Get a great view of the Columbia River Gorge while spending the day at the top of the trail network!
You will use power tools to cut back long grasses that should be done with their season's growth. Hikers everywhere will thank you when they no longer get thwapped in the face walking through.
PLEASE NOTE: Though this is not a highly poison-oak-y section of Lyle Cherry Orchard, it is still possible that you will find instances of POISON OAK in this area. We try to keep you out of 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 white oak woodland perched on steep rocky bluffs overlooking the Columbia with views far to the east and downriver towards the Gorge. WTA 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: For this work party, you will be focused on using power tools to cut back tall grasses that encroach on the upper loop trail. You will meet at a locked gate, caravan in closer to the work location, and spend the day opening the trail up again.
Hiking Information: In total we'll hike about 2 miles round trip. The hike in, a little less than one mile, has about 250ft of elevation loss, which means you have to hike back up at the end of the day.
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:
8:25 AM: Be ready at the gate to caravan in (if you are late, you will likely get locked out)
8:35 AM: 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 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:
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:
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 work parties at WTA.org