Adopt-A-Trail (Area) Program

There are approximately 800 miles of trails and numerous camping areas or campgrounds on the Eldorado National Forest available for hiking, horseback riding, biking, skiing, and motorized vehicle use.

Individuals and groups can help maintain these trails and restore or protect resources in our area by “adopting” a trail.  Your group would return on a continuing basis to ensure the trail that you adopt would remain in good condition.

The type of maintenance needed on each trail or area always varies – even weather can determine what work is necessary – but generally, the work entails removing rock and debris from the trail, cutting out downed trees, trimming brush, maintaining facilities/signs, and removing litter. 

Groups usually camp for a weekend or more near the trail head.  Some like to camp along the trail with tools to enjoy their recreation activities between work periods. Because the time you spend on the trail is your free time, we want you to enjoy it.  It will involve working, learning, and socializing at the same time.  Not only do we want your experience to be enjoyable, we also want it to be safe.  Use this project as an opportunity to teach a safe work ethic to young and old alike.  Safety doesn’t spoil the fun, but accidents do.  Work Safely!

How You Can Adopt a Trail

First, contact the Eldorado National Forest to determine which areas are available for adoption. Your group decides which trail to work on and how much you’re willing to take on.  Then, an agreement is made between your group and the Forest Service.  The Forest Service provides technical direction, information about trail maintenance standards, basic training, and some tools or materials.  You provide the time, muscle, supervision, and energy to keep the trail in good repair.  It’s also up to you to bring gloves and appropriate clothing and boots.

Adopting a trail is a real commitment.  The Forest Service relies on your group to accomplish all the work you sign up for – and appreciates every bit of your energy spent.  You will find this work incredibly rewarding!

Ranger District Coordinators:

• Placerville Ranger District: Linda Babcock
• Pacific Ranger District: Peggy Westphal
• Georgetown Ranger District: Kayla Nimmo
• Amador Ranger District: Christopher Sailor
• Desolation Wilderness: Dustin Bell
• Mokelumne Wilderness: Christopher Sailor

What’s in This for You?

The Forest Service will put a sign at the trail head or area if appropriate, recognizing your contribution to the resource.  More importantly, as a group, you will know how much work and care you put into that area.  You will teach your children the value of contributing to the maintenance of their community’s resources.  You’ll share a special time with friends, laughing and working together to improve a trail or lake for everyone.  At the end of a day, you’ll share stories, the warmth of your campfire, and the satisfaction of muscles sore with accomplishment.

Our Adopt-A-Trail Program

Note: This list is being updated.