About The Crew:

This program is designed for 20- to 30-somethings interested in meeting and working with other folks their same age to give back to the trails. This program provides a unique opportunity to learn about the White Mountain regions and do trail work unique to this ecosystem and environment, and be a proactive part of their stewardship.

You will have the opportunity to meet some amazing people, and do some incredible work on the trails.  The week will begin on Sunday evening with dinner and an orientation at AMC Camp Dodge with your leaders. On Monday the crew will head out for a day trip to a work project nearby and return for another night at Camp Dodge.

On Tuesday the crew will pack into the backcountry and set up camp with crew leaders for the next three nights. Packs usually weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Projects may include building drainage structures, rock steps, bog bridges, or a variety of other activities. Please remember that the hiking and the trail work can be strenuous and demanding, and that we’ll be out rain or shine.  

The crew will return on Friday to Camp Dodge in time to clean up and join the Friday night barbeque at 6 p.m.  Participants may leave Friday evening or Saturday morning– Friday night stay and Saturday morning breakfast is included in program cost. The program cost also includes leadership, group gear, tents, tools, safety equipment, food, and transportation to and from the trail head.

Camp Life:

The week begins at AMC Camp Dodge Volunteer Center where there are bunkhouses, bathroom facilities, hot showers, and a full kitchen / dining room. The rest of the week will be based out of a remote backcountry campsite. The crew will hike in all of their tents, group gear and food for the week.

Each morning the crew gets up and helps prepare breakfast. Our crews are contacted each morning by handheld radio to check in to see if any additional food or tools are needed. After breakfast the crew takes what they need for the day, including water, rain gear, lunch, tools and safety gear, and heads to the project site.

These crews are not all work; there are plenty of opportunities to hike, see the views, eat great food, and more. The crew all works together to help prepare delicious meals to satisfy the Trail Worker appetite. After dinner is a great time to unwind and relax in the backcountry. Crews play games, tell stories, take a dip in a near-by stream, discusses conservation and environmental ethics, but most of all they just kick back and enjoy the evening and company.

What The Volunteers Say:

"I met so many great people. It was fun to get to know others that share my interested. I have been staying in touch with several others from the crew months later. Thanks for a great week." Steph (2011 Young Members Crew Participant)

"I loved hiking and getting a stone to set for the first time! Volunteering with the AMC was a great way to experience the woods and the White Mountains." Mike (2011 Young Members Crew Participant)

"Lots of hard work, mud, laughs, and good times." Matthew (2011 Young Members Crew Participant)

"This is my first Crew… hopefully of many. A great way to meet new people!" Sarah (2011 Young Members Crew Participant)

2011 Dates:
June 24-29

Contribution:
$240 (AMC members)
$265 (non-member)