Volunteers needed for trail projects in North Idaho

The nonprofit organization Idaho Trails Association is looking for hikers who are interested in helping on one-day, weekend, and week-long projects throughout the summer to maintain trails in North Idaho.

No experience is needed to participate, and hikers of all levels are encouraged to join. All tools and training will be provided at the start of the trip. Many ITA volunteers describe their experience as empowering and a great way to meet other outdoor enthusiasts.

ITA has projects planned all over the state and 15 scheduled in the North Idaho region for summer 2021. Here are three upcoming projects:

Mickinnick Trail — June 5

On National Trails Day, volunteers will work again on this very popular 3.5 mile locally-built hiking trail. Mickinnick gains 2,200 feet to reach a beautiful viewpoint far above the city of Sandpoint. Volunteers will cut out logs, do tread work, improve drainage and trim back brush.

Couer d’Alene National Recreation Trail — June 18-20

A three-day project in the beautiful upper North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River. We’ll remove logs, cut brush, and do some tread work on this scenic National Recreation Trail that follows the river. We’ll stay in a great car camping area that has a really good swimming hole. Come for one, two or all three days.

Fault Lake Trail 59 Weeklong — July 18-23

A six-day project high in the Selkirk Mountains in North Idaho. Hike about five miles into a great campsite just below the lake and build a “turnpike” (raised walkway) through a swampy area. We’ll also do tread work, brushing and drainage improvement. A backcountry horse crew will haul in our gear.

To sign up for these projects and see the rest of ITA’s North Idaho schedule, visit https://www.idahotrailsassociation.org/upcoming-projects.