WANTED for Hazardous Journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful. Honor and recognition in case of success. --Ernest Shackleton.

This site is primarily intended for backpackers or campers interested in volunteering to work on backcountry projects such as new trail construction, trail relocation, erosion control, or brush trimming. There are many opportunities ranging from physically demanding trips into remote areas to a day hike with a paintbrush. By contributing your weekend or vacation time to a backcountry volunteer project you can make a solid contribution to backcountry preservation, restoration, and recreation. Backcountry volunteer opportunities include a wide variety of topics such as biological research expeditions in Central America, archaeology digs as well as trail maintenance. Work with established land use officials and organizations. Keep in mind that the people who oversee the trails need help but they also have to answer to higher ups, which includes the public, for what you do to the trail.

If you haven't done trail maintenance work join a 2 or 3 day work crew and get introduced. Some clubs have specific introductory courses in trail maintenance. Most people do not have the slightest idea of what they are in for when the flyer says be prepared for hard work under adverse conditions. The National Park Service has a detailed listing of skills required for trial maintenance workers.

CAUTIONS ON PHYSICALLY DEMANDING TRIPS AT ALTITUDE. Do not apply for these unless you are experienced in hiking at high elevations. The backcountry is not the place to get into shape; you must be physically fit before you get there.

The listings are of groups organizing backcountry volunteer trail crews. Area codes are being added rapidly, the numbers listed are subject to change as area codes change. Keep in mind that not all organizations screen applicants to match skills and experience to the work. If you have any doubts about the job, do not hesitate to ask for more details. If the advice on trip preparation seems vague or disorganized it may indicate the organizer is not familiar with trail work. Dante had imagination, but he never went on a work trip that went sour due to mismatched participants. If he had, there would have been an additional circle in Hell.

Notes on etiquette: 1) If you sign up for a trip, show up or notify the agency that you will not be there. 2) If you have a medical condition, don't lie about it. 3) Keep in mind that the group is diverse and open to anyone who is interested in trail maintenance; this includes horse riders and ATV owners.