By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine
There’s a saying that echoes through the backcountry this time of year: trails aren’t born—they’re built. And in Bear Valley, that truth couldn’t be more real in 2025.
As the snow melts and the first wildflowers break through the forest floor, Bear Valley’s beloved trail system is waking up. But it’s waking up in rough shape—fallen trees, washed-out tread, and brush-covered switchbacks. Normally, the U.S. Forest Service would tackle much of this seasonal work, but recent staffing cutbacks mean that much of the responsibility now rests with the community.
That’s where Bear Valley Trail Stewardship (BVTS) comes in. And that’s where you come in, too.
Why Trail Work Matters More Than Ever
Volunteers are the heartbeat of mountain trail systems across the Sierra, and this summer, Bear Valley’s trail network is counting on them more than ever. Whether you’re a long-time local, a second-home weekend warrior, or someone who just loves lacing up your boots in the Sierra, this is your chance to give back.
The 2025 BVTS trail work season kicks off June 7 and runs through early October—with something for every skill level, from light raking and lopping to full trail reroutes. Every workday wraps with a free trail lunch, great company, and a sense of contribution that stays with you far beyond the day.
🛠️ 2025 Trail Work Schedule
Here’s how you can get involved:
- June 21 – Main Trail Maintenance: Brush, rake, lop, and clear water drains on local favorites.
- July 12 – Complete Local Trail Work: Wrap up maintenance where needed.
- August 2 – Reroutes and Improvements: Help reshape trail sections for better flow.
- August 23 – New Trail Start: Break ground on a brand-new trail (pending USFS approval).
- September 13 – Final Trail Repairs: Finish the season with final tune-ups.
- October 4 – Thank You Fun Day: No work—just celebration! Enjoy lunch and community activities for all past and present trail volunteers.
📍All tools provided. Just bring gloves, water, sturdy shoes, and friends!
Can’t Volunteer Yet? You Can Still Help
If you’re hiking before June 7 and come across downed trees or damaged tread, you can help by reporting it directly to the BVTS team. Just visit:
👉 BearValleyTrails.org and click the “Report Fallen Trees” button on the homepage.
Every report helps trail crews plan smarter—and keeps everyone safer.
A Trail Community Worth Building
Beyond the brush clearing and trail rakes, BVTS workdays offer something more: connection. You’ll meet fellow hikers, riders, and neighbors who care about this mountain range the same way you do. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to keep our trails alive and accessible.
So this summer, before your next Bear Valley adventure, consider giving a few hours to the trails that have given so much to all of us.
📅 Sign up, show up, and make a difference.
Visit BearValleyTrails.org to join a workday or learn more.
Have questions? Email Gary at Gary.Bissell@BearValleyTrails.org
📸 Tag your photos with #TrailStewardshipSierra and #BearValleyTrails to be featured.
