This is a backcountry trip specifically for LGBTQ+ volunteers. No previous experience is necessary.
Your crew will spend 4 days in a magical wonderland. Though several miles upstream of your work the Lewis River Trail (including Lewis River Falls) is so popular that the Forest Service recently implemented parking permits, you will work downstream where the traffic is light, the old-growth trees are huge, and the trail needs some love.
About the Area: Step into the moss-cloaked forest of the Lewis River, where giant cedars, nurse logs, ancient stumps and rushing water abound.
To hike the lower section of the Lewis River is to step into a different world, populated by fantastic patches of old-growth fir and cedar in a shadowy section of the Gifford Pinchot.
Its easily accessible location and fairly flat riverside route make it a perfect early-spring hike. Throw in a few waterfalls, wildflowers and a variety of ancient forest peculiarities — including pinesap, coralroot and gnome plant — and you have an outdoor discovery destination suitable for the whole family.
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!
Project Description:
This is a new work location for WTA and the exact priorities will be determined by a scouting trip later in the season when the snow melts. However, you can expect a variety of tasks primarily focused on treadwork, all alongside the beautiful Lewis River.
Camping and Hiking Information:
Type: Backcountry camp
Location: Bolt Camp Shelter. This is a three-sided shelter that will not have enough room for everyone to sleep in but will provide covered space in case of rain.
Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain
Hike to camp: 2.7 miles with 161 feet of elevation gain at a moderate pace while carrying WTA-provided tools and your backpack with camping and personal gear.
Expected daily hike to project: 1-2 miles roundtrip with 200 feet of gain, at a moderate pace.
Schedule:
Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp
Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. Make a lunch and pack up camp before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Reach camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Set up, prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew.
Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.
Planning Information: Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!
What it Takes to Do This Work Party
A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project
Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail
Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain
Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles
Day work party experience recommended
Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests
Minimum age: 18
What to Bring -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 if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. 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.
In addition to items listed above, bring the following backpacking gear:
WTA hard hat
Work gloves
Backpack to carry all of your gear
Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad
Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip
At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water
Rain jacket and rain pants
Extra warm clothing
Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals
Sun and bug protection
Headlamp and extra batteries
Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries
First aid kit
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. 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.
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
REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT and learn about other opportunities at WTA.org