Overview

This crew will work on clearing downed logs in the middle section of the Dewey Lake Trail. This trail is adjacent to the Pacific Crest Trail and the very popular Naches Loop trail. It connects Chinook Pass to the American River Valley.

The crew may camp at the top near Dewey Lake, or in the American River Valley. The campsite will be determined closer to the trip once the trail is scouted. In either case, the crew will enjoy a quieter campsite in the shadow of Mount Rainier and enjoy early season berries and perfect swimming weather.

About the Area

The Dewey Lake Trail is a little-known trail neighboring the extremely popular Naches Loop of Chinook Pass. Starting either at Chinook Pass or downhill at the Mesatchee Creek trailhead, this trail wanders through the American River valley then climbs uphill to connect to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). It offers great views of Rainier and the surrounding William O Douglass Wilderness.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!

Project Description

The main focus of this trip will be clearing fallen trees with crosscut saws and hand saws. No experience with these tools is required. One of our certified Assistant Crew Leaders will teach you how to use them safely.

The crew may also do annual maintenance tasks including pruning back overgrown vegetation, improving the walking tread, and improving drainage on the trail.

Camping and Hiking Information

• Backcountry basecamp
• Location: Dewey Lake or in American River Valley
• The crew may spend 1-2 days in a backcountry camp then move to another backcountry camp.
• Weather: Be prepared for heat, cold, wind and rain.

• Exact hiking distances will be determined closer to the trip. You can expect:
• Initial hike to camp: up to 4 miles with up to 1500 feet of elevation gain at a moderate pace while carrying your backpack fully loaded with all provisions including camping gear and food, plus tools (provided by WTA).
• Expected daily hike to project: 4-6 miles roundtrip with 1500 feet of elevation gain at a moderate pace on the most strenuous days.

Schedule

• Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp
• Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew.
• Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

• A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project
• Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail
• Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 
• Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles
• Day work party experience recommended
• Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests
• Minimum age: 18

What to Bring

Required:

• Sturdy work or hiking boots. Review our Logout Boot Guide for more details.
• Work gloves 
• Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, safety glasses, or mesh “bug eyes”. Glasses should have wrapping side shields. ANSI Z87.1+)
• Long pants
• Long sleeve shirt

Required for Chainsaw Use: 

• Sturdy work or hiking boots that are “cut resistant” or leather, laced boots that provide ankle support and nonskid soles. 

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. For chainsaw use, volunteers will be provided with additional PPE (eye protection, ear pro, gloves, and chainsaw chaps). For safety reasons, volunteers who do not have required gear will not be able to participate in the work party. 

Backpacking gear

• Backpack to carry all of your gear
• Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip
• At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water
• Rain jacket and rain pants
• Extra warm clothing
• Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals
• Sun and bug protection
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries
• ​First aid kit
• A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

• Boots
• Long pants 
• Work gloves
• Long-sleeved shirt recommended
• Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses
• WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

• What to Pack for a Backcountry Response Team
• Frequently Asked Questions
• WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
• Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367

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