Dog Mountain Trail Maintenance with WTA

Activity Notes

They liked our work!

Let’s do another trail maintenance collab with WTA on Upper Dog Mountain. 

Overview

A Juneteenth special event! Join us in the afternoon to start this strenuous work party that will end with a sunset. Headlamps are required--though we anticipate hiking out while it's still light, you must still come with a functional AND charged headlamp or you will be asked to sit this one out. This work party is made for those of you who like a physical challenge as you give back to the trails you love.

About the Area

The stunning views and unparalleled springtime flowers make this one of the most popular hikes in the Gorge. On a good day, you can get a bird’s eye view of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River. In the spring the top is carpeted with vibrant yellow balsam root. Although the trail is steep and sometimes crowded, this hike is unquestionably worth the effort.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description

Get ready for a long, hard, amazing day! There is a small section of trail near the top of this hike that has been skipped over. You will maintain it! After a safety briefing, you will grab your tools, hike the steep trail nearly to the top of Dog Mountain (about 2.5 miles and 2500ft of gain), and then spend the afternoon cutting back vegetation and fixing the walking surface of the trail. It'll be (hard) good times, and you can have dinner from a beautiful spot to take in the sinking sun.

Hiking Information

Expect a steep, round-trip hike of about 5 miles to the work area.

Schedule

12:55 PM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine<br> 1:00 PM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site<br> Afternoon: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day<br> 5:00 (or so) PM: Dinner on the trail<br> Evening: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work<br> 8:30 PM: The end! Go home and stretch out those muscles!<br> *Note due to the more strenuous than typical hike for a WTA event we will prioritize keeping our group together and safe even if that means returning later than our traditional cut off time (no volunteer left behind!)

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

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need<br> Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 8 hours on uneven terrain<br> Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18

What to Wear

Required:

• Functional AND fully charged headlamp
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes
• Work gloves
• Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
• Long pants

Recommended:

• Sturdy work or hiking boots
• Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

• Personal hand sanitizer if desired
• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water
• Rain jacket and pants
• Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
• A pack to carry your personal gear
• A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Visit this link for details:

WTA Event

Please sign-up with Mazamas and once you’re accepted, also with WTA:

WTA Signup Link