Background
In 1995 Shane Krogen discovered the Forest Service "Adopt-a-Trail" program. This program enables individuals, business and special interest groups to adopt and maintain trails within the National Forest. Shane then adopted a 12.2 mile segment of the California Riding and Hiking Trail in the vicinity of Huntington Lake. In the summer of 1997 the US Forest Service approached him and presented (him with) a challenge. Due to budget restraints, they needed additional volunteer help maintaining over 400 miles of trail between Yosemite National Park on the north and Sequoia – Kings Canyon National Parks on the south. This included 27 miles of the famous Pacific Crest / John Muir Trail, in some of the most scenic portions of the John Muir Wilderness.
His response was the formation of the High Sierra Volunteer Trail Crew in the spring of 1998. During the first season, a small but very dedicated group contributed ten days of trail work which amounted to 800 hours of volunteer time. In summer of 1998 with strong support from the local TV Stations and news paper, our volunteer group expanded to over 35 participants on each outing. This resulted in over 1600 hours of trail work performed, with a combined two summer total of over 2400 hours.
The diversity of participants has been amazing! The youngest "in attendance" was Chrissy and Matt McCombs’ six month old son, Triston. The oldest is 91 year-old Ralph who offers to do anything in camp if only we let him have dinner with us. We had another hard working senior trail worker who was in his mid-70’s. We invite you to involve your children and grandparents in this type of community service project. There is the added benefit of the time spent with your children doing good work together, and this is priceless. We recommend a minimum age of 14 years old, but all ages are welcome.
Trail work can be very demanding but the rewards are invaluable, especially when a wilderness hiker stops and thanks you for your efforts. Most of the time, the work is not at all strenuous when a group is tackling a project together. Trail workers get to know each other, and by the end of the day you've made a new friend, business contact or "significant other" and just had a good time in the process. You're with people from all walks of life who share a love of the outdoors. Backpackers have even dropped their packs and work side by side with us for the day. In the midst of all the hard work, is great camaraderie, with lots of good humor, laughter, and great conversation. As the day ends you will be filled with the sense of great accomplishment and pride at what a little bit of team work can produce.
All meals are provided free of charge. You are only responsible for bringing your own beverages. Delicious and ample food is a high priority and trail crew meals have become legendary! There is always all-you-can-eat and then some. The BBQ Tri-Tip dinner has become our specialty. If you prefer vegetarian or Vegan meals or have any specific food requirements, please advise us ten days in advance of the trip so we can provide meals to meet your health needs.
Our cause is worthy, the need is great, and your consideration to attend is greatly appreciated.
(Sincerely,
Shane Krogen
Founder / Executive Director,
High Sierra Volunteer Trail Crew)