Volunteers
Volunteers play a vital role in taking care of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Our motto of caring for the land and serving people is made possible through stewards like you, and we value learning from the expertise and skills our volunteers bring to the agency. In addition to the skills you bring as a volunteer with the Forest Service, you will have the opportunity to grow by:
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Vicinity Map
- Making professional connections new friends.
- Learning new skills and gain confidence working in the outdoors.
- Contributing to key projects, and make a positive impact on public lands that present and future generations will enjoy.
The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers volunteer opportunities across all four of our Ranger Districts and in a variety of fields, such as recreation, interpretation, trail maintenance, and administrative roles. To decide which program would be the best fit for you, please read the options below.
Volunteer Opportunities by District
Located at the far end of the North Zone of the Forest, the Mt. Baker Ranger District is most accessible for people coming from the Bellingham and Sedro-Woolley areas. This district encompasses almost 534,334 acres which includes both the Mt. Baker and Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness areas and is known for popular attractions like the Mt. Baker Ski Area and Baker Lake.
Mountain Stewards (July - Sept.)
Mountain Stewards, Mt. Baker Ranger District
Duties: Volunteer for a minimum of three daytime shifts to educate day hikers, backpackers and climbers on four of the busiest Mt. Baker area trail systems; Heliotrope Ridge, Skyline Divide, Park Butte/Railroad Grade, Yellow Aster Butte, and Heather Meadows/Artist Point.
Skills: Comfortability with public programming/education and experience hiking, backpacking, and/or climbing is helpful. You will receive training in low-impact recreational skills, natural history, and back country management issues.
Mountain Steward Volunteer Application
Mt. Baker Snowshoe Program (Feb. - April)
Program Overview: We need you to help with guided snowshoe trips that present snowshoe basics along with education about winter ecology, local history and safe winter recreation. We provide training and an experienced guide for each trip. Volunteers do not need to be experts.
Snowshoeing to Heather Meadows, Mt. Baker Ranger District
Requirements: An interest in learning and sharing knowledge. Able to hike up to 4-miles over hilly terrain in adverse weather. Condition appropriate outerwear including goggles. Snowshoes and poles provided.
For questions about the Mt. Baker Snowshoe Program please contact: magenta.widner@usda.gov
Volunteer Through a Partner Organization on the Mt. Baker District
Citizens for Forest Roads (CFFR)
CFFR is a nonprofit whose volunteers help in the preservation of access to federal lands by maintaining existing forest roads. CFFR volunteer crews help maintain roads with ditch clean-outs, hand and mechanical brushing, and road clearing. All work is conducted under Forest Service or Washington State Department of Natural Resources land managers.
Panorama Dome Trail, Mt. Baker Ranger District
Nooksack Nordic Ski Club
Become a Nordic Ambassador at Salmon Ridge SnoPark, join a trail work party, or help groom tracks for ski and snowshoe trails. Note: may need to join club to participate in volunteer events.
Northwest Glacier Cruisers
The club supports safe access to groomed trails and warming huts for Washington snowmobilers. Note: may need to join club to participate in volunteer events.
Pacific Northwest Trail Association (PNTA)
As the creators and stewards of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, PNTA leads volunteer crews to perform trail maintenance and construction projects for upkeep of the trail.
For questions about Mt Baker Ranger District’s volunteer opportunities please contact: ellie.syth@usda.gov
Located in the North Zone of the Forest, the Darrington Ranger District is most accessible for people coming from the Mount Vernon, Arlington, and Granite Falls areas. This district includes 367 miles of trails and encompasses almost 565,276 acres which include the Glacier Peak, Henry M Jackson, and Wild Sky Wilderness areas and is known for attractions like Lake 22, the Ice Caves, Glacier Peak, and the Mountain Loop Highway.
Eagle Watchers (Dec. - Jan.)
Viewing bald eagles along the Skagit River, Mt. Baker Ranger District
Program Overview: The Skagit River Watershed boasts one of the largest wintering populations of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. In their wake come lots of people looking for views of the majestic birds roosting in riverside trees or eating fish along gravel bars. Since 1992 Eagle Watchers volunteers share a common bond – love for eagles, salmon and the Skagit River and a desire to benefit both wildlife and people.
Duties: Volunteer for a minimum of three weekend days alongside other experienced volunteers to educate the public about the wintering population of bald eagles along the Skagit River. Additional opportunities to assist in 4th Grade Every Kid Outdoors field trips with local elementary schools are also available.
Skills: Experience with environmental education is helpful. All volunteers will receive in depth training so that they can help visitors appreciate and understand bald eagles and the rich complexity of the Skagit River watershed.
