News Release

Volunteers Needed for Trail Keeper Program

Trail Keeper surveying a downed tree over a trail.

NPS

News Release Date: January 5, 2022

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

Do you enjoy hiking the trails? Do you have extra time to help keep them clear for all to enjoy? If so, then Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area needs you! The volunteer Trail Keepers consist of dedicated park visitors who give their time to help keep the park’s trail system in top-notch condition for the benefit of all. The goal of the program is to provide an extended presence in the backcountry while providing Big South Fork’s staff with information on trail conditions.

The Trail Keeper program began in 2014, and currently, there are more than 70 different trails available for adoption. Trail Keepers are asked to hike, bike, or horse ride their adopted trail at least four times during the calendar year. They report overall trail conditions, and submit a trail report after each visit. Being a Trail Keeper does not involve heavy trail maintenance or the use of power equipment. Trail Keepers may use a small handsaw to remove small trees that have fallen across the trail and may move branches and other light maintenance by hand.

A few of the trails currently available for adoption include:

1. Ledbetter Trailhead to Laurel Hill Multiuse Trail (an easy to moderate 8.7 mile hiking trail)
2. Laurel Fork Creek Trail (12 miles easy to moderate 12 mile hiking trail)
3. Big Island Loop (8.7 mile horse trail)
4. O&W Trail (13.6 mile horse trail)

Volunteers are invaluable. Without them, the park could not otherwise complete the many projects and tasks necessary in keeping the park looking its best.

To learn more about the Big South Fork Trail Keeper program, email the park’s volunteer coordinator at [e-mail] or call [phone].