Run away and join the trail crew for a week! Meet new people of all ages and backgrounds while working and living on the trail. Learn how to build and maintain hiking trails – or, if you’re already an experienced trail maintainer, practice your skills on some neat projects.

Based out of Mt. Tabor Work Center in Mt. Tabor, Vermont, a Volunteer Long Trail Patrol (VLTP) crew consists of 4-6 rotating volunteers led by a GMC Crew Leader and an Assistant Crew Leader. Volunteer crew members work for a week at a time (with the option of working single or multiple weeks) along the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail on projects such as installing rock structures such as turnpikes, waterbars, armored drains and stone steps to create a hardened and sustainable treadway for hikers. VLTP crews work Friday through Tuesday in the field in most weather, potentially moving rocks and lumber.

Crew volunteers arrive at the Mt. Tabor Work Center on Thursday and have a communal dinner with VLTP crew staff. Friday through Monday nights crews camp near their work sites and share a communal camp kitchen, as well as camp chores. The GMC provides transportation to the work site’s trailhead, food for the crew during the work week, tools, personal protective equipment, and some group equipment (stove, fuel, cook-ware, first-aid supplies), as well as some personal gear for volunteers to borrow. Communal day-off housing is available in Mt. Tabor. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate.

Building on work started last year by volunteers, this is an excellent opportunity to learn essential trail skills while installing long-lasting, durable and beautiful trail work.