More Information and Volunteer Application
Field Rangers (June - Aug.)
Big Four Mountain, Picnic area, and site of the former Big Four Inn.
Program Overview: The Field Ranger Program is an interpretive volunteer program based at the Big Four Picnic Area, designed to help visitors connect with the area’s history, natural features, and unique geologic landscape. On weekends, volunteers’ welcome visitors at an information station beneath a canopy and provide context about the former Big Four Inn, the historic railroad corridor, and the evolution of the surrounding ecosystem. The program supports public safety, fosters stewardship, and enriches visitor experiences in one of Washington’s coolest “Ice” Caves.
Duties: Greet visitors and offer information and guidance. Rove the Big Four Ice Caves Trail to share knowledge about local flora, fauna, and ecological processes while answering visitor questions and offering friendly, informal education. Provide clear, safety-focused messaging about the hazards associated with the Big Four Ice Caves, helping visitors understand safe viewing practices and the risks inherent to the dynamic ice formations.
Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse visitors in meaningful conversations about history, nature, and safety. Interest or background in interpretation, history, ecology, geology, or outdoor recreation, with a willingness to learn. Comfort spending time outdoors, ability to walk the trail while interacting with visitors.
More Information and Volunteer Application
Stewards of the Mountain Loop (Year-Round)
Program Overview: The Stewards of the Mountain Loop program is a volunteer stewardship initiative focused on keeping the Mountain Loop Highway corridor clean, safe, and accessible. This work helps protect the scenic beauty and ecological health of the area, ensuring that trails, campsites, and day-use areas remain safe and enjoyable for all visitors. Stewards demonstrate the importance of community involvement in caring for these public lands. By volunteering, you help maintain one of Washington’s most popular recreation corridors.
Duties: Monitor and maintain recreation areas such as trails, campsites, picnic areas, and interpretive sites along the Mountain Loop corridor. Volunteers help keep these areas clean and safe by removing litter and debris and assisting with restoration of sites impacted by heavy use. Stewards also provide visitors with information about recreation opportunities, Leave No Trace principles, safety guidance, and Forest Service rules and regulations to support responsible recreation.
Skills: Ability to hike across a variety of terrain and conditions. Basic trail awareness and navigation skills. Ability to engage with visitors and share Leave No Trace principles.
More Information and Volunteer Application
Monte Cristo Host Program (June - August)
Program Overview: The Monte Cristo Host Program offers volunteers a unique opportunity to live and serve in the historic mining town of Monte Cristo. Volunteers stay in a restored historic cabin and engage with hikers, history enthusiasts, and other visitors. Hosts help share the rich cultural and natural history of the area while supporting Forest Service stewardship efforts.
Duties: Greet visitors and provide information about Monte Cristo’s history, local landmarks, and recreational opportunities. Share current trail conditions, safety information, and Leave No Trace practices. Assist with minor trail maintenance, including clearing debris and helping maintain safe, accessible paths. Support small-scale stewardship tasks such as light cabin upkeep or minor restoration projects. Maintain an approachable, welcoming presence at the historic cabin and surrounding area.
Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a willingness to engage with a diverse range of visitors. Interest in Pacific Northwest history, public lands, or outdoor recreation. Prior knowledge of Monte Cristo is helpful but not required. Ability to hike and work in a remote, mountainous setting. Basic skills or willingness to learn simple maintenance and light restoration tasks.
More Information and Volunteer Application
Volunteer Through a Partner Organization on the Darrington District
Friends for Public Use
Friends for Public Use works together with the US Forest Service and other land managers to maintain road access by clearing roads to the designated clearance limits. We remove wind-blown trees, brush, and other obstacles to the standard needed to keep the road open.
We also clear culverts and remove the accumulations of garbage that can cause a beautiful, natural spot to turn into an eye sore.
Monte Cristo Preservation Association (MCPA)
Monte Cristo Preservation Association is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and protecting the historic Monte Cristo Mining District. The Monte Cristo Mining District was once a thriving mining community, known for its rich deposits of gold, silver, and other precious metals. Today, it is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and history enthusiasts. The mission of the Monte Cristo Preservation Association is to promote public awareness of the district's history and to preserve its natural and cultural resources.
Darrington Historical Society
The Darrington Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Darrington. They have played a key role in helping preserve the history of the Forest Service and its historical structures in Darrington.
For questions about the Darrington Ranger District’s volunteer opportunities please contact:
Grace.grubisich@usda.gov - Darrington
Justin.sundstrom@usda.gov – Verlot
The Skykomish Ranger District is located approximately 50 miles east of Everett on U.S. Highway 2 within portions of Snohomish and King Counties.
