Join the 2026 Wilderness Trail Scout Program!
2025 Trail Scout in Jarbidge Wilderness
Every Summer, FNW Wilderness Trail Crews and volunteers maintain trails across the Wilderness Areas of Nevada. In order for our crews to stay informed on the condition of trails across the state, they rely on early season scouting performed by our staff, information from the land management agencies, or even from the general public. However, time and resources to scout trails are limited and without proper scouting our information is often outdated or simply incorrect.
The Wilderness Trail Scout Program is an opportunity for volunteers to help the FNW Trails Program obtain up-to-date information about the condition of trails throughout the state. This information is used by FNW and the Forest Service to make decisions about where to focus our trail maintenance efforts. Wilderness Trail Scout Volunteers will be scouting trails independently. Depending on their skills and comfort level, volunteers may be hiking/ horseback riding off-trail, over long distances and/or on challenging terrain. They may also drive on rough roads to access the trails.
Trails to scout for the 2026 season will be located in Arc Dome, Ruby Mountains, Table Mountain, Alta Toquima, Mt. Charleston, East Humboldts, Jarbidge, Mt. Rose, and High Schells Wilderness Areas. Difficulties will range from Challenging to Most Challenging based on the trail length and predicted condition of the trail. Based on the anticipated road conditions, volunteers will be assigned a trail depending on their vehicle capabilities.
Participating as a Wilderness Trail Scout volunteer is a great opportunity to explore new and beautiful places while making a difference for your public lands. This is a unique way to give back in a way that fits into your schedule, while undoubtedly embarking on a memorable adventure. Apply to volunteer as a Wilderness Trail Scout today and hike with a purpose this summer!
Explore the FNW Wilderness Trails Map here
Learn more about the FNW Trails Program here
Requirements to be a Wilderness Trail Scout:
- Be able to attend a virtual training on April 28, 2026 at 4:30PM OR an in-person training in Sparks on April 30, 2026 at 5:30PM.
- A smartphone compatible with the data collection application Survey123.
- A 4-wheel drive, high clearance vehicle is not required, but highly recommended. Access to some trailheads requires 4wd but others do not. You will be assigned a trail based on your vehicle capabilities.
- A Satellite Communications Device (ex: Garmin Inreach)
- Have a reliable emergency contact that will also serve as your home base coordinator while you are out scouting.
- Experience with backcountry navigation and hiking and scrambling over rugged/uneven terrain
- Experience driving rough roads, sometimes for long distances.
- Be able to be self-sufficient in the backroads and backcountry of Nevada.
- Be able to hike 10-15+ miles
For additional information visit the FAQ page
2025 Trail Scout in High Schells Wilderness
Everything you need to know before you apply:
STEP ONE: Apply to be a Wilderness Trail Scout
Apply to become a Wilderness Trail Scout by clicking the APPLY NOW link below. You will be asked a series of questions and preferences for scouting. After reviewing your application and selecting a limited number of volunteers, we will contact you with more information regarding the training.
STEP TWO: If you are selected to participate, attend the virtual or in-person Wilderness Trail Scout Training
Tuesday April 28th (VIRTUAL) Time: 4:30PM
Thursday April 30th (IN-PERSON) at the FNW office in Sparks, NV. Time: 5:30PM
During the training you will be assigned a trail(s) based on your preferences, and be trained on how to collect scouting data. You will also be required to read and sign a Volunteer Service Agreement and Risk Assessment.
STEP THREE: Get out and hike with a purpose!
You will be able to get out into Wild Nevada and scout your assigned trail(s) on your own time. Just keep in mind that your assigned trail has a deadline to complete scouting.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY NOW!
Deadline to apply is April 8th. We will let all applicants know whether they are accepted by April 17th. There are limited volunteer spots available, so we may not be able to invite everyone who applies to participate. Please don't show up for the training unless you are accepted into the program.
For more information, email the FNW trails team: [email protected]
