Become a Trail Ambassador at National Capital Parks - East!

Earth Day Park Clean-Up at Fort Davis in Washington, DC

NPS / Emily Alff

Become a Trail Ambassador at the Civil War Defenses of Washington

We have launched a brand-new volunteer position on the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail, a path linking several Civil War-era forts. As Trail Ambassadors, groups of volunteers will monitor, report on, and maintain chosen portions of the trail to improve it for all who engage with it.

What is a Trail Ambassador?

A volunteer who adopts a section of the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail to monitor its conditions, report information to NPS staff, and actively maintain its natural quality. Volunteers walk their trail portion at least once a month, and duties may include cleaning up litter, trimming overgrown vegetation, and assisting visitors.

What is the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail?

The Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail is a 6.5-mile multi-use pathway in southeast/northeast Washington, DC running from Fort Mahan Park to Fort Stanton Park and through several other Civil War-era sites. The trail can be navigated in either direction and has multiple areas near Metro stations for easy car-free access. The trail is split into six sections, the longest being around 1.5 miles, and each is denoted by the streets between which it runs.

Where can I serve as a Trail Ambassador?

Trail Ambassadors can work on any of the following trail sections:

1. Fort Place SE to Marion Barry Avenue SE (~0.6 mile one-way)

2. Marion Barry Avenue SE to Park Drive SE (~1.1 mile one-way)

   1. Please note: the linked map displays “Good Hope Rd SE”, the former name of Marion Barry Avenue.

3. Branch Avenue SE to Massachusetts Avenue SE (~1 mile one-way)

4. Massachusetts Avenue SE to Ridge Road SE (~1.5 miles one-way)

5. Ridge Road SE to Benning Road NE (~1.1 mile one-way)

6. Benning Road NE & Fort Mahan Park circular trail up to Grant Street NE (~1 mile one-way)

 

 

Earth Day Park Clean-Up at Fort Davis in Washington, DC.

NPS / Emily Alff

How to Get Involved

Individuals interested in becoming Trail Ambassadors can get more information and apply by visiting Volunteer.gov or by emailing us. As an official NPS volunteer, you must participate in orientation and training to prepare for your role as a Trail Ambassador. Once complete, select a section of the trail to work on and National Capital Parks – East staff will provide you with the necessary equipment and a detailed workplan.

Already a Trail Ambassador on the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail, but looking for a similar opportunity. Visit volunteer.gov to learn about our Trail Ambassador program at Oxon Cove Park.

Eager to get further involved in volunteering? Be sure to follow National Capital Parks - East on social media to stay up to date on volunteer events, positions, and programs!