News Release

Volunteers Needed for 2024 Trail Keeper Program

Date: January 11, 2024
Contact: Effie Houston, 423-569-9778

Obed Wild & Scenic River Trail Keeper program is a volunteer program for those who love the park’s trails and want to help take care of them. The goal of the program is to provide an extended presence in the backcountry while providing park staff with important information on current trail conditions.

Currently, there are several trails available for adoption, varying from easy to difficult. Trail keepers are expected to hike their adopted trail at least four times during the calendar year. They also report on overall trail conditions, pick up any trash, 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:

• Cumberland Trail-Turkey Creek Bridge to Breakaway Bluff (5.2 miles and difficult)
• Boulder Trail (.61 miles and is easy to moderate)

Trail Keepers are a vital part of the park team. To learn more about the Obed Trail Keeper program, email the park volunteer coordinator at [e-mail] or call [phone].