Trail Stewards Program

Our Trail Stewards Program was created to solve a persistent problem:

Problem: Lacking skilled volunteers who can work independently without paid staff overseeing them. Thus reducing the capacity of the WRTC because the WRTC can only hold a certain number of trail events and manage a smaller number of volunteers at these events.

Solution: Build an educated and trained volunteer base in our community.

Thus in 2021 the "Trail Stewards Program" was born. The initial trainings were some of the first steps to provide “Trail Bosses” (the title we are giving volunteers who participate in the program) with the skills and knowledge to safely and effectively perform trail work and lead other volunteers without direct supervision from WRTC staff. 

In 2022 we worked on establishing the Trail Stewards Program guidelines and systems, as well as refining our training program to align with our partners and national standards for volunteer trail stewards. 

We also developed skill development curriculum task books that cover all major work areas needed to properly identify trail condition concerns, safely organize and lead small work teams, and perform necessary trail maintenance activities. Trail Bosses/Assistant Trail Bosses will now have opportunities to assume more leadership and responsibility as they successfully complete task books, in addition to opportunities for involvement in more complex, technical trail projects the WRTC is involved in. 

As we continue to formalize and expand the Trail Stewards Program, we are able to continue to grow our Volunteer Program, which has a direct impact on the quality of trail resources and recreational opportunities on our public lands.

Trail Boss Application

Thank you for your interest in our Trail Stewards Program and in becoming a Trail Boss. We do not expect applicants to be trail experts. We are looking for individuals who have an appreciation for trails, want to learn more and share that knowledge with others.

For more details on what the program entails CLICK HERE.

To apply for the Trail Stewards Program, please click below.