Trail Volunteering FAQs

What does a typical volunteer day entail?

No two trail work days are the same, but some common activities include: clipping/pruning plants, raking trail heads, building small bridges, moving and spreading trail surface material, and cutting and removing invasive species.

What should I bring/wear?

Trail work can be dirty work! Please wear clothing appropriate for the activity and weather, and please wear closed-toed shoes. Portland Trails will supply all the tools you’ll need, but feel free to bring your own work gloves. Bring water, snacks, and any medications you might require for the duration of the activity.

If I’m volunteering with a group, will the coordination process be?

We will establish a date, time, project, and meeting place for your work day. Prior to volunteering, all members of your group will need to fill out an RSVP & waiver form that we’ll send you. On the day of, we will meet at the specified location and go over the details of the day’s project. Then we’ll get to work!

Where will the trail work be done?

If you’re joining us for a Public Volunteer Day, the project location and directions will be shared with you several days before the scheduled volunteer day. If you’re volunteering with a group, your location and projects will depend on the number of participants, when you want to volunteer, and which trails need attention. Once we establish these details, we will give you directions to the trail we’ll will be working on. If your volunteer group is from one of our Adopt-a-Trail sponsors, we’ll do our best to coordinate a work day on your adopted trail!

Are there other volunteer opportunities besides trail work?

Yes! We host a few annual events including a scavenger hunt and a 5K race which rely on volunteer support. We also conduct regular office mailings, which are much faster (and more fun!) when we have many hands to help. Groups are welcome to join us for these volunteer opportunities too! If you’d like to help at one of our events, check for upcoming volunteer opportunities. If you’d like to volunteer in our office, send an email to with your name, contact information, and your availability.

Still have questions?

If you have further questions, please reach out to our Trail Stewardship & Volunteer Coordinator, Daniel, at .