The district contains approximately 315,000 acres, including about 218,000 acres of designated wilderness in the Alpine Lakes, Henry M. Jackson, and Wild Sky wilderness areas. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the Skykomish Ranger District; we maintain portions of the trail north and south of Stevens Pass (Section J and K).
Wilderness/Trails Volunteer (May-Oct.)
Wilderness Patrols: Hike to lakes and campsites; restore damaged areas; assist and educate visitors; monitor condition of wilderness resources.
Trail Work: This work includes cutting fallen trees, brushing, drainage, tread work, and trail structure projects.
Skills Needed: Applicants should be physically fit with experience of travelling in the backcountry overnight. Knowledge of Leave No Trace principles and the ability to communicate effectively to the public. Previous work with hand tools is helpful but not required. Crosscut certification may be available to interested volunteers.
For questions about the Skykomish Ranger District’s volunteer opportunities please contact:
Located on the South Zone of the Forest, the Snoqualmie Ranger District is most accessible for people coming from the greater Seattle, North Bend, and Enumclaw areas. This district encompasses almost 350,000 acres of land, including 110,000 acres within the Alpine Lakes, Norse Peak, and Clearwater Wilderness areas and is known for popular attractions like the Summit at Snoqualmie, Franklin Falls, and Crystal Mountain Resort.
Wilderness Ranger (May-Oct.)
Duties: Patrol and maintain trails, lakes and campsites; restore damaged areas; assist and educate visitors; monitor condition of wilderness resources.
Skills Needed: Education or experience in land stewardship, environmental education, and outdoor recreation are helpful.
Fire Lookout (May-Oct.)
Duties: Work with other volunteers to help maintain lookout towers; monitor radio communications; greet visitors; maintain the building as needed.
Skills Needed: Must be mature and willing to work in harsh environments. Carpentry and painting skills would be helpful.
Visitor Information Assistant (May-Oct.)
Duties: Assist Forest visitors at the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Information Center. Provide information on trail conditions, recreational opportunities, and required permits.
Skills Needed: Should be familiar with local trails and other recreational opportunities.
Mail applications to:
Volunteer Coordinator
Snoqualmie Ranger District, North Bend Office
902 S.E. North Bend Way, Bldg 1
North Bend, WA 98045
(425) 888-1421
Forest Wide Opportunities with our Partners
Back Country Horsemen of Washington: These volunteers help keep trails open for all users. They teach riders Leave-No-Trace practices and work with natural resource agencies to keep public lands open to recreational stock use.
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance: The Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance volunteers help construct, maintain and protect sustainable mountain biking opportunities in Washington State.
Mountains to Sound Greenway
Trail and habitat restoration volunteer opportunities occur throughout the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area, with a focus on projects in the Issaquah Alps, Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River Valley, and the Teanaway Community Forest. These events are great for individuals, corporate groups, and community groups (all participants must be 14 years or older). Volunteers meet their event leads at the trailhead and hike to the project site together.
Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA): The Pacific Crest Trail was built with the sweat and determination of volunteers and agency partners with the idea that building a trail from Mexico to Canada would benefit future generations. Volunteers on the 2,650-mile long Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail can participate in the adopt-a-trail program or take part in regularly scheduled weekend projects (one-three days) and volunteer vacations (five-10 days).
Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association: This non-profit organization supports four-wheel drive outdoor recreation while preserving the environment. Members promote leave no trace practices.
The Mountaineers
The Mountaineers, a 15,000+ member community of people exploring, learning, and conserving the Pacific Northwest. Each year they work to repair trails, maintain climbing sites, restore shorelines, maintain historic fire lookouts, and more.
Washington Trails Association: Each year hundreds of people join Washington Trails Association as volunteers - on the trail, in the office and with the public at events. WTA schedules more than 600 work parties each year, contributing 80,000 hours of trail work in Washington state. You don't need to have any prior experience (or be particularly strong) to join - just sign up for a work party.
Washington Climbers Coalition
Is an all-volunteer non-profit organization, with a mission to make Washington a better place to climb through advocacy, stewardship, and education.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers – Washington Chapter
They seek to promote a positive image of hunting and angling to the public, while committing labor and passion to meaningful improvements for fish, wildlife and shared public lands.
Conservation Northwest
Conservation Northwest’s Wildlife Ambassador Project encourages the public to adopt a recreation ethic that prioritizes respect of wildlife. Our guiding principles help deepen public understanding of what it means to follow the recognizable Leave No Trace principle of ‘Respect Wildlife’ and how to be prepared for wildlife encounters.
The Forest Service partners with organizations that host both volunteer and/or paid experiences for youth. Learn more about these opportunities below: