Thanks to generous support from Coleman, the AMC is proud to promote the Trails Challenge.
Ever wonder what kind of people enjoy the work and dirt of fixing up trails? They are just like you! They love a good hike on a well-maintained trail. They enjoy meeting new people and learning new skills. They revel in a sense of accomplishment when they leave their mark on a trail that hundreds of other people can then experience. In honor of all those good feelings, AMC has established the Trails Challenge to encourage members adopt trails they use and make a meaningful hand-on difference.
Take the Coleman Trails Challenge! Each Chapter is challenged to add 5 miles of AMC maintained trails per year over the next five years. Since 2005, over 200 miles of trails have been newly adopted by AMC members throughout the region. To take part in the Challenge, look no further than your favorite hiking trails or parks. AMC is looking for volunteers to adopt trails that are close to home or further afield. As long as they are not already maintained by AMC and are legal trails, they qualify. You can work independently or with your friends and family. The Trails Challenge is also trying to engage families and youth workers to get young people out and working on trails new adopters, new members, chapters, and current trail organizers and maintainers will be eligible for a range of rewards from t-shirts to complimentary lodging at AMC Destinations.
Don't have the skills?
Don't worry. Most essential trail work is best learned on the job. If you can follow simple directions while getting to know your fellow crew members, you are qualified for trail work. A great way to get some skills is to participate in Chapter Trail Work Projects. For more complex skills, AMC is fortunate to have many well qualified and skilled trail maintenance leaders among volunteers and staff who can provide training when needed.
Don't have the time?
Even one day a year devoted to trail maintenance goes a long way especially on some of our more heavily used and well-loved trails. Check your chapter activities listings or AMC's volunteer short program listing on the web for options and see what you have been missing. Many activities are great for families.
How to get started:
Contact the Trails Challenge Coordinator at dhoffses@outdoors.org or call 617-391-6598 with your interest or to arrange training in your area. Review the list of adoptable trails and find one that's right for you or suggest a new area or trail where you would like to work. For more information please review our handy guide for how to take part in the challenge. Also, read more detail on what counts toward the Chapter Trails Challenge.
