Backpacking + Trail Work = BCRT

Do you enjoy backpacking and would like to give back to the trails you hike? If so, a WTA Backcountry Response Team (BCRT) is the way to go.

Much like our popular Volunteer Vacations, in that volunteers commit to three to eight days of trail work, BCRTs differ in that trail problems deeper in the backcountry are met by a self-sustained team of volunteers. Volunteers carry their own backpacks with a tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear and food - plus tools for the work they are doing. Then they attend to a trail project or maintenance several miles in on the trail.

If this is something that sounds like lots of fun...it is! BCRTs are gaining in popularity, and in 2011 WTA is fielding 35 of these trips. You can preview the BCRT line-up now, and register for your favorite(s) on Monday, February 7th starting at 10:00am.

What do we have in store for 2011? For those seeking a real challenge, we have BCRTs scheduled for Snow Lake in The Enchantments (8 days!), log-outs of Buckskin Ridge and the PCT from Harts Pass to Rainy Pass (both more than 30 miles), and a late season trip to Hayden Pass along the Elwha River.

We also have some easier outings: East Creek, Lone Fir, Hall Mountain, Downey Creek come to mind. The trip to Bead Lake even offers a boating option!

When asked what some of his favorite upcoming BCRTs are, Alan Carter Mortimer, our intrepid BCRT staff guru, had plenty to mention. He likes construction projects, and both the East Creek and Lone Fir BCRTs feature bridge projects. The Colonel Bob Trail in the Olympics is going to get lots of WTA love this year, with a big logout and trail restoration project. And all of those tough BCRTs that we mentioned above (Snow Lake, Harts Pass, Buckskin Ridge) are sure to please those who enjoy a good view.

We hope you join us on a BCRT this summer. Check out the schedule now, and then be sure to be in front of your computer at 10am on Monday to sign up. Some of these are sure to fill quickly.