Trail Stewards in Action: Volunteer and User-Focused Safety

A two-part workshop series providing trail safety education and environmental protection training for trail volunteers and trail users. You can choose to attend one or both parts of the day, depending on your interests! Make sure to dress for the weather, as we will be out on the trails, rain or shine!

Part 1: Volunteer Trail Steward Training (10am-12pm)

This is designed for trail volunteers and emerging trail leaders. Participants will receive instruction in trail safety fundamentals, identifying and reporting hazards, emergency awareness and response protocols, sustainable trail maintenance principles, and effective communication with trail users. The workshop emphasizes accessibility, sustainability, and stewardship, equipping volunteers to serve as frontline ambassadors for safe and responsible trail use. Participants completing the training will be recognized as Certified Trail Stewards.

Part 2: Trail User Safety (12pm-2:00pm)

This is designed for the general public, including hikers, families, students, and new outdoor recreationists. Through a guided, educational hike, participants will learn safe trail navigation, situational awareness, weather and seasonal safety considerations, wildlife encounters, shared-use trail etiquette, and Leave No Trace principles. Real-time demonstrations on the trail will reinforce environmental protection and responsible recreation behaviors.