Location: Tucson, AZ
Challenging. Backpacking with some support; ~10 mi. w/ 5000’ gain
Backcountry. Tent camping.
This is a high elevation project: ~8000′
Help the NPS tackle backlogged and important log check step construction throughout the high country.
Service Project Details
Please review our Cancellation and Refund Policy carefully. By applying to a project, you acknowledge and accept these terms.
All trails within the high elevation Ponderosa Pine forest have a significant maintenance backlog due to their remote location and distance from road access. Saguaro National Park is prioritizing the installation of log check steps throughout the high country over the coming years, given the abundance of dead and downed pine, the efficiency of check step construction, and the long-term benefits for erosion control and trail sustainability.
This area is designated Wilderness, and all work will be completed using traditional hand tools, including hand saws, shovels, Pulaskis, picks, dirt bags, single jacks, levels, and draw knives. Check steps may be constructed individually or in pairs, allowing volunteers to work in the manner that best suits them. The targeted section of trail requires an extended series of check steps, enabling the entire group to remain within sight of one another while working.
This is a high elevation project: ~8000′
View the photo gallery from previous Saguaro National Park projects.
Project leaders: Lee Cooper and Bob Fink
Agency Website
Itinerary
Sunday, May 10th. The Volunteer group will meet at 8 AM at the Saguaro National Park East Visitor’s Center. The group will go through check-in, introductions, orientation, and hike up to the base camp. Everyone will help set up camp in preparation for the work week ahead.
Monday, May 11th. Workday.
Tuesday, May 12th. Workday.
Wednesday, May 13th. Day off. (Hike to Tanque Verde Peak)
Thursday, May 14th. Workday.
Friday, May 15th. Workday.
Saturday, May 16th. Break down camp, hike back to vehicles, goodbyes, and depart.
Nearest Cities
Tucson, AZ
Nearest Airports
Tucson International Airport (TUS) – ~16 miles away
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – ~129 miles away
Free Time Details
Check out Manning Cabin, hiking, viewing wildlife and plants, photography, relaxation.
Accommodations
Backcountry tent camping.
Difficulty
Challenging. Backpacking with some support; ~10 mi. w/ 5000’ gain
Task Details
Bending, cutting, hauling, swinging, digging, throwing, pushing, lifting, kneeling, crouching, sloped terrain, etc.
Equipment List
View Equipment List