Adirondack Mountain Club

Health insurance is required to participate in this program.

The Calamity Brook Trail Maintenance project is a 4-day-long cooperative trail work opportunity for anyone ages 14 and up. No prior experience is necessary! During the program the group will dig drainages and improve the trail tread on Calamity Brook Trail, in the High Peaks Wilderness. The crew will be camping near the worksite during the project. 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 Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 2:00:00 PM, at the Upper Works parking lot. After group introductions and an overview of the project, the crew will hike in to their campsite. They will set up camp, have some lunch, and begin working on the project. Thursday and Friday, the crew will spend about 8 hours working. On Saturday, the crew will finish any remaining work, pack up camp and hike out. We will aim to be out of the woods and back at the parking lot by 11:00:00 AM.

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. 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, personal protective equipment, food, and group camp gear (cookware, stove, fuel, and food storage) needed for the project. Upon registration, please indicate if you have any dietary restrictions so we can incorporate those into group meals.