools and hard hats for all volunteers. It is up to you to bring:
A sturdy daypack. Make sure it is suitable for hiking and can hold what you need a day of work.
Work gloves and safety glasses. Prescription glasses and sunglasses suffice.
Plenty of drinking water for the day. For a full day on the trail, you will want 4 liters of water.
Lunch and snacks. You’re going to get hungry out there.
Personal first aid kit. In case you find yourself in need of a bandaid or some Advil.
Rain gear and plenty of warm layers. Don’t leave yourself unprepared for the elements.
Personal items. Chapstick, sunscreen, tissues, bandanna, etc., and any medications you might need.
Your trail captain will provide you with meeting time and location, the day’s schedule, project work, and driving directions as the project nears.
