Backcountry Response Team FAQs

Q. What is a BCRT?

Sawyers on Dumbell Lake log-out

A. BCRTs are WTA's version of extended backcountry trail maintenance excursions. These trips take groups of 4 - 8 volunteers (sometimes 12, depending on the project), including a WTA crew leader, into areas of the backcountry that are not typically reached during a one-day or weekend work party. Projects will range from log-outs of long sections of trail to more specific construction, reconstruction and maintenance efforts.

Q. How is a BCRT different from a Volunteer Vacation?

A. Volunteer Vacations are weeklong trips that range from car camps to strenuous backpacks in to a base camp, and can be enjoyable for the novice hiker or for the skilled backpacker, depending on the trip. BCRTs are intended for the experienced backpacker who can be fully self-supported while camping in the backcountry. WTA provides food for Volunteer Vacations, but on BCRTs each person will need to bring provisions for his/her consumption for the duration of the trip. You must be 18 or older, or accompanied by an adult, to attend.

Q.  Can I arrive late or leave early?
A. No. As with our day trips and Volunteer Vacations, our policy is that each person is committing for the full trip when they sign up. 

Q. What else will I need to bring?

A. Think of anything you would bring on a typical backpacking trip, including food. Then add work gear - long pants, work gloves, etc. Use WTA's Volunteer Vacation pack list as a starting point.

The BCRT crew on the West Fork Foss Trail is geared up and ready to go.

Q. What is the difficulty?

A. Generally, BCRTs are much more arduous than Volunteer Vacations, and there may be days where you are hiking long miles while carrying tools and a full pack.

Q. What is the cost?

A. There is no cost to attend.

Q. What forms do I need to fill out?

A. You will need to fill out a WTA medical form. This is the same form used on our Volunteer Vacations. You will find a link to this form in the work party agenda e-mailed to you from trail_teams@wta.org when you sign up. This will be given to the crew leader to be kept with their gear in the event of a medical emergency.

Q. Can I be added to a waitlist?

A. Absolutely. If a trip is marked as "Full," please contact the office by e-mailing trail_teams@wta.org or by calling 206/965-8565, and we will add you to the waitlist.