Frequently Asked Questions about Trail Work

When do your work parties go out on the trail?
The Tahoe Rim Trail Maintenance Crews work on the trail every Tuesday and Saturday from the first weekend in June to October 15th.  Trail crews meet at 9:00 am and work until 4:00 P.M.

How much experience do I need?
No experience is required or necessary to participate in trail work parties. Our crew leaders are trained to teach volunteers about the fun of trail construction and maintenance. We hope by investing our time in teaching you about trail maintenance, you'll come back and join us again. Click here for Reno Gazette Journal photo slideshow

What do I need to wear?
All trail maintenance volunteers must wear long sleeves, long pants, boots, work gloves, and a hardhat (this item is provided) when working on the Tahoe Rim Trail in all working conditions. These are US Forest Service guidelines and must be adhered to at all times. We can not allow anyone who is not properly dressed to work. Proper clothing is necessary for your safety.

What do I need to bring?
Along with yourself and a smile, bring plenty of water and a lunch. We also suggest bringing energy bars or trail mix to get you through the rest of the day. Sunscreen is also highly recommended.

Can I bring my pet?
No. Please do not bring any pets. Pets can be a significant distraction and in some rare cases a safety hazard.

What does the TRTA supply?
We will supply hardhats, all needed tools, and the expertise necessary to lead the volunteer crews through an intense yet fun and fulfilling day of trail maintenance on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Can I bring my kids?
Yes, we love to have children along. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form from their parent or legal guardian. Each child under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please download our parental consent form .

Why is trail maintenance so important?
Trail maintenance is essential to preventing the degradation of any trail system including the Tahoe Rim Trail.  As the number of visitor to Lake Tahoe increases each year, the Tahoe Rim Trail is taking on more trail users each year. It is essential to the survival of this trail system that volunteer work crews work to maintain it each summer season.

Can I bring a big group?
Yes. But if your group is larger than six people, please contact us to make special arrangements or check out our information page for groups here.

Do you still work in bad weather? Yes - Rain or Shine!
Unless you are notified otherwise, our crew leaders will be waiting for you at the trailhead. If the bad weather continues through out the day we may go home early. It's a very democratic process. The crew leader will listen to the volunteers and call off the work party. You may leave early on your own if you like, but please notify your crew leader if you are leaving and sign out.

Should I bring my own tools?
No.  TRTA provides all the tools you need. Please do NOT bring your own axes, machetes, etc. Our safety lecture includes a comprehensive discussion of the safe usage of each tool. We can not permit anyone to bring and use a tool not covered in our safety lecture.

What kind of safety measures are in place?
Crew Leaders have current CPR & First Aid training at a minimum. Each leaders has been through crew leader training, is equipped with a First Aid kit and Forest Service radio. Each workday begins with an extensive safety lecture, covering site details, tools, weather, and potential job hazards. Everyone must be present for the safety lecture if they are to be allowed to work that day. It doesn't matter how many times you've heard it you must be present. All our work parties start at 9:00 a.m. and it's crucial that you be at the trail-head and ready to go by that time. Volunteers are covered by US Forest Service worker’s compensation when they sign in for the day.