Spots are limited and demand for projects is high. Thanks in advance for your patience and understanding as we process volunteer registrations. Before registering, please read this important information about physical requirements, project deposits, cancellations, and waitlists →
This will be a backcountry project where we spend four days working and camping along the majestic Missouri River. We will be working to maintain the trails and stabilize the switchbacks that take you up the Mann Gulch Trail #258 to the towering cliffs that shoot out of the Missouri River. We will also work on clearing any down trees on the Meriwether Canyon Trail #253. This will require hiking with hand tools, handsaws, and all the water for a long day’s work. A boat ride is provided in order to cross the river and access the campsite. This will be Wild Montana’s first volunteer trail project in this landscape. We’re excited to pay tribute to this historic area while also helping maintain the trails.
The Mann Gulch Trail has existed since 1942, however, the trail was not officially recognized by the Forest Service until 1964 when it became part of the newly designated Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. This trail is most famously known for the wildland firefight of August 1949 when 13 young firefighters lost their lives in a tragic blaze. This fire changed the tactics of wildland firefighting and ultimately helped improve the practices of firefighters today. The Mann Gulch Trail continues to connect the past with present hikers and trail users. All who hike this trail are connected to the young men who fought for this valley.
The Mann Gulch Overlook Trail #258 is popular among locals and tourists, offering expansive views of the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness and the Missouri River. The trail begins with several switchbacks climbing up to an overlook of Mann Gulch. The switchbacks rest on loose, rocky soils that have deteriorated over time and need re-established. There are also many fist-sized rocks on the trail that need to be removed in order to help trail users climb safely along the route.
Gates of the Mountain Boat Club, Monday June 24 at 10:00 am
Directions from Helena:
On Monday, June 24, we will meet at the Gates of the Mountains Boat Club at 10:00 am. Volunteers should come having eaten breakfast and packed a lunch for the day. We will be shuttled to our campground near the Meriwether pavillion via boat, where we will set up our backcountry camp for the week. Volunteers are encouraged to pack efficiently as though they would on any other backcountry project – space on the boat is limited. We will establish a backcountry communal kitchen space and make our camp bear safe. There will be a vault toilet on site. We ask that volunteers help with communal camp setup before personal gear comes out. Leave No Trace and Bear Safety practices will be strictly followed throughout the week.
This project will be very strenuous. Although we will be shuttled by boat to our campsite, volunteers are expected to hike from camp to the worksite each day. We will carry trail tools as well as personal gear each day. We will primarily be focused on trail maintenance and clearing which requires digging, shoveling, moving rocks, sawing logs, and clearing debris from the trail. The daily hike will range from 6 – 8 miles per day, depending on where the work begins. There is very little shade along this route and at the worksite. Be prepared for hot weather and carrying extra water.
*Note: Project work is subject to change. Our tasks may become easier or more challenging. Your flexibility in the field is appreciated as we adapt to changing conditions.
Wild Montana will provide all food and cooking equipment. However, you will need to bring your own mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, cutlery) and enough water bottles to carry four liters of water. Our first group meal will be dinner provided Monday night, so please plan on having eaten breakfast and packing a lunch on Monday. Volunteers are expected to help with food preparation and clean up on a rotating basis, but your crew leader will handle primary kitchen responsibilities.
Spots are limited and demand for projects is high. Thanks in advance for your patience and understanding as we process volunteer registrations. Before registering, please read this important information about physical requirements, project deposits, cancellations, and waitlists →
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