By Cigar Rock viewpoint, there is a stone staircase that WTA has been tasked with rebuilding.
Over three work parties (maybe more), you will remove the old staircase, split and haul rocks, and rebuild the staircase in a slightly different location (and also slightly larger). This is a strenuous work party; consider your physical ability to move and safely work with heavy rocks.
About the Area: The Cape Horn Trail makes a 7 mile loop hike that showcases the Gorge's incredible scenery. Originally pioneered by hiking enthusiasts, the trail was not sanctioned by the Forest Service until 2010. WTA has worked closely with the Cape Horn Conservancy and the Forest Service to upgrade the trail to modern standards and perform annual maintenance.
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.
Project Description: From the Cape Horn trailhead, you will consolidate into fewer vehicles and carpool to park at a closer access. For this work party, we will be focused on removing the existing staircase, saving the rocks, splitting a few other rocks near the work site into manageable chunks (with Forest Service support), and staging other rocks and fill for the folks on the next work parties to use. You should be ready to move heavy objects with rock bars or rock nets, carry buckets of rocks, and travel over uneven terrain.
Hiking Information: The hike in is 0.7 miles on a rocky, narrow trail. There are a couple places with very steep drop-offs straight down to the Columbia River!
Schedule:
8:30 AM: Be ready to sign in and meet the crew, rain or shine. Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site
Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day
12:00 PM: Lunch
After: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work
3:30 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.
Planning Information: Get ready for a great day outside! What it Takes to Do This Work Party
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 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:
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
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
More Information:
For more information and to register, click HERE
WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367