Get a view of the Columbia River Gorge while getting this lovely trail ready for winter. You will hike a fair amount while clearing, improving, and in some cases installing drainage.
PLEASE NOTE: There is POISON OAK in this area. This is the best season to be working in it, but if you are sensitive to poison oak, this may not be the work party for you.
About the Area: Currently owned and managed by the Friends of the Columbia Gorge Land Trust, this property was once a homestead that had, you guessed it, a cherry orchard. Largely restored to its natural state, it is an outstanding example of native white oak woodland perched on steep rocky bluffs overlooking the Columbia with views far to the east and downriver towards the Gorge. Washington Trails Association has been instrumental in building a new series of loop trails at the Lyle Cherry Orchard.
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.
Project Description: You will NOT meet at the official trailhead, but at the top of the trail network, then caravan in through a gate to park. Then you will be focused on making this trail winter-ready. The day will involve using digging tools to clean out drainage structures that already exist, enhance some that are too small, and in very few cases create new drains. There will be up to 3 miles of hiking as you go from one work place to the next.
Hiking Information: In total we'll hike about 3 miles round trip. The hike in, a little more than 1 mile, has about 700 feet of elevation gain.
Camping Information: There is no official WTA campout, but if you are coming from far away and want to camp before or after, there are a few places in the area.
Location: Turkey Hole or Icehouse Campground to name a few
Type: Tent or vehicle camping
Facilities: Vault toilet
Water: N/A
Pass: Discovery Pass for Turkey Hole. No pass required for Icehouse. Both are first come, first serve.
Schedule:
8:30 AM: Be ready to answer health screening questions and meet the crew!
8:35 AM: Gather for a physically distant safety briefing, then hike 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: Enjoy refreshments with the crew at the trailhead before heading on your merry way.
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:
A cloth face covering is optional but recommended hand sanitizer
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.
Register HERE
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