*This project is currently full!! If you would like to be added to the waitlist, please email [email protected].

In summer of 2025, two large trees came down over the South Loop Trail causing hikers to cut the switchback on the end of the trail. This switchback cutting will eventually lead to erosion, making trail conditions unsafe, and causing "trail creep". Bucking these trees and re-doing the tread is going to combat this negative impact on the trail. Our first two attempts to buck these trees last year were thwarted by unlucky weather and icy conditions. This year, we're going to make sure those trees are dealt with!

Trail maintenance is essential for keeping our Wilderness areas open, safe, and enjoyable for all, while also protecting the natural ecosystems from unnecessary damage. Trail work is very important work and is highly rewarding! By maintaining existing trails there is less overall damage to our Wilderness areas and re-building damaged trails creates a safe and durable surface (a key principle of Leave No Trace) for trail users to experience these Wilderness Areas. This trip is not for beginners. We will be hiking three miles (with an elevation gain of 2,000 ft) to the worksite with large saws and heavy tread tools. 

Information

Difficulty level: Most challenging - See our difficulty rating scale here. Strenuous with longer hikes, off-trail hiking, sometimes with significant elevation changes. These trips are very challenging and require excellent aerobic conditioning, past experience in outdoor settings, and familiarity with backcountry hiking and/or camping. Not for beginners. We will be hiking roughly six miles in total with 2,000 feet of elevation gain while carrying heavy tools. 

When: Tuesday June 2nd, 7AM-4PM

Where: Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, South Loop Trail

What to bring: sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sun protection, a pack with the ability to carry at least three liters of water, lunch, and snacks. Check out our suggested Packing List.

What to expect: In-depth information, such as weather, trailhead, parking, and project specifics, will be sent to those who RSVP about 1 week before the project. Day of: Friends staff members will provide any tool training necessary for the project. We will meet in the morning for a safety/stretch circle and to talk about the project, and then we will hike to the project site and begin working, stopping for lunch and snack breaks as necessary. 

Are Dogs Allowed? Due to the dangerous nature of trail maintenance, dogs are not allowed on this project. 

What we need from you: If you're interested in joining us for this project, you must RSVP. Friends of Nevada Wilderness and our partners put a great deal of time and resources into organizing volunteer projects. When you RSVP you are committing to join us on this project. We understand circumstances may arise where you need to cancel. If you’re no longer able to attend, please cancel your RSVP as soon as possible so another volunteer can join the project.

Want to bring a friend? Please do!! All participants must RSVP individually (even partners, spouses, children, etc.). Send them the link for the event and make lasting memories 

We can't wait to see you on the trail!

For more information on volunteering with Friends of Nevada Wilderness, check out our volunteer information page here!