by Ed Lawrence, KTA Trail Care Chair
There are thousands of miles of hiking trails criss-crossing Pennsylvania's state parks, forests and other public lands, as well as strategic connector links established on private property throughout the Commonwealth. Volunteers play a vital role in keeping this extensive recreational network open and maintained for the benefit of all hikers, from the youngest tenderfoot to the gnarliest backpacker.
The Trail Care/ Trail Crew Program of the Keystone Trails Association (KTA), PA's statewide umbrella hiking organization, has been instrumental in coordinating and sponsoring volunteer opportunities to upgrade trails and improve the hiking experience. Tasks include using hand tools to clear the trail treadway and corridor, installing signage posts and painting blazes. The spring Trail Care schedule begins April 11-13, headquartered at Seven Mountains Boy Scout Camp, to work on the State College Region of the Mid State Trail. This will be followed, in May, by a weekend focused on the T-Squared Trail north of Hyner Run State Park, a connector trail that links the Black Forest and Donut Hole Trails.
Five consecutive week-long Trail Crews will begin at the end of May. Volunteers can sign up for the entire week, or work any number of days their schedules allow. These crews will tackle projects on the North Country, Chuck Keiper, Allegheny Front, Mid State Everett Region, and Standing Stone Trails. Crew participants will have their meals provided.
The complete Trail Care schedule, running through November, along with detailed information can be found at: www.kta-hike.org. No prior trail work experience is necessary. Volunteers make it happen, and the rewards are immeasurable.
Contact: Ed Lawrence, Chair, Keystone Trails Association's Trail Care Program, 570-925-5285 or cathyed@frontier.com.