New to trail work? This is a great place to start. Already have experience? This is a chance to sharpen your skills, flex your talent, and connect with the crew that helps care for one of New Hampshire’s most heavily used mountains.

This is not a classroom session. You’ll be outside, on trail, using basic hand tools and learning by doing. The work includes clearing drainage, removing loose rock & debris, improving trail surface, and identifying common maintenance issues before they become larger problems.

For first-time volunteers, this is a supportive introduction to trail work. For returning or experienced volunteers, it is a chance to build confidence, ask better questions, and get aligned with how modern maintenance techniques are being brought to the historic legacy trails of Monadnock.

You’ll leave with practical skills, a clearer understanding of trail stewardship, and a direct connection to the volunteer program that helps care for Monadnock throughout the season.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• A hands-on field day at Monadnock State Park.
• Instruction from experienced trail crew leaders.
• Light to moderate physical work on an active trail.
• A steady, manageable pace with the group.
• Time for questions, practice, and skill-building.
• A lunch break on or near the trail.
• A good next step if you are interested in volunteering more often.

This training is a good fit for:

• First-time volunteers who want to learn the basics.
• Hikers who want to give back to Monadnock.
• Experienced volunteers who want a refresher.
• People interested in joining the Monadnock Volunteer Trail Crew.
• Anyone who wants to better understand how sustainable trails are maintained.

No experience is required. Experienced volunteers are welcome and encouraged.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Monadnock’s trails receive heavy use throughout the year. Regular maintenance helps reduce erosion, protect natural resources, improve visitor safety, and preserve the hiking experience for thousands of people. By participating in this training, you are learning useful trail skills while contributing directly to the long-term care of Monadnock State Park. Plus, it's a lot of fun!

This is an outdoor, field-based training. Participants should be prepared to spend the day outside and hike a 1 mile distance to and from the work area. Lunch on site, on trail. A port-a-pottie is available at the trailhead parking area. Registered participants will receive additional details before the event, including where to meet and any weather-related updates. *Do not follow your GPS onto Shaker Farm Road North*