Adirondack Mountain Club

Health insurance is required to participate in this program.

The Elk Lake Trail Work Project project is a 5-day-long cooperative trail work opportunity for anyone ages 14 and up. No prior experience is necessary! During the program the group will construct a new footbridge on a trail on Elk Lake property. The crew will be overnighting in rooms provided by Elk Lake. This program is great for anyone who loves the trails in the Adirondacks and wants to give back to them. ADK’s crew leaders will instruct all participants on the 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!

Our tentative itinerary is as follows: We will meet on 6/15/2026 at 11:00:00 AM, on the front porch of Elk Lake Lodge. After group introductions and a brief overview of the week, folks will have time to get settled in their rooms before gathering again to hike out to the worksite and get started on the project. From Tuesday through Thursday the crew will hike to the worksite and spend about 8 hours working. On Friday, the crew will wrap up any remaining work. We will plan on finishing the work and being out of the woods by 2:00:00 PM.

While highly rewarding, trail work is also physically and mentally demanding. Participants should be prepared to 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. The project will be led by ADK’s professional crew leaders. Instructions on how to use the 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, and personal protective equipment needed for the projects, and Elk Lake will provide all food and lodging. Upon registration, please indicate if you have any dietary restrictions so we can incorporate those into the food plan.