Get out, give back, get dirty…and get to know the Bay Circuit Trail with Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)!
Why volunteer?
Ever wonder what goes into maintaining a trail? Looking for a way to give something back to the local trails you already use? Perhaps you are looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors, learn new skills, and meet like-minded people? Interested in exploring natural “gems” of the greater Boston area? Our introductory trail work events offer the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of trail maintenance or building from skilled AMC Trail Crew leaders in partnership with local BCT partners without leaving Boston’s backyard.
- NEW IN 2015! BASE CAMP TEEN TRAIL CREW
AMC’s traditional summer teen trail crew model comes to the Bay Circuit Trail for one pilot overnight week: Sunday, July 19-Friday, July 24, 2015, based at Harold Parker State Forest. This program is ideal for teens age 15-17 who like being outdoors and are interested in hiking and trail work, but who have limited prior experience in hiking, camping or trail work. Visit the program post for more details and registration information.
Free, open-registration work parties will take place between April and November at various eastern-Massachusetts locations along the trail. Consider coming out for an AMC event close to your home, or use this as a reason to get to know new natural places.
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Contact AMC for more information and to sign up for an event. Directions and details provided in advance of event to registered participants.
When & Where?
Saturdays and certain Sundays–locations and details will be posted beginning in early 2015.
•April 18 (National Volunteer Week) Bridgewater
•June 6 & 7* (National Trails Day 2-day event!) Ipswich (special times: Sat 12pm-4pm, Sun 10am-3pm)
•July 25 Acton (wait list)
•Sept 26-27* Medfield (National Public Lands Day 2-day event!)
•October 17 Sharon
•November 7
What should I expect?
A typical work party starts at 9am and runs until about 4pm. Participants bring their own lunch, water, snacks, long pants (no matter how hot it is!), sturdy hiking boots, and other clothing appropriate for the weather (projects run rain or shine!). The AMC Trail Crew Leaders will provide all personal protective equipment, trail tools, instruction and supervision.
No experience is required to participate, but we encourage beginners and experienced trail volunteers alike. Programs are suitable for individuals, small groups and families with children 12 years and older.
*For 2-day weekend programs, overnight accommodations are not provided, but AMC will provide details for independent camping options if available.
- CUSTOM TRAIL CREW PROGRAMS
Trail work projects are a fantastic way for groups to promote team-building, give back to the community, and have a great time outdoors. If you are in a group of six people or more interested in learning and doing trail work close to Boston, contact AMC BCT Volunteer Programs Supervisor Beth Gula to find out about scheduling a custom trail work event.
Full links:
Weekend Work Party event postings