Adirondack Mountain Club

Health insurance is required to participate in this program.

The Teen Trail Crew: Build the Rock Garden Trail is a 5-day long cooperative trail work opportunity for anyone 14 to 17 years old. No prior experience is necessary! During the program, the group will build a new section of trail to connect the Rock Garden trail with the Long Trail up Mount Jo. The crew will camp in the Heart Lake Wilderness Campground and hike approximately 1-mile to and from the project site each day. This program is great for anyone who loves trails in the Adirondacks and wants to give back to them. ADKs crew leaders will instruct all participants on the safe and efficient use of the tools and the process to build sustainable trail infrastructure in backcountry settings. Come prepared to work hard, get your hands dirty, and have fun!

While highly rewarding, trail work is also physically and mentally demanding. Participants should be prepared to carry heavy packs, and work in the rain, bugs, and mud! We will work in virtually all weather conditions, as long as it is safe to do so. Non-motorized hand tools will be used to complete the trail projects. Volunteers should expect to use tools such as rock bars, pick mattocks, shovels, hand saws, hammers/sledges, axes, and pruning shears. The project will be led by ADK’s professional crew leaders. Instructions on how to use these tools properly and safely will be discussed before beginning work by ADK crew leaders. While no prior experience is necessary, good physical condition, proper clothing, and proper equipment are a must!

ADK provides all the tools, personal protective equipment, food, and group camp gear (cookware, stove, fuel, and food storage) needed for the week. Participants are expected to bring their own camping gear; however, some camping gear is available to borrow on a case-by-case basis. Upon registration, please indicate if you have any dietary restrictions so we can incorporate those into the food plan.

ADK reserves the right to deny participation if group safety will be compromised through an individual’s participation.

*ADK cannot guarantee a time the volunteer project will be completed